Freight Nation: A Trucking Podcast

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.
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 Jolly, founder of The Freight Coach and freight brokerage owner.
Join them as they explore:

• Chris's family legacy in trucking
• The journey from broker to industry coach
• Building authentic carrier relationships
• The role of technology in modern brokerage
• Creating sustainable business practices
• The importance of discipline over motivation

Chris Jolly is the founder of The Freight Coach, a leading educational platform in the transportation industry, and operates his own freight brokerage. Coming from a multi-generational trucking family, Chris has created over 1,000 pieces of educational content for the freight industry and focuses on building authentic relationships between brokers and carriers. His approach combines traditional industry values with modern business practices, emphasizing the importance of integrity and sustained discipline in achieving success.

Episode Highlights:
[00:04:16] Chris reveals his deep roots in the transportation industry, sharing how his family's involvement spans generations - from his great-grandparents' 1930s trucking company in Iowa to his father's 40-year career as an owner-operator running Minneapolis to the Bronx routes, illustrating the rich heritage that shaped his understanding of the industry.
[00:05:09] In a pivotal career moment, Chris describes his transition during the onset of COVID-19, when he resigned from his job with plans to work in asset-based operations, only to find himself pivoting to create The Freight Coach platform, demonstrating how adversity can lead to unexpected opportunities in the freight industry.
[00:15:47] Chris candidly discusses his evolution from being a "prototypical broker that lied about everything" to becoming an advocate for industry improvement, emphasizing the importance of honest communication and authentic relationships in creating sustainable success in freight brokerage.
[00:28:33] Addressing the role of technology in modern brokerage, Chris challenges the common assumption that extensive tech stacks are necessary for success, arguing that basic tools like a TMS and load board access are sufficient for starting out, with the emphasis being on relationship-building rather than technological sophistication.
[00:34:35] Chris shares his practical approach to carrier relationships, revealing that 90% of his company's container moves are handled by just three trucking companies, emphasizing the value of building deep, reliable carrier partnerships over transactional relationships.
[00:37:28] In the closing segment, Chris delivers a powerful message about the difference between motivation and discipline, arguing that cultivating discipline through consistent daily actions is more valuable than relying on fluctuating motivation for sustained success in the 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 Steve Cox, the President of Steam Logistics. 
Join them as they discuss:

• Steve’s career journey 
• Creating a successful team dynamic
• The evolution and success of Steam Logistics
• The value of collaboration 
• The significance of leadership style

Steve is the President of Steam Logistics, which began in 2012, focusing solely on international freight forwarding and customs brokerage, but later expanded into Drayage and Domestic Transportation. Today, Steam is one of the fastest growing 3PLs in the US, delivering integrated logistics solutions across International, Intermodal, and Domestic modes. It serves over 4,500 customers globally, in industries such as building products, healthcare, furniture, and consumer products. Steve has over 25 years of experience in the industry, and used to serve as EVP for Access America Transport. 
Episode Highlights:
[02:02 - 02:35] Steve highlights the value of relationships within the competitive freight industry. He notes that, despite rivalry, industry leaders frequently share insights and support each other. Steve has cultivated friendships with peers at major companies like TQL, finding that open communication helps address shared challenges. This collaborative spirit, he believes, is essential to thriving in the expansive $1 trillion freight industry, where opportunities are abundant. Steve encourages others to recognize that building connections, even with competitors, can enhance industry-wide knowledge and ultimately contribute to everyone's success.
[26:27 - 29:33] Steve reflects on the challenges he faced while transitioning from Access America to Steam Logistics, revealing a significant learning curve in freight forwarding. He initially believed that selling freight forwarding would be straightforward, but he quickly realized the complexities involved, stating, "Nobody's starting freight forwarders." Despite these difficulties, Steve emphasizes his relentless drive for growth, noting that during his six years at Access, they consistently exceeded their monthly sales records. He highlights the importance of persistence and adapting to the unique demands of the logistics industry, acknowledging that the initial years at Steam were challenging and marked by setbacks. 
[43:20 - 44:31] Reflecting on a challenging market downturn, Steve underscores the critical need to adapt swiftly. He shares how his team faced tough decisions about downsizing and repositioning to safeguard the company's stability. Recognizing and acting on change—even when it entails difficult personnel decisions—ensures resilience during adverse times. In 2023, Steve’s team opted for a gradual transition instead of abrupt layoffs, choosing a “softer landing” approach that, while initially impacting profitability, prioritized long-term employee and company welfare. Leaders who pivot decisively yet compassionately can protect both the business and their teams in volatile environments.
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 Melanie Patterson, founder and Managing Director of Integrity Global Logistics. 
Join them as they explore: 

• Opportunities in government contracting
• Melianie’s career journey
• Building strong relationships in business
• The role of mentorship in the industry
• Navigating competitive markets through adaptability 

Melanie Patterson is the founder and Managing Director of Integrity Global Logistics (IGL), which solves public and private sector customers' bottlenecks in transportation and logistics. IGL is a minority women-owned business that highlights diversity and inclusion, improvement projects including advancement in transportation and logistics needs globally, new growth initiatives with the best cost value, and optimizing solutions with IGL services. Melanie is also the founder of the Team Integrity Knowledge Center, which fosters healthy mentee-mentor relationships by providing tools and resources to increase an entrepreneur's business success. 

Episode Highlights:
[10:37] With the transportation industry being heavily regulated and increasingly complex, Melanie identifies the education and support of drivers as critical to maintaining safety and efficiency. Her insights reveal that beyond logistical oversight, fleet owners must prioritize training and safety protocols, as well as the day-to-day operational knowledge that keeps drivers safe and effective on the road. She recommends regular educational initiatives and close communication with drivers to ensure they are informed on evolving regulations and safety standards. This approach not only keeps drivers compliant but also reinforces their value within the organization, helping to build a culture of accountability and mutual respect.
[11:58] Melanie says that, for Integrity Global Logistics, strategically trending data and leveraging government insights have been pivotal in navigating business growth and adaptation. As the primary awardee for Illinois’ full emergency management, they managed critical supplies like hospital beds and respirators, gaining early visibility into market needs before they reached the public. This insight allowed Melanie and her team to forecast demands accurately and make informed inventory decisions. Working with the government as a major client also enabled IGL to diversify beyond refrigerated transport into additional service lines like flatbed and carrier services, building resilience and adaptability across multiple business verticals.
[16:39] Entering government contracting requires precise focus and execution, especially in identifying and honing your niche within the transportation sector. The government offers a reliable, recession-proof client base that can be invaluable for business growth and resilience. To succeed, it’s essential to establish a strong service foundation and understand the unique opportunities government contracts provide, such as options for charter, rail, and air freight. While the government can be a challenging client to secure, it offers long-term stability and financial security, with extensive support for operational costs and organizational needs. For small businesses looking to scale, this foundation can be transformative. 
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 Liz Wayne, founder and CEO of Able Transport Solutions INC.
Join them as they discuss:

• Liz's unexpected entry into the trucking industry
• Her journey from receptionist to business owner
• The challenges of starting and scaling a freight brokerage
• Insights on leadership and empowering employees
• The importance of continuous learning and adaptability
• Liz's perspective on women in logistics and the industry's evolving culture

Liz Wayne is the Founder and CEO of Able Transport Solutions INC, a freight brokerage specializing in flatbed, heavy haul, and expedited shipping. Starting her career as a single mom at 18, Liz worked her way up through various roles in the trucking industry before founding Able Transport in 2014. Her company has since grown to be a respected player in the logistics field, with plans to double in size over the next three years.
Episode Highlights:
[00:02:49 - 00:05:06] Liz shares how she "stumbled" into the trucking industry 23 years ago. As a young single mother preparing for college, she needed a job with office hours that aligned with daycare availability. She applied for office jobs and landed a position as a receptionist at a local trucking company. Initially viewing it as a temporary role, Liz was surprised by the challenges and problem-solving opportunities the industry presented. Her curiosity and willingness to help others led her to learn about various aspects of the business, setting the foundation for her career in logistics.
[00:24:20 - 00:26:59] Liz recounts a pivotal moment in her entrepreneurial journey that highlighted the need for growth and delegation. In her first year of business, while operating as a sole proprietor, Liz received a business call just 45 minutes after giving birth to her daughter. This experience made her realize the unsustainability of handling everything alone and prompted her to hire employees. However, she admits that delegating was initially challenging due to her high expectations for customer and carrier experiences, as well as her tendency to be a "control freak" in the early days of the business.
[00:29:12 - 00:31:17] Discussing growth strategies, Liz emphasizes the importance of long-term thinking and flexibility in decision-making. As the sole shareholder of Able Transport, she has been able to maintain a long-term perspective, focusing on positioning the company for market upswings rather than just the next 90 days. Liz also shares a valuable lesson about the importance of setting up systems and structures correctly from the beginning. She's currently leading a major reorganization of her company, a process that has been challenging and time-consuming. She advises other entrepreneurs to think about scalability from day one, as it's more difficult to "erase and rewrite" than to start with the right foundation.
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 Jay Gustafson, Executive Vice President of Brokerage Operations at Echo Global Logistics.
Join them as they discuss:

• Jay's journey from culinary arts to freight brokerage
• The importance of internships and early career experiences
• Building and scaling a brokerage operation
• The role of technology in modern freight management
• Balancing relationships and technology in the industry
• Advice for professionals in the logistics field

Jay Gustafson is the Executive Vice President of Brokerage Operations at Echo Global Logistics, a leading provider of technology-enabled transportation management services. With a background in creative advertising and over 15 years of experience in the logistics industry, Jay brings a unique perspective to the world of freight brokerage. He has played a crucial role in Echo's growth, particularly in developing their truckload division and leading their digital transformation efforts.
Episode Highlights:
[10:40 - 16:18] Jay discusses his early career aspirations and how he transitioned from studying creative advertising to entering the freight brokerage industry. He explains how an internship at AFN Logistics exposed him to the transportation sector, leading him to fall in love with the industry's scale and dynamic nature. This experience highlights the importance of internships in shaping career paths and gaining hands-on industry knowledge.
[28:57 - 35:12] Jay recounts his experience joining Echo Global Logistics in 2008 to help build out their truckload division. He emphasizes the power of technology in the industry, noting how Echo had already automated much of the LTL (Less Than Truckload) shipment lifecycle. This exposure to automation and efficiency in the LTL space inspired Jay to think about how similar processes could be applied to the truckload arena, showcasing the importance of cross-functional learning in logistics.
[47:51 - 48:50] Jay shares insights on building and scaling a brokerage operation, emphasizing the importance of clear processes and strong training programs. He discusses the need for an intimate understanding of both the "happy path" and exception scenarios in freight management. Jay also highlights the value of mentorship programs and real-world exposure in training new employees, underscoring the importance of practical experience in an industry where academia and reality can differ significantly.
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 Dan Doran, Director of Business Development for Diamond Transportation System Inc. 
Join them as they discuss: 

• Dan’s career journey 
• Navigating the challenges of industry deregulation
• Leading significant growth
• Embracing modernization
• How to build strong relationships
• The importance of networking

Dan Doran comes from a third-generation trucking family and has led several successful trucking companies, including Ace Doran Hauling and Rigging, C&G Transportation. He is now Director of Business Development for Diamond Transportation System Inc, where he is responsible for growth through customer additions, owner operator recruitment, and freight agent solicitation with a primary focus on the flatbed market.

Episode Highlights:
[10:40 - 16:18] Dan discusses the impact of deregulation in the trucking industry, a shift that transformed operational models. He explains how prior to deregulation, companies had to apply for transportation authorities through the Interstate Commerce Commission (ICC), which involved substantial expenses and procedural hurdles. Deregulation simplified this process, allowing carriers to obtain state authority with far less effort and cost. However, this shift also devalued previously expensive assets, such as authority rights, fundamentally changing the financial landscape for many trucking companies.
[28:57 - 35:12] Dan discusses how early adoption of technology, including a computerized system, played a vital role in streamlining operations at his organization. While the implementation of imaging and digital processes initially met resistance, it ultimately allowed the company to become more efficient, handling the same workload with fewer people. Although this modernization didn’t directly fuel business growth, it significantly improved operational efficiency, contributing indirectly to the company's success. This shift toward more decentralized and automated freight brokerage helped the company stay competitive in an evolving industry. 
[47:51 - 48:50] Dan stresses the critical role of networking and personal relationships in the business world, particularly for younger professionals who might lean towards a more remote or office-centric approach. He observes that many young individuals are becoming increasingly comfortable completing their tasks without engaging in face-to-face interactions. While he understands the challenges posed by busy family lives and dual-income households, he cautions against neglecting the personal connections that can arise from networking. Doran believes these relationships are not just beneficial but essential for career growth and success. He encourages professionals to prioritize networking opportunities, reminding them that building trust and rapport with others can lead to lasting partnerships and new opportunities in 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 Kevin Rutherford of LetsTruck and Henry Albert of Albert Transport. 
Join them as they discuss:

• Strategies for increasing profitability
• Building relationships
• Controlling costs
• Maximizing fuel mileage
• Understanding the profitability of each load

Kevin Rutherford is the owner of LetsTruck, who provide a wide range of solutions for the challenges facing drivers. He hosts a radio show about trucking on SiriusXM satellite radio, and is a Nutritional Therapy Practitioner at Destination Health. Before this, Kevin was a small fleet owner for over twenty-two years. 
Henry Albert has been the President of Albert Transport for over twenty-eight years; Albert Transport is an active carrier in Huntersville, North Carolina. He is involved with Trucker Buddy and is currently on the board of directors. In 2007, Overdrive Magazine recognized Henry as Trucker of the Year. 

Episode Highlights:
[06:43 - 08:59] - Henry emphasizes the importance of optimizing basic truck configurations for fuel efficiency. He illustrates this by recounting a case where fleet trucks had their fifth wheels pulled all the way back, signaling a lack of understanding about its impact on fuel mileage. He observed that despite having advanced aerodynamic trucks and optimized idle settings, the drivers were running air conditioning and refrigerators continuously, leading to unnecessary fuel consumption. Albert underscores that even with the best equipment, not using it correctly can hinder operational efficiency, likening it to having a top-quality hammer but failing to use it properly.
[23:42 - 26:49] - Henry highlights the critical importance of measuring every aspect of one's operation to maintain profitability. He recalls a time when he aimed to surpass the average rate per mile of a major competitor, which was $1.73, by meticulously tracking each load, including deadhead miles. His experience underscores that measuring costs and profits—similar to how valuable commodities like gold and diamonds are tracked—is essential for making informed decisions and achieving financial success in trucking. He argues that everything of worth must be measured to understand and optimize profitability.
[26:49 - 28:44] - Kevin emphasizes that small owner-operators have significant advantages over large fleets, particularly in terms of flexibility and cost control. He explains that unlike big carriers with thin profit margins and extensive overhead, owner-operators can adapt quickly to changes, such as adjusting driving speed or managing fuel costs. This agility allows single-truck operators to make strategic decisions that can be implemented immediately, providing a competitive edge that larger fleets often cannot match. 
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 Craig Fuller, founder and CEO of FreightWaves. 
Join them as they discuss: 

• Craig’s background in the trucking industry
• How Craig created FreightWaves
• The need for real-time information in the industry
• The creation of the Sonar data platform
• Craig's ventures into other industries
• Advice for entrepreneurs

Craig Fuller is the founder and CEO of FreightWaves, the leading FreightIntel provider, who offer current digital intelligence and context to the freight community on a central platform. FreightWaves.com, the company's news site, is the leading provider of news and commentary for the space, serving up over 2.5M pageviews a month and over 1.5B monthly impressions. Craig is also the Chief Executive Officer of Firecrown, the largest media platform in aviation, marine, and supply chain.
Episode Highlights:
[21:36 - 24:20] Craig attributes his deep understanding of the trucking industry to his upbringing, where his father, though reserved, shared extensive industry knowledge during long road trips. Growing up in a family deeply connected to trucking across three generations, Craig highlights how much of the industry's knowledge is "tribal" and passed down through experience. He expresses sadness that this rich, experiential knowledge may not be transferred to the next generation in the same way, as his children might not inherit the same intimate connection with the industry.
[28:30 - 34:22] FreightWaves was born out of necessity when Craig realized traditional PR firms found it difficult to market the complex futures concept. After being advised to produce their own content, FreightWaves began writing industry-specific news that diverged from the traditional press-release-driven reporting. This move to provide real-time, authentic insights—coupled with Craig’s deep industry experience—helped differentiate FreightWaves as a media company and drove its growth. Their content catered to freight brokers and tech-focused audiences, an underserved market at the time.
[44:40 - 49:46] Craig’s vision was to create a platform that treats freight like a commodity, similar to oil or gold, and provides real-time data and insights, much like Bloomberg’s model. This led to the development of Sonar, FreightWaves' data platform, designed to offer executive-level analysis rather than daily trading tools. Although initially intended for price analysts and executives, Sonar's sophisticated features have found success on trading floors, complementing rather than replacing existing tools like Truck Stop. Sonar provides detailed market insights and data intelligence, while Truck Stop focuses on ease of use for daily operations. 
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 Shannon Currier, the Director of Philanthropy at the St. Christopher Truckers Relief Fund.
Join them as they discuss: 

• St. Christopher Truckers Relief Fund: their mission, the assistance they provide, and the positive impact they have on drivers’ lives
• Driver health and wellness
• Personal stories 
• How to help
• Philanthropy in the trucking industry

Shannon Currier is Director of Philanthropy at St. Christopher Truckers Relief Fund, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting truck drivers in need. She has cultivated relationships with top industry leaders and key stakeholders, secured strategic partnerships with Fortune 500 companies, increased organization revenue by 24% average year-over-year, and secured numerous major gifts of $100,000, and significant contributions varying from $5,000 to $75,000 from individuals, corporations, and foundations. Before this, Shannon was Children’s Ministry Director for West Park Baptist Church.

Episode Highlights:
12:12 - 19:48 - St. Christopher Truckers Relief Fund, named after the patron saint of safe travels, was established to provide short-term financial relief to truck drivers facing health-related setbacks that affect their ability to work. The fund addresses urgent needs like medical expenses that threaten drivers’ livelihoods. Over time, the organization has expanded its focus to include health and wellness programs aimed at preventing long-term health issues common among drivers. These initiatives are developed with input from a driver council and are designed to support drivers in making healthier lifestyle choices, ultimately enhancing their quality of life and longevity in the profession.
23:17 - 26:05 - Shannon outlines the focused support provided by the St. Christopher Fund, emphasizing their strategy of addressing high-priority expenses for truck drivers. The fund covers essential costs such as household expenses, rent or mortgage, utility bills, and vehicle payments, but does not extend to medical bills due to their high costs. Assistance is provided for up to a couple of months to help drivers maintain stability. Applications are processed by having drivers submit their bills directly, which ensures that the funds are used as intended and allows for accountability to donors. This method also helps alleviate immediate financial pressures for drivers facing crises.
29:58 - 39:52 - Shannon shares impactful stories showcasing the effectiveness of the St. Christopher Fund's programs. Clarence Jackson's experience highlights the financial relief provided after severe medical issues, with the fund covering rent and essential expenses, which profoundly affected his faith in the industry's support. Danny Lawson's journey with the "Rigs Without Cigs" program illustrates the positive outcomes of health and wellness initiatives, including smoking cessation and ongoing healthy habits training. These stories not only underscore the fund's commitment to driver well-being but also inspire recipients to advocate for and contribute back to the organization, furthering its mission.
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