The Freight Coach Podcast

What does it take to keep a 120-year-old produce distributor thriving in today's fast-paced logistics world? Let's welcome our first guest of the week, Bill Loupée of Ben B. Schwartz and Sons, to talk about how this Detroit-based company has built its reputation by focusing on logistics (not farming) and how that mindset has fueled their success across small retailers, food service companies, and national chains!

We dive into why owning their fleet gives them a competitive edge in time-sensitive produce deliveries, how proactive communication turns potential service failures into trust-building moments, and how the company's innovation push, especially around food waste reduction and cold chain traceability, is setting the tone for the future of produce logistics!

About Bill Loupée

As COO at Ben B. Schwartz, a Detroit-based wholesale distributor of fresh produce serving the Midwest, Bill is responsible for establishing and maintaining grower partnerships, technology initiatives, logistics, and implementing company strategy. Prior to Ben B. Schwartz, Bill spent over a decade in the supply chain field with Coyote Logistics (Chicago) and Sonwil Logistics (Buffalo). Bill holds a master's degree from Michigan State University in Logistics, Materials, and Supply Chain Management, is a licensed US Customs Broker, and is an active member of the International Fresh Produce Association's US policy council.

📊📉 Don't miss out on the latest market trends by subscribing to your TOP Transportation Morning Show! 🌎

🎬🎯 #TheFreightCoach Morning Show is LIVE every weekday at 10:30 AM CST to break down transportation industry headlines! Mark your calendars!

To Find Out More About My Freight Services

Visit https://freightcoachlogistics.com/

🤝 Shoutout to my sponsors!👇

• SPI Logistics | https://spi3pl.com/
• Revenova | https://revenova.com/freightcoach/
• NMFTA | https://nmfta.org/

Help Sgt. Murphy's Kids Soar: A Fallen Hero: https://www.gofundme.com/f/in-memory-of-sgt-murphy-support-his-children

Donate to support Stacy and her family: https://tinyurl.com/36xmxcmr

🚀🔥 To sign up for my Newsletter, go to http://eepurl.com/iNoHco, get in touch with me through the social media channels below, and subscribe to my YouTube Channel!👇

▶️ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCjrL70IEnCfDkNaiYMar3jw

📷 https://www.instagram.com/thefreightcoach/

🕊️ https://twitter.com/thefr8coach

💼 https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-jolly-a183aa6a/

We're now on the second day of 2025 TIA Technovations, and we have Carly Gunby from Transfix back on the show to share the winning strategies in freight brokerage!

Carly talks about how automation is changing the game for brokers who want to scale smarter and free up time for customer relationships, how dynamic pricing engines forecast margin shifts, the significance of data-driven insights for making sharper pricing decisions in real time, and why balancing automation with human judgment is critical for long-term success.

This discussion is packed with insights on how to use technology without losing the human touch that makes this industry thrive, so tune in to stay competitive in a constantly changing market!

About Carly Gunby

Carly is a highly skilled business professional with over a decade of experience in the transportation and logistics industry. Carly began her career at Crowley Maritime, where she spent eight years in varying positions selling their full suite of supply chain offerings. She eventually landed in their truck brokerage, building the inside sales team. During her time at Crowley, she played a critical role in driving growth and expanding the company's footprint across the United States.

Currently serving as the Vice President of Revenue at Transfix, Carly is responsible for developing and implementing strategies to drive revenue growth and improve the company's overall sales performance. Her expertise in sales and business development has been instrumental in helping Transfix achieve significant growth and establish itself as a leader in the transportation and logistics industry.

In addition to her professional pursuits, Carly is a proud soccer mom who coaches for her daughters' team in her spare time. She is also an active volunteer, dedicating her spare time to the finance committee of her church. Carly's commitment to giving back to her community is a testament to her dedication to making a positive impact in the world around her.

Carly is highly respected and regarded within the transportation and logistics industry for her exceptional leadership, strategic thinking, and commitment to driving growth and success. Her unwavering dedication to her profession and community has earned her a reputation as a highly accomplished and respected business leader.

Connect with Carly

• Website: https://transfix.io/
• Email: [email protected]
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carlygunby/

📊📉 Don't miss out on the latest market trends by subscribing to your TOP Transportation Morning Show! 🌎

🎬🎯 #TheFreightCoach Morning Show is LIVE every weekday at 10:30 AM CST to break down transportation industry headlines! Mark your calendars!

To Find Out More About My Freight Services

Visit https://freightcoachlogistics.com/

🤝 Shoutout to my sponsors!👇

• SPI Logistics | https://spi3pl.com/
• Revenova | https://revenova.com/freightcoach/
• NMFTA | https://nmfta.org/

Help Sgt. Murphy's Kids Soar: A Fallen Hero: https://www.gofundme.com/f/in-memory-of-sgt-murphy-support-his-children

Donate to support Stacy and her family: https://tinyurl.com/36xmxcmr

🚀🔥 To sign up for my Newsletter, go to http://eepurl.com/iNoHco, get in touch with me through the social media channels below, and subscribe to my YouTube Channel!👇

▶️ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCjrL70IEnCfDkNaiYMar3jw

📷 https://www.instagram.com/thefreightcoach/

🕊️ https://twitter.com/thefr8coach

💼 https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-jolly-a183aa6a/

Ever wonder how freight brokers can stay ahead in today's fast-moving tech landscape without burning cash on the wrong tools? Don't miss out on our episode with Sam Haynes from Revenova and James Lemon from SPI Logistics, to share what it really takes to build a smart, sustainable tech strategy in freight!

We break down how to vet technology before signing long-term contracts, why pilot projects are non-negotiable, and how customer feedback should drive every product roadmap.

James shares practical tips on balancing the build vs. buy decision and keeping operations lean by auditing tech expenses, while Sam gives insight into how Revenova captures customer input to shape features and partner integrations, creating tools that actually solve real problems.

No matter how advanced AI gets, personal communication and trust still win deals. If you're into blending tech efficiency with human connection in your brokerage, this is the right episode for you!

📊📉 Don't miss out on the latest market trends by subscribing to your TOP Transportation Morning Show! 🌎

🎬🎯 #TheFreightCoach Morning Show is LIVE every weekday at 10:30 AM CST to break down transportation industry headlines! Mark your calendars!

To Find Out More About My Freight Services

Visit https://freightcoachlogistics.com/

🤝 Shoutout to my sponsors!👇

• SPI Logistics | https://spi3pl.com/
• Revenova | https://revenova.com/freightcoach/
• NMFTA | https://nmfta.org/

Help Sgt. Murphy's Kids Soar: A Fallen Hero: https://www.gofundme.com/f/in-memory-of-sgt-murphy-support-his-children

Donate to support Stacy and her family: https://tinyurl.com/36xmxcmr

🚀🔥 To sign up for my Newsletter, go to http://eepurl.com/iNoHco, get in touch with me through the social media channels below, and subscribe to my YouTube Channel!👇

▶️ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCjrL70IEnCfDkNaiYMar3jw

📷 https://www.instagram.com/thefreightcoach/

🕊️ https://twitter.com/thefr8coach

💼 https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-jolly-a183aa6a/

Today, Greg Finnerty from Concept Logistics is back to let us know what real, sustainable growth looks like in a volatile market and the importance of mastering the basics with authenticity and discipline in freight!

We dig into how self-reflection, process discipline, and consistent cold calling can build predictable growth, while authentic, trust-based relationships keep your business grounded when the market gets noisy, why tech and automation only work when paired with strong processes and accountability, and how authentic leadership, focused on people, not just profits, creates a culture that lasts.

About Greg Finnerty

As Vice President of Operations at Concept Logistics, I focus on driving innovation while maintaining the core values of relationships and trust in the freight brokerage industry. With over 30 years of industry experience, our team is committed to delivering reliable and personalized logistics solutions.

We streamline operations by integrating cutting-edge technology such as Tai TMS and other tech partners, enabling our reps to shift from transactional processes to building deeper, more meaningful relationships with carriers. Our goal is not just automation, but elevation—creating an efficient, relationship-driven environment where technology supports, but never replaces the human element.

At Concept, we believe in leveraging data-driven insights to optimize capacity allocation, while maintaining compliance and operational integrity. This balance between innovation and strong personal connections enables us to provide differentiated service and sustained growth for our carriers and shippers.

Connect with Greg

• Website: https://conceptlogistics.com/
• Email: [email protected]
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/greg-finnerty-9942a52b/

📊📉 Don't miss out on the latest market trends by subscribing to your TOP Transportation Morning Show! 🌎

🎬🎯 #TheFreightCoach Morning Show is LIVE every weekday at 10:30 AM CST to break down transportation industry headlines! Mark your calendars!

To Find Out More About My Freight Services

Visit https://freightcoachlogistics.com/

🤝 Shoutout to my sponsors!👇

• SPI Logistics | https://spi3pl.com/
• Revenova | https://revenova.com/freightcoach/
• NMFTA | https://nmfta.org/

Help Sgt. Murphy's Kids Soar: A Fallen Hero: https://www.gofundme.com/f/in-memory-of-sgt-murphy-support-his-children

Donate to support Stacy and her family: https://tinyurl.com/36xmxcmr

🚀🔥 To sign up for my Newsletter, go to http://eepurl.com/iNoHco, get in touch with me through the social media channels below, and subscribe to my YouTube Channel!👇

▶️ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCjrL70IEnCfDkNaiYMar3jw

📷 https://www.instagram.com/thefreightcoach/

🕊️ https://twitter.com/thefr8coach

💼 https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-jolly-a183aa6a/

Are you seeing more job seekers fighting for fewer roles these days? How will you stand out or make the right career move in a job market? Let's hear from today's guest, Charlie Saffro of CS Recruiting, explaining the real condition of the job market!

Charlie covers how "job hugging" has become the new normal for professionals, how compensation has shifted from inflated pandemic packages to more conservative and growth-focused offers, the reality of the freight agent model, where independence can mean big rewards but comes with steep costs and serious hustle, and the rising importance of soft skills and authentic personal branding on LinkedIn.

About Charlie Saffro

Charlie is the Founder and CEO of CS Recruiting, a leading executive search firm in logistics, transportation, and supply chain. With 20+ years of experience, she's helped companies of all sizes—from Fortune 50s to emerging 3PLs—build strong teams and lasting cultures. A passionate advocate for human-centered leadership, Charlie blends her recruiting expertise with a focus on connection, mindfulness, and purpose at work.

Connect with Charlie

• Website: https://www.cs-recruiting.com/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/cs-recruiting-llc/ / https://www.linkedin.com/in/charliesaffro/

📊📉 Don't miss out on the latest market trends by subscribing to your TOP Transportation Morning Show! 🌎

🎬🎯 #TheFreightCoach Morning Show is LIVE every weekday at 10:30 AM CST to break down transportation industry headlines! Mark your calendars!

To Find Out More About My Freight Services

Visit https://freightcoachlogistics.com/

🤝 Shoutout to my sponsors!👇

• SPI Logistics | https://spi3pl.com/
• Revenova | https://revenova.com/freightcoach/
• NMFTA | https://nmfta.org/

Help Sgt. Murphy's Kids Soar: A Fallen Hero: https://www.gofundme.com/f/in-memory-of-sgt-murphy-support-his-children

Donate to support Stacy and her family: https://tinyurl.com/36xmxcmr

🚀🔥 To sign up for my Newsletter, go to http://eepurl.com/iNoHco, get in touch with me through the social media channels below, and subscribe to my YouTube Channel!👇

▶️ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCjrL70IEnCfDkNaiYMar3jw

📷 https://www.instagram.com/thefreightcoach/

🕊️ https://twitter.com/thefr8coach

💼 https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-jolly-a183aa6a/

In this episode, Eileen Dabrowski is back to discuss how training and development can be your strongest growth lever in today's volatile freight market!

We talk about why investing in your people, refining your processes, and using technology with intention builds long-term stability, stronger relationships, and serious ROI. From vetting carriers faster and handling new regulations, to rolling out tech the right way and tightening your sales strategy, this conversation hits every angle of sustainable growth in logistics.

Whether you're a broker, shipper, or carrier, you'll walk away knowing that consistent training, empathy-driven leadership, and disciplined follow-up aren't "soft skills"—they're what separate the survivors from the ones who don't make it!

About Eileen Dabrowski

Eileen has a PhD, ABD from the University of South Florida in Curriculum & Instruction and is a leader and member of the Werner Enterprises Learning & Development Team. Eileen has been in the transportation/logistics industry since 2016 and oversees the development and facilitation of sales and account management enterprise-wide training programs, new employee onboarding, leadership development, employee culture, morale, and retention. She has a passion for company philanthropy initiatives and works hard to maintain and improve employee culture and morale to drive workforce efficiency and employee satisfaction.

Eileen serves the Chair of the TMSA DEI Task Force and is on the TMSA BOD, as well as the Chair of the TIA Programs Committee and is a proud member of the TIA Foundations Board. Outside of work, Eileen lives with her spouse and 4 dogs in Tampa and enjoys traveling, staying active, and volunteering in the community. Running, boxing, lifting weights, surfing, and reading are some of Eileen's favorite self-care activities.

Connect with Eileen

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eileen-dabrowski-a090a7141/
• Email: [email protected]

📊📉 Don't miss out on the latest market trends by subscribing to your TOP Transportation Morning Show! 🌎

🎬🎯 #TheFreightCoach Morning Show is LIVE every weekday at 10:30 AM CST to break down transportation industry headlines! Mark your calendars!

To Find Out More About My Freight Services

Visit https://freightcoachlogistics.com/

🤝 Shoutout to my sponsors!👇

• SPI Logistics | https://spi3pl.com/
• Revenova | https://revenova.com/freightcoach/
• NMFTA | https://nmfta.org/

Help Sgt. Murphy's Kids Soar: A Fallen Hero: https://www.gofundme.com/f/in-memory-of-sgt-murphy-support-his-children

Donate to support Stacy and her family: https://tinyurl.com/36xmxcmr

🚀🔥 To sign up for my Newsletter, go to http://eepurl.com/iNoHco, get in touch with me through the social media channels below, and subscribe to my YouTube Channel!👇

▶️ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCjrL70IEnCfDkNaiYMar3jw

📷 https://www.instagram.com/thefreightcoach/

🕊️ https://twitter.com/thefr8coach

💼 https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-jolly-a183aa6a/

Is the freight market really collapsing, or are we just getting caught up in the noise? Tune in to this week's last episode with Sunny Sharma as we cut through the negativity flooding social media and talk real freight business!

We break down what's actually happening in the market, from the so-called "capacity purge" to AI's impact on operations and jobs, and efficiencies, why consistent CDL standards are long overdue, and how cybersecurity is now a non-negotiable part of doing business.

Whether you're a broker, carrier, or owner-operator, this episode is all about staying accountable, staying sharp, and taking charge of what's in front of you in the freight world today!

Resources / References:

• https://www.freightwaves.com/news/largest-capacity-purge-in-history-coming
• https://www.ttnews.com/articles/ch-robinson-ai-stock-surge

Connect with Sunny

• Website: https://www.zemsinc.com/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sunny-sharma-zemsinc/

📊📉 Don't miss out on the latest market trends by subscribing to your TOP Transportation Morning Show! 🌎

🎬🎯 #TheFreightCoach Morning Show is LIVE every weekday at 10:30 AM CST to break down transportation industry headlines! Mark your calendars!

To Find Out More About My Freight Services

Visit https://freightcoachlogistics.com/

🤝 Shoutout to my sponsors!👇

• Denim | https://info.denim.com/chrisjolly
• SPI Logistics | https://spi3pl.com/
• Revenova | https://revenova.com/freightcoach/
• NMFTA | https://nmfta.org/

Help Sgt. Murphy's Kids Soar: A Fallen Hero: https://www.gofundme.com/f/in-memory-of-sgt-murphy-support-his-children

Donate to support Stacy and her family: https://tinyurl.com/36xmxcmr

🚀🔥 To sign up for my Newsletter, go to http://eepurl.com/iNoHco, get in touch with me through the social media channels below, and subscribe to my YouTube Channel!👇

▶️ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCjrL70IEnCfDkNaiYMar3jw

📷 https://www.instagram.com/thefreightcoach/

🕊️ https://twitter.com/thefr8coach

💼 https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-jolly-a183aa6a/

What if thieves could bypass your tracking system without you even knowing? Our returning guest, Curtis Spencer of Bloodhound Tracking Device, tells us how their covert tracking units can help avoid detection, blending right into containers to outsmart organized crime and cybercriminals!

These devices go beyond digital tracking; they capture tamper photos, trigger alarms, and provide physical proof for law enforcement, bridging the gap between cyber and physical freight protection.

Curtis also shared how Bloodhound's triple communication system (cellular, satellite, and IoT mesh) ensures global coverage and zero data loss, even when hackers strike. With long battery life, advanced sensors for temperature, humidity, and shock monitoring, and bank-level data encryption, this tech isn't just tracking but also redefining supply chain security. If you care about protecting freight from theft, damage, or false claims, this conversation will show you how the next generation of logistics tech is getting it done!

📊📉 Don't miss out on the latest market trends by subscribing to your TOP Transportation Morning Show! 🌎

🎬🎯 #TheFreightCoach Morning Show is LIVE every weekday at 10:30 AM CST to break down transportation industry headlines! Mark your calendars!

To Find Out More About My Freight Services

Visit https://freightcoachlogistics.com/

🤝 Shoutout to my sponsors!👇

• Denim | https://info.denim.com/chrisjolly
• SPI Logistics | https://spi3pl.com/
• Revenova | https://revenova.com/freightcoach/
• NMFTA | https://nmfta.org/

Help Sgt. Murphy's Kids Soar: A Fallen Hero: https://www.gofundme.com/f/in-memory-of-sgt-murphy-support-his-children

Donate to support Stacy and her family: https://tinyurl.com/36xmxcmr

🚀🔥 To sign up for my Newsletter, go to http://eepurl.com/iNoHco, get in touch with me through the social media channels below, and subscribe to my YouTube Channel!👇

▶️ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCjrL70IEnCfDkNaiYMar3jw

📷 https://www.instagram.com/thefreightcoach/

🕊️ https://twitter.com/thefr8coach

💼 https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-jolly-a183aa6a/

In this episode, hear what's really happening across freight, capacity, and the broader logistics landscape, and find out if automation and AI are reshaping jobs faster!

I also discuss Amazon and UPS cutting tens of thousands of jobs and the involvement of automation and AI on this matter, the federal pressure on California's CDL standards, and, with cybersecurity threats rising, I share why every freight company needs to vet tech vendors like their business depends on it. Through it all, the message stays the same: build your pipeline, serve your customers, and stay focused on long-term growth.

References / Resources

• https://www.ttnews.com/articles/amazon-layoff-wave-2025
• https://www.usatoday.com/story/money/2025/10/28/ups-jobs-worker-layoffs-earnings-report/86951257007/
• https://www.ttnews.com/articles/duffy-pressure-california-crash

📊📉 Don't miss out on the latest market trends by subscribing to your TOP Transportation Morning Show! 🌎

🎬🎯 #TheFreightCoach Morning Show is LIVE every weekday at 10:30 AM CST to break down transportation industry headlines! Mark your calendars!

To Find Out More About My Freight Services

Visit https://freightcoachlogistics.com/

🤝 Shoutout to my sponsors!👇

• Denim | https://info.denim.com/chrisjolly
• SPI Logistics | https://spi3pl.com/
• Revenova | https://revenova.com/freightcoach/
• NMFTA | https://nmfta.org/

Help Sgt. Murphy's Kids Soar: A Fallen Hero: https://www.gofundme.com/f/in-memory-of-sgt-murphy-support-his-children

Donate to support Stacy and her family: https://tinyurl.com/36xmxcmr

🚀🔥 To sign up for my Newsletter, go to http://eepurl.com/iNoHco, get in touch with me through the social media channels below, and subscribe to my YouTube Channel!👇

▶️ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCjrL70IEnCfDkNaiYMar3jw

📷 https://www.instagram.com/thefreightcoach/

🕊️ https://twitter.com/thefr8coach

💼 https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-jolly-a183aa6a/

How well do you really know your vendors? Are your cybersecurity defenses keeping up with modern freight threats? Listen to Ben Wilkens for Day 2 of the 2025 NMFTA Cybersecurity Conference as he talks about the growing overlap between cybersecurity, cargo theft, and vendor management in transportation!

We cover why third-party vendors are often the weakest link, how simple steps like multi-factor authentication (MFA) can stop most attacks, and why using the NMFTA's vendor checklist should be a standard practice for every carrier and broker.

Ben also breaks down how cybercriminals are blending digital scams with physical theft, using tactics like phishing and fake carrier setups to exploit gaps in vetting and process discipline, why technology alone can't fix broken operations, and how consistent vetting, digital hygiene, and collaboration across the industry are key to protecting freight!

About Ben Wilkens

Ben Wilkens, CISSP, CCSP, CISM, is a Cybersecurity Principal Engineer at the National Motor Freight Traffic Association, Inc. (NMFTA)™.

In his role at NMFTA, Ben spearheads research initiatives and leads teams dedicated to developing cutting-edge cybersecurity technologies, methodologies, and strategies to safeguard information systems and networks. He collaborates extensively with academic institutions, industry partners, and government agencies to advance cybersecurity practices and knowledge.

Ben provides expert insights and recommendations to organizations, enhancing their security posture and helping them navigate the constantly evolving landscape of cyber threats.

Before joining NMFTA, Ben was a key executive at a third-generation family-owned trucking and logistics company. There, he focused on the strategic integration of technology to improve operational efficiency while ensuring adherence to cybersecurity best practices.

With a rare combination of CISSP, CCSP, and CISM certifications alongside an active Class A CDL, Ben brings a unique perspective to the intersection of cybersecurity and transportation. In addition to his extensive experience as an over-the-road driver, he has held roles in dispatch operations, driver management, and brokerage sales. Ben later transitioned to IT and operations support, where he honed his expertise in cybersecurity.

📊📉 Don't miss out on the latest market trends by subscribing to your TOP Transportation Morning Show! 🌎

🎬🎯 #TheFreightCoach Morning Show is LIVE every weekday at 10:30 AM CST to break down transportation industry headlines! Mark your calendars!

To Find Out More About My Freight Services

Visit https://freightcoachlogistics.com/

🤝 Shoutout to my sponsors!👇

• Denim | https://info.denim.com/chrisjolly
• SPI Logistics | https://spi3pl.com/
• Revenova | https://revenova.com/freightcoach/
• NMFTA | https://nmfta.org/

Help Sgt. Murphy's Kids Soar: A Fallen Hero: https://www.gofundme.com/f/in-memory-of-sgt-murphy-support-his-children

Donate to support Stacy and her family: https://tinyurl.com/36xmxcmr

🚀🔥 To sign up for my Newsletter, go to http://eepurl.com/iNoHco, get in touch with me through the social media channels below, and subscribe to my YouTube Channel!👇

▶️ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCjrL70IEnCfDkNaiYMar3jw

📷 https://www.instagram.com/thefreightcoach/

🕊️ https://twitter.com/thefr8coach

💼 https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-jolly-a183aa6a/