Can High School CDL Programs Solve Trucking’s Workforce Crisis? The trucking industry is facing a massive driver shortage, but what if the solution starts in high school?

In this episode, Dave Dein, co-founder of the Next Generation in Trucking Association, shares how he’s revolutionizing trucking education by bringing CDL training to high school students. From his own struggles in school to becoming a leader in trucking education, Dave’s story is one of innovation, mentorship, and workforce development.

Discover how early career education is transforming lives, solving industry challenges, and creating new career paths in logistics. If you're a trucking professional, industry leader, or educator, this episode is packed with valuable insights on training the next generation of drivers.

00:01:05 – Dave Dein’s journey from trucking to teaching. 00:03:34 – Transforming students’ lives through empowerment in the classroom. 00:05:06 – Launching the first high school trucking program in the U.S. 00:08:18 – How education helps address the trucking industry’s driver shortage. 00:12:06 – The impact of mentorship and leadership in trucking. 00:19:01 – Expanding the Next Generation in Trucking Association nationwide. 00:24:13 – How students are creating new career paths in logistics. 00:28:10 – Partnering with schools and industry leaders for sustainable growth.

Dave Dein is the co-founder of the Next Generation in Trucking Association and a pioneer in bringing CDL training to high school students. With a background in trucking, education, and nonprofit work, Dave is passionate about empowering young people and creating career opportunities in logistics.

🌍 Learn more about Next Generation in Trucking: 🔗 Website: https://nextgentrucking.org 🔗 Connect with Dave on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davedein/

🚛 Get expert insights from trucking and logistics leaders who have put in the miles and are here to mentor you!

🌐 Podcast Website: https://www.milesandmentorspodcast.com 📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/milesandmentorspodcast 🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/milesandmentorspodcast

🎧 Watch & Listen: 📺 YouTube:  https://youtu.be/JRfqbAnKS0Y  🎙 Listen on your favorite podcast platform!

🚛 Want to Be Featured? Are you a trucking or logistics leader with an inspiring story to share? Let’s talk! Reach out at 📧 [email protected].

How Do You Go from an Accidental Start to Building a Logistics Company? The freight industry moves fast, and adapting to challenges is key to success. Will Hopkins never planned on a career in logistics—but through mentorship, resilience, and community, he went from learning on the job to co-founding Black Box Logistics.

In this episode, Will, co-founder of Black Box Logistics and co-host of Two Dawgs, One Pod, shares how he built a freight brokerage, leveraged social media to create meaningful connections, and navigated the ups and downs of entrepreneurship.

Whether you're a freight broker, trucking entrepreneur, or industry newcomer, this episode delivers valuable lessons on scaling a business, avoiding burnout, and thriving in logistics.

00:01:05 – Will Hopkins’ journey: From accidental logistics entry to co-founding Black Box Logistics. 00:02:15 – Key lessons learned while building a business in logistics. 00:03:34 – The value of resilience and mindset in overcoming industry challenges. 00:05:06 – Starting a dispatching company and working closely with drivers. 00:08:18 – The impact of social media on logistics and building connections. 00:12:06 – Mentorship: Why it matters and how it shaped Will’s career. 00:14:12 – Scaling a business: Advice for new industry entrants. 00:19:01 – Challenges and solutions for starting a trucking or brokerage business. 00:24:13 – The future of logistics: Technology, automation, and new opportunities. 00:28:10 – Avoiding burnout and staying motivated as a founder.

Will Hopkins is the co-founder of Black Box Logistics, a third-party freight brokerage based in Birmingham, Alabama, and co-host of Two Dawgs, One Pod. With a focus on problem-solving and strong partnerships, Will is passionate about helping others succeed in the logistics industry.

🌍 Learn more about Will and his work: 🔗 Connect with Will on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/will-hopkins1/ 🔗 Black Box Logistics: https://shipblbx.com/ 🔗 Black Box Logistics LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/blackbox-logistics/ 🎙 Two Dawgs, One Pod Podcast: 🔗 Podcast LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/2-dawgs-1-pod 📺 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@2Dawgs1Pod

🚛 Get expert insights from trucking and logistics leaders who have put in the miles and are here to mentor you!

🌐 Podcast Website: https://www.milesandmentorspodcast.com 📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/milesandmentorspodcast 🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/milesandmentorspodcast

🎧 Watch & Listen: 📺 YouTube:  https://youtu.be/TQnKD9nHRzI  🎙 Listen on your favorite podcast platform!

🚛 Want to Be Featured? Are you a trucking or logistics leader with an inspiring story to share? Let’s talk! Reach out at 📧 [email protected].

What Are the Key Elements of a Thriving Fleet Operation? Running a successful fleet is about more than just managing trucks—it requires strategic planning, efficiency, and risk management.

In this episode, Steven Saltzgiver of RTA: The Fleet Success Company shares his nearly 50-year journey in fleet management, from working as a diesel mechanic to becoming an industry consultant and author. He breaks down the "Four Pillars of Fleet Success"—Stakeholder Satisfaction, Intentional Culture, Resource Efficiency, and Risk Management—and explains how these principles apply to both business and life.

If you're a fleet owner, manager, or transportation professional, this episode is filled with actionable insights on optimizing fleet operations, embracing technology, and building a sustainable business.

00:01:20 – Steven’s career journey: From diesel mechanic to fleet management consultant. 00:07:35 – The value of mentorship and professional networks in career growth. 00:10:08 – The Four Pillars of Fleet Success and their impact on business and life. 00:18:18 – Industry challenges: Technology shifts, increasing complexity, and knowledge loss. 00:24:05 – Emerging trends: Robotics, autonomous vehicles, and future technologies. 00:28:58 – Futureproofing fleets: Adapting to regulations and industry changes. 00:35:19 – Advice for aspiring fleet professionals: Build skills, seek mentors, and keep learning.

Steven Saltzgiver is a fleet management expert with nearly five decades of experience. As the author of The Fleet Success Playbook and a consultant at RTA, Steven helps organizations streamline operations, embrace technology, and develop intentional cultures. A passionate advocate for mentorship and knowledge-sharing, he is committed to helping fleet professionals navigate industry challenges.

🌍 Learn more about Steven and RTA: 🔗 RTA Fleet Website: https://rtafleet.com/ 🔗 Connect with Steven on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ssaltzgiver/ 🎙 The Fleet Success Show Podcast: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-fleet-success-show/

🚛 Get expert insights from trucking and logistics leaders who have put in the miles and are here to mentor you!

🌐 Podcast Website: https://www.milesandmentorspodcast.com 📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/milesandmentorspodcast 🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/milesandmentorspodcast

🎧 Watch & Listen: 📺 YouTube:  https://youtu.be/Nehr9_W_OnQ  🎙 Listen on your favorite podcast platform!

🚛 Want to Be Featured? Are you a trucking or logistics leader with an inspiring story to share? Let’s talk! Reach out at 📧 [email protected].

How Can Truckers Protect Themselves from Legal Pitfalls? From catastrophic accident lawsuits to rising insurance costs, the legal side of trucking can be a minefield. But how can owner-operators and fleet owners protect themselves and stay ahead of industry regulations?

In this episode, Matthew Leffler—aka The Armchair Attorney®—breaks down trucking law like never before. With a lifetime in logistics and years as a legal expert, Matthew explains corporate structures, nuclear verdicts, compliance challenges, and the future of trucking law.

If you're a driver, fleet owner, or logistics professional, this episode is packed with must-know legal insights to safeguard your business and stay compliant.

01:20 – Matthew’s background: Growing up in logistics and becoming The Armchair Attorney®. 06:45 – Why corporate structure matters: LLCs, S-corps, and protecting your business. 12:10 – The rising costs of trucking: Insurance, liability, and compliance. 18:35 – Werner Enterprises’ $100M+ verdict and its industry implications. 25:50 – Safety essentials: Pre-trip inspections and reducing liability risks. 32:20 – The future of trucking: Autonomous vehicles, cybersecurity, and legal challenges. 42:05 – Key advice for truckers: Don't defer maintenance—on your truck, your health, or your relationships.

Matthew Leffler, aka The Armchair Attorney®, is a lawyer, podcast host, and logistics industry thought leader. With extensive experience in supply chain law, Matthew specializes in breaking down complex legal issues to help carriers and drivers navigate an ever-changing regulatory landscape. His insights are essential for anyone in trucking.

🌍 Learn more about Matthew Leffler: 🔗 Connect with Matthew on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-leffler/ 🔗 Follow Matthew on Twitter: https://twitter.com/armchairatty 🎙 Listen to Fleeting Conversations Podcast

🚛 Get expert insights from trucking and logistics leaders who have put in the miles and are here to mentor you!

🌐 Podcast Website: https://www.milesandmentorspodcast.com 📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/milesandmentorspodcast 🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/milesandmentorspodcast

🎧 Watch & Listen: 📺 YouTube:  https://youtu.be/IX_iKcopofs  🎙 Listen on your favorite podcast platform!

🚛 Want to Be Featured? Are you a trucking or logistics leader with an inspiring story to share? Let’s talk! Reach out at 📧 [email protected].

Can Better Facilities Solve Trucking’s Driver Retention Problem? Truckers keep America moving, but outdated and uncomfortable rest stops have long been a challenge. What if drivers had safe, modern, and fully equipped terminals instead?

In this episode, Jeff Swenson, founder of Linehaul Station, shares his vision for revolutionizing trucking terminals. With a background in real estate, Jeff recognized the poor conditions of driver lounges and parking—and built a solution designed for today’s professional truckers.

Jeff explains how Linehaul Station provides shared-space terminals with private lounges, maintenance services, and secure parking, all aimed at enhancing driver well-being, increasing operational efficiency, and improving recruitment and retention. If you're a driver, carrier, or industry leader, this episode offers a fresh take on the future of trucking infrastructure.

01:10 – Jeff’s journey into logistics and how he founded Linehaul Station. 05:30 – The current state of driver lounges and why they need improvement. 12:45 – Membership benefits and code of conduct at Linehaul Station. 20:00 – How shared-space terminals support smaller carriers. 25:40 – Improving driver recruitment and retention through better facilities. 30:15 – The role of sustainability and the future of electric trucks. 39:50 – Jeff’s long-term vision for Linehaul Station’s nationwide expansion.

Jeff Swenson is the founder of Linehaul Station, a company dedicated to modernizing trucking terminals and elevating the driver experience. With a background in real estate and logistics, Jeff has developed a new model of shared-space terminals that provides secure, comfortable, and fully equipped facilities for professional drivers. His work aims to improve industry retention, efficiency, and driver satisfaction.

🌍 Learn more about Linehaul Station: 🔗 Website: www.linehaulstation.com 🔗 Connect with Jeff on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeff-swenson-2744606/

🚛 Get expert insights from trucking and logistics leaders who have put in the miles and are here to mentor you!

🌐 Podcast Website: www.milesandmentorspodcast.com 📘 Facebook: facebook.com/milesandmentors 🔗 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/miles-and-mentors-podcast

🎧 Watch & Listen: 📺 YouTube:  https://youtu.be/7U8nPUD5eHw  🎙 Listen on your favorite podcast platform!

🚛 Want to Be Featured? Are you a trucking or logistics leader with an inspiring story to share? Let’s talk! Reach out at 📧 [email protected].

How Do You Build a Successful Recruitment Business in Trucking? Finding the right drivers for the right companies isn’t just about hiring—it’s about retention, culture, and long-term success.

In this episode, Kameel Gaines, CEO of Rig on Wheels, shares her incredible journey from solo entrepreneur to industry leader in driver recruitment and retention. She discusses the challenges of growing a business, the importance of matching drivers with company culture, and how diversity and inclusion are shaping the future of trucking.

Whether you're a driver, recruiter, or trucking entrepreneur, this episode offers actionable insights on building a sustainable career, fostering mentorship, and making a lasting impact in logistics.

01:00 – Introduction to Kameel Gaines and Rig on Wheels. 04:15 – What brought Kameel to the trucking industry. 07:30 – Overcoming challenges as a solo entrepreneur. 12:45 – The importance of building the right team. 16:20 – Matching drivers to company culture for long-term success. 22:05 – Kameel’s perspective on diversity, equity, and inclusion in trucking. 28:45 – The impact of mentorship on driver retention. 32:10 – Advice for new drivers on building a sustainable career. 36:00 – Kameel’s approach to mentorship and the value of community.

Kameel Gaines is the CEO of Rig on Wheels, a leading recruitment and retention agency in the trucking industry. With years of experience, Kameel has built a diverse and inclusive team dedicated to helping drivers find the right opportunities while supporting companies in building strong, long-lasting fleets. She is passionate about mentorship, workforce development, and creating positive change in trucking.

🌍 Learn more about Kameel and Rig on Wheels: 📞 Phone: (281) 968-3100 🔗 Website: https://www.rigonwheels.com/ 🔗 Connect with Kameel on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kameel-gaines-rig-on-wheels/ 📘 Follow Rig on Wheels on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RigOnWheels

🚛 Get expert insights from trucking and logistics leaders who have put in the miles and are here to mentor you!

🌐 Podcast Website: www.milesandmentorspodcast.com 📘 Facebook: facebook.com/milesandmentors 🔗 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/miles-and-mentors-podcast

🎧 Watch & Listen: 📺 YouTube:  https://youtu.be/gPkY-0v-uH8  🎙 Listen on your favorite podcast platform!

🚛 Want to Be Featured? Are you a trucking or logistics leader with an inspiring story to share? Let’s talk! Reach out at 📧 [email protected].

What’s It Like to Be a Female Truck Driver in a Male-Dominated Industry? Trucking is tough—but breaking barriers as a woman in the industry comes with its own set of challenges.

In this episode, Tierra Allen—better known as The Sassy Trucker—shares her inspiring journey from nursing to trucking and how she built a powerful presence on TikTok, YouTube, and Instagram. Tierra explains how social media helped her overcome the isolation of long-haul driving, connect with a supportive community, and mentor aspiring truckers.

She also tackles safety concerns for female drivers, breaking gender stereotypes, and her long-term goal of owning her own trucking business. If you're a new or experienced driver—or thinking about trucking as a career—this episode delivers invaluable insights on confidence, resilience, and taking control of your future.

01:15 – Tierra’s journey from nursing to trucking. 04:10 – Overcoming gender stereotypes in a male-dominated industry. 08:05 – Using social media to combat isolation and connect with others. 12:20 – Safety tips for female truck drivers. 16:30 – The challenges of balancing content creation with life on the road. 20:45 – Tierra’s five-year plan and goals for the future. 25:50 – Thoughts on technology’s impact on the trucking industry. 29:30 – The value of mentorship and Tierra’s role as a mentor for female drivers. 33:15 – Advice for those considering a career in trucking.

Tierra Allen, also known as The Sassy Trucker, is a social media influencer, content creator, and long-haul truck driver. Through her TikTok, YouTube, and Instagram platforms, she shares real-life trucking experiences, mentorship for aspiring drivers, and tips for women entering the industry. Passionate about breaking stereotypes and empowering others, Tierra is on a mission to inspire more women to pursue careers in trucking.

🌍 Follow Tierra, The Sassy Trucker: 📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SassyTruckerr 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sassy.trucker 📺 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheSassyTrucker 🎶 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@sasssy.trucker

🚛 Get expert insights from trucking and logistics leaders who have put in the miles and are here to mentor you!

🌐 Podcast Website: www.milesandmentorspodcast.com 📘 Facebook: facebook.com/milesandmentors 🔗 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/miles-and-mentors-podcast

🎧 Watch & Listen: 📺 YouTube:  https://youtu.be/1nP1OVp61m0  🎙 Listen on your favorite podcast platform!

🚛 Want to Be Featured? Are you a trucking or logistics leader with an inspiring story to share? Let’s talk! Reach out at 📧 [email protected].

How Can Fleet Owners Build a Defensible Risk Program? The trucking industry is high-risk, and staying compliant isn’t just about following rules—it’s about protecting your business from costly liabilities.

In this episode, Rob Carpenter, “The DOT Guy”, shares his journey from driver to fleet owner, broker, and compliance expert. As the founder of Truck Safe Consulting, Rob specializes in helping fleet owners navigate risk management, compliance strategies, and capital management.

He breaks down common mistakes new fleet owners make, the role of technology in optimizing operations, and why every trucking professional needs a risk management plan. If you're a driver, fleet owner, or transportation executive, this episode is packed with insights to keep your business safe and profitable.

01:20 – Rob’s journey from driver to fleet owner, broker, and compliance adviser. 04:15 – The realities of managing capital as a fleet owner. 08:35 – The importance of risk management and compliance in trucking. 12:45 – Key steps to developing a defensible risk program for new fleet owners. 16:25 – How telematics and fleet intelligence systems optimize operations. 20:30 – Managing compliance for multi-DOT numbered fleets. 25:15 – Career growth and safety tips for new drivers. 28:40 – The future of transportation: Autonomous trucks and safety compliance. 33:10 – Rob’s biggest compliance lesson from personal experience.

Rob Carpenter, also known as “The DOT Guy”, is a risk management and compliance expert with a background in fleet ownership, brokerage, and transportation consulting. As the founder of Truck Safe Consulting, Rob helps trucking businesses develop risk programs, stay compliant, and manage regulatory challenges. His insights are essential for fleet owners looking to protect their businesses from liabilities.

🌍 Learn more about Rob Carpenter and Truck Safe Consulting: 🔗 Truck Safe Consulting Website: https://www.trucksafe.com/ 🔗 Carpenter Compliance Website: https://carpentercompliance.com 🔗 Connect with Rob on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-carpenter-cds-cdm-e-74500977/

🚛 Get expert insights from trucking and logistics leaders who have put in the miles and are here to mentor you!

🌐 Podcast Website: www.milesandmentorspodcast.com 📘 Facebook: www.facebook.com/milesandmentors 🔗 LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/miles-and-mentors-podcast

🎧 Watch & Listen: 📺 YouTube:  https://youtu.be/00Z5eE7qEjY  🎙 Listen on your favorite podcast platform!

🚛 Want to Be Featured? Are you a trucking or logistics leader with an inspiring story to share? Or are you interested in sponsoring an episode? Let’s talk! Reach out at 📧 [email protected].

Can Offshore Staffing Solve the Logistics Industry’s Turnover Problem? High turnover and inefficiency can slow down trucking companies and freight brokerages—but what if offshore staffing could provide stability and scalability?

In this episode, Matt Anness, President of Operations at Trio Incorporated, shares how his company helps logistics businesses reduce turnover, streamline operations, and scale efficiently. From documenting processes to leveraging outsourcing, Matt provides insightful strategies for owner-operators, fleet managers, and freight brokers looking to build a more resilient business.

Matt also reflects on his own journey from unemployment to logistics leadership, the lessons he learned from drivers, and why mentorship and adaptability are essential for success in the industry. Whether you're starting out in logistics or managing a growing company, this episode delivers practical advice on efficiency, staffing, and long-term success.

01:07 – Matt’s journey from unemployment to the logistics industry. 03:30 – Founding Trio Incorporated and tackling high turnover in logistics. 06:45 – The benefits of outsourcing for trucking companies and brokers. 09:30 – Early career challenges as an account manager at TAFS. 12:00 – Lessons from truck drivers and evolving roles in logistics. 15:20 – The role of mentorship and asking the right questions. 18:45 – Scaling a trucking company through process documentation. 22:15 – Building a scalable offshore staffing model for logistics. 25:40 – Advice for new trucking companies: Planning, branding, and customer base. 29:00 – How technology and automation are shaping the future of logistics. 33:30 – Final thoughts: Urgency, mentorship, and embracing change.

Matt Anness is the President of Operations at Trio Incorporated, a company specializing in offshore staffing solutions for trucking companies, brokerages, and logistics firms. With years of experience in process optimization and workforce management, Matt helps businesses stabilize operations, improve efficiency, and scale effectively. His expertise in mentorship, documentation, and automation makes him a must-listen for logistics professionals.

🌍 Learn more about Matt Anness and Trio Incorporated: 🔗 Connect with Matt on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-anness-9219672b/ 📘 Follow Trio Incorporated on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mytrioservicesinc 🌐 Visit Trio Incorporated: https://www.mytrioservices.com/

🚛 Get expert insights from trucking and logistics leaders who have put in the miles and are here to mentor you!

🌐 Podcast Website: www.milesandmentorspodcast.com 📘 Facebook: www.facebook.com/milesandmentors 🔗 LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/miles-and-mentors-podcast

🎧 Watch & Listen: 📺 YouTube:  https://youtu.be/JUB6cM8oMgI  🎙 Listen on your favorite podcast platform!

🚛 Want to Be Featured? Are you a trucking or logistics leader with an inspiring story to share? Or are you interested in sponsoring an episode? Let’s talk! Reach out at 📧 [email protected].

How Do You Scale from Truck Driver to Logistics Business Owner? Trucking is more than just moving freight—it’s about building a sustainable business, making the right transitions, and understanding the power of networking.

In this episode, Dushawn Falls, founder of Greenfalls Logistics, shares his remarkable journey from truck driver to logistics entrepreneur. He discusses the challenges of scaling a trucking business, transitioning into brokerage, and the key lessons that helped him grow faster.

Dushawn also highlights career planning, mentorship, and financial management, offering valuable advice for drivers, fleet owners, and logistics entrepreneurs. If you're looking to level up your career or scale a logistics business, this episode is packed with real-world insights and proven strategies.

01:10 – Dushawn’s journey from truck driver to logistics business owner. 03:45 – Starting in trucking and bypassing college. 06:30 – Early career challenges: Being away from family and learning the ropes. 09:45 – Scaling from owner-operator to running a trucking company. 12:00 – Transitioning from trucking to freight brokerage. 15:20 – The importance of mentorship and networking in logistics. 18:00 – Building a scalable business model in logistics. 20:45 – Advice for aspiring truck drivers and logistics entrepreneurs. 23:15 – Key lessons: Cash flow, letting go of underperforming employees, and staying humble. 26:30 – Why Dushawn shifted to brokerage and how it helped him grow faster. 29:00 – Final thoughts: The power of mentorship, resilience, and building relationships.

Dushawn Falls is the founder of Greenfalls Logistics, a trucking and brokerage company focused on scaling efficient logistics solutions. With years of experience as a driver, fleet owner, and now broker, Dushawn has mentored aspiring entrepreneurs and helped others navigate the logistics industry with proven strategies for success.

🌍 Learn more about Dushawn Falls and Greenfalls Logistics: 🔗 Connect with Dushawn on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dushawn-falls-129b2a221 📸 Follow Dushawn on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dushawn_falls 📺 Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@dushawnfalls 🌐 Visit Greenfalls Logistics: https://www.greenfallslogistics.com/

🚛 Get expert insights from trucking and logistics leaders who have put in the miles and are here to mentor you!

🌐 Podcast Website: www.milesandmentorspodcast.com 📘 Facebook: www.facebook.com/milesandmentors 🔗 LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/miles-and-mentors-podcast

🎧 Watch & Listen: 📺 YouTube:  https://youtu.be/M7IxV6DN0Y0  🎙 Listen on your favorite podcast platform!

🚛 Want to Be Featured? Are you a trucking or logistics leader with an inspiring story to share? Or are you interested in sponsoring an episode? Let’s talk! Reach out at 📧 [email protected].