Thousands of individuals with a criminal record struggle to find stable jobs—but what if trucking could be the answer?

In this episode, James Hazelton of FreeWorld shares how his organization is transforming lives by helping justice-impacted individuals earn their CDL and secure long-term careers in trucking. As an advocate for second-chance hiring, James dives into the barriers former inmates face, the power of mentorship, and how companies can benefit from hiring motivated drivers ready for a fresh start.

Whether you're an industry leader, an employer, or someone looking for an inspiring story of resilience, this episode delivers eye-opening insights into trucking's role in reducing recidivism and building stronger communities.

• 00:01:24 – How James unexpectedly found his way into trucking.
• 00:03:07 – The mission of FreeWorld and how they help formerly incarcerated individuals.
• 00:04:28 – The role of mentorship and community in driver success.
• 00:07:49 – James' diverse experience in trucking: driver, recruiter, operations, and beyond.
• 00:10:40 – The biggest hiring challenges second-chance drivers face.
• 00:12:42 – How FreeWorld supports new drivers with training, stipends, and job placement.
• 00:17:22 – The driver retention problem and how it affects hiring strategies.
• 00:19:34 – The need for more skilled diesel mechanics and FreeWorld's expansion plans.
• 00:21:30 – How mentorship shaped James' career and personal growth.
• 00:27:12 – Advice for truckers: safety, employer research, and career planning.
• 00:31:24 – How employers can get involved in second-chance hiring through FreeWorld.

James Hazelton is a trucking industry professional and passionate advocate for second-chance employment. As a key representative of FreeWorld—a nonprofit dedicated to helping formerly incarcerated individuals launch careers in trucking—he works to connect drivers with employers who believe in giving people a second chance.

With experience in operations, recruiting, safety, and business development, James provides valuable insight into how trucking can be a powerful tool for reducing recidivism and creating sustainable career paths.

🌍 Learn more about FreeWorld: https://www.joinfreeworld.com 📧 Contact James Hazelton: [email protected] 🔗 Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jameshazelton

🚛 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/UhOtnD5kFk8 🎙 Listen on your favorite podcast platform!

Are you a leader in trucking or logistics with an inspiring story to share? Let's talk! Reach out to us at [email protected].

Can Smarter Tech Fix Trucking's Biggest Challenges? The logistics industry is evolving fast—but outdated systems still slow down carriers and brokers. Could AI-powered TMS technology be the key to streamlining operations and boosting efficiency?

In this episode, Nick Darman, Founder & CEO of Alvys TMS, shares his entrepreneurial journey and how his company is reshaping the future of transportation management. From launching a trucking company in college to building an innovative logistics platform, Nick dives into the role of AI, automation, and data-driven decision-making in solving inefficiencies across the industry.

Whether you're a carrier, broker, or entrepreneur, this episode delivers game-changing insights into the future of logistics technology and how to stay ahead in a rapidly changing industry.

00:01:12 – Nick's journey from Moldova to the U.S. and his first steps in trucking. 00:02:30 – How he launched a trucking company in college to support his family. 00:07:10 – Lessons from finance that shaped his approach to logistics. 00:12:45 – Why Nick founded Alvys TMS and how it solves inefficiencies. 00:18:20 – What makes Alvys TMS unique: hybrid architecture and marketplace features. 00:24:08 – The role of AI in TMS and how automation enhances efficiency. 00:29:00 – Nick's vision for the future of logistics and empowering carriers.

Nick Darman is the Founder & CEO of Alvys TMS, a cutting-edge transportation management system designed to optimize operations for trucking companies, freight brokers, and shippers. With nearly two decades in logistics and finance, Nick's expertise in data-driven technology solutions has helped carriers scale and improve efficiency. His passion for innovation and problem-solving makes Alvys TMS a leader in modern logistics technology.

🌍 Learn more about Alvys TMS: https://www.alvys.com 🔗 Connect with Nick on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ndarman/

🚛 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: [Insert YouTube link if available] 🎙 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 Does Military Experience Shape a Career in Logistics? Many veterans transition into logistics after serving in the military, but few take it as far as Robert "Pedro" Petersen—from Army Motor Transport Operator (88M) to logistics media influencer.

In this episode, Pedro, co-host of The Logistics Lounge Podcast, shares his 19-year journey in logistics, from driving and fleet management to mentorship and industry media. He dives into how technology, AI, and storytelling are shaping the future of logistics, and why mentorship is critical for long-term success.

Whether you're a veteran exploring trucking, a logistics professional looking for career inspiration, or just someone eager to learn about industry media, this episode is packed with insights, experience, and real-world advice.

00:00:50 – Pedro's start in logistics as a Motor Transport Operator (88M) in the Army. 00:05:30 – Transitioning from driving to office-based logistics roles. 00:12:15 – The rise of media in logistics and how The Logistics Lounge was born. 00:18:45 – Why mentorship is essential in logistics. 00:22:10 – Predictions for the future of logistics and how technology will shape it.

Robert "Pedro" Petersen is a logistics veteran with nearly two decades of industry experience. From his Army service as a Motor Transport Operator (88M) to founding The Logistics Lounge podcast with Hunter Woodfin, Pedro has dedicated his career to solving logistics challenges, mentoring others, and amplifying industry voices through media.

🌍 Learn more about The Logistics Lounge Podcast: 🔗 https://www.logisticsloungeshow.com/ 🔗 https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-logistics-lounge

🔗 Connect with Pedro on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robert-petersen4588486257/

🚛 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: [Insert YouTube link if available] 🎙 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 Does It Take to Build a Successful Career in Freight? From bus dispatching to freight brokerage, Matt Dahl has navigated a unique path in the logistics industry. But how did a background in public transportation lead to a leadership role in freight agent recruiting?

In this episode, Matt, Director of Agent Recruiting at HD Ships and co-host of Two Dogs, One Pod, shares how his diverse experiences shaped his career, the importance of mentorship, and why technology and social media are transforming logistics.

Whether you're a freight agent, owner-operator, or someone looking to break into logistics, this episode is full of actionable insights on relationship-building, contract awareness, and long-term success.

00:00:39 – Matt's journey from bus dispatcher to freight brokerage. 00:04:08 – The chaotic similarities between bus and freight dispatching. 00:08:34 – The importance of reading the fine print in logistics contracts. 00:12:03 – How podcasts and social media are influencing the logistics industry. 00:18:13 – How technology is shaping the future of freight. 00:20:10 – Advice for aspiring owner-operators and fleet owners.

Matt Dahl is a logistics leader, problem-solver, and mentor with a passion for helping freight agents succeed. As Director of Agent Recruiting at HD Ships, Matt is responsible for bringing in top-tier 1099 freight agents, helping to shape the next generation of logistics talent. He is also the co-host of Two Dogs, One Pod, a podcast featuring insights from industry professionals and covering the latest trends in logistics.

🌍 Learn more about Matt and his work: 🔗 Two Dogs, One Pod: https://www.linkedin.com/company/2-dawgs-1-pod 🔗 HD Ships: https://hdships.com/ 🔗 Connect with Matt on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-dahl-7b1b1073/ 🔗 HD Ships LinkedIn Page: https://www.linkedin.com/company/hd-ships/

🚛 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: [Insert YouTube link if available] 🎙 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 Go from Trucking to Executive Leadership? The path from behind the wheel to the boardroom isn't easy, but Colby Varley proves it's possible. With 14 years in perishable freight, Colby's journey from driver to Vice President at Advanced Transportation Services, Inc. (ATS) is a story of hard work, strategic growth, and industry leadership.

In this episode, Colby shares how early exposure to agriculture and logistics shaped his career and how relationship-building, continuous learning, and operational excellence have been the cornerstones of his success. If you're a driver, freight broker, or logistics professional looking to grow in the industry, this episode is packed with real-world strategies for long-term success.

00:00:39 – Introducing Colby Varley: From driver to Vice President. 00:03:09 – The evolution of produce logistics and its industry impact. 00:06:00 – The importance of relationships in perishable freight. 00:10:11 – Key lessons learned through hands-on industry experience. 00:16:14 – Advice for transitioning to owner-operator or fleet owner. 00:22:15 – Insights on patience and sustainable business growth. 00:29:20 – The value of being bilingual in logistics. 00:36:19 – Networking and staying fluid in professional growth.

Colby Varley is a seasoned logistics professional with 14 years of experience in the perishable freight industry. As Vice President and Principal at Advanced Transportation Services (ATS), he blends hands-on trucking experience with strategic leadership to drive innovation and operational excellence. A firm believer in continuous learning and relationship-building, Colby is passionate about mentoring professionals in the logistics sector.

🌍 Learn more about ATS and connect with Colby: 🔗 ATS Website: https://www.AdvancedTransportationServices.com 🔗 ATS LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com 📸 ATS Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/AdvancedTransportationServices

🚛 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: [Insert YouTube link if available] 🎙 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].

What's the Secret to Thriving as an Owner-Operator? Success in trucking isn't just about driving skills—it's about mindset, business acumen, and strategic decision-making.

In this episode, Larry Long, co-founder of Blue Ribbon Logistics, shares his extraordinary journey from multi-business entrepreneur to trucking mentor. He explains how mentorship, financial literacy, and business fundamentals are key to building a sustainable trucking business.

Larry's "Reset Your Mindset" program is transforming how owner-operators approach success, giving them the tools to think like business owners, not just drivers. If you're a trucker looking to level up or an entrepreneur stepping into logistics, this episode delivers actionable insights to help you succeed.

00:01:08 – Larry Long's diverse entrepreneurial background. 00:06:40 – Starting from scratch in the trucking industry. 00:15:20 – Finding success through Transport America and Landstar. 00:22:18 – The origins of Blue Ribbon Logistics and its mentorship-driven model. 00:28:45 – Developing the "Reset Your Mindset" program for owner-operators. 00:35:30 – Teaching trucking professionals business fundamentals. 00:44:12 – Why knowing your numbers and customer service are essential. 00:53:40 – Larry's top advice for aspiring trucking entrepreneurs.

Larry Long is the co-founder of Blue Ribbon Logistics, a mentorship-driven trucking program that equips drivers with the business skills needed to thrive as owner-operators. With decades of experience as an entrepreneur and trucking professional, Larry is passionate about education, financial literacy, and helping others succeed in logistics.

🌍 Learn more about Blue Ribbon Logistics: 🔗 Website: https://www.blueribbonlogistics.com 📧 Contact Larry: [email protected]

🚛 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: [Insert YouTube link if available] 🎙 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 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].