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Surviving life in a 70-square-foot space with your truck trainer requires careful planning and consideration—especially when it comes to what you should leave at home. Drawing from years of experience as both trainee and trainer, Tamie dives deep into the dos and don'ts of packing for your trainer truck adventure.

Those massive hard-shell suitcases might seem essential for weeks on the road, but where exactly will you store them? Your trainer's truck isn't equipped with walk-in closets or overhead compartments. Instead, soft duffel bags that can be compressed and tucked away make much more sense in the limited space available.

Kitchen appliances are another major no-no that new drivers frequently get wrong. That George Foreman grill might seem like a good idea until it trips the inverter and knocks out power to essential systems. And let's talk about smells—whether it's tuna sandwiches, unwashed gym clothes, or heavy cologne, strong odors become monumentally invasive when you're sharing such tight quarters.

Entertainment options should be minimal and personal. Leave the gaming consoles, Bluetooth speakers, and—yes, it's happened—portable movie projectors at home. Your focus should be on learning, not turning your trainer's professional space into your personal recreation room. And those sentimental items like guitars, lucky rock collections, or oversized stuffed animals? They'll just take up precious space that you simply don't have.

Ready to hit the road with your trainer? Listen now to avoid the rookie mistakes that could make those crucial training weeks uncomfortable for everyone involved. Your trainer will thank you, and your experience will be so much better when you're not crammed in with unnecessary stuff!

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Join us for a deep dive into the complexities surrounding the narrative of a driver shortage in the trucking industry. This episode tackles the common perception propagated by many organizations while contrasting it with actual statistics that tell a different story. With over 400,000 new CDLs issued every year, the real issue isn't the absence of drivers—it’s the staggering turnover rates that plague the sector.

We explore the myriad reasons why drivers leave the profession, from long hours and unpredictable schedules to stagnant wages that have not seen meaningful increases in decades. This conversation emphasizes the critical need for trucking companies to focus on driver retention rather than merely influx recruitment strategies. 

Additionally, we delve into strategies companies can implement to improve working conditions and satisfaction rates among their drivers. Predictable schedules, better compensation, and a supportive culture are essential to keeping talented drivers on the roads. Join the conversation and discover what’s really driving the challenges in the trucking industry today. Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share your thoughts!

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Are you dreaming of a career behind the wheel? The path to obtaining your Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) has evolved significantly with new regulations that every aspiring truck driver should know. This episode expertly unpacks the recently introduced Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) requirements, designed to reinforce the foundational skills necessary for safe and competent driving. We highlight the differences between community college and private training programs, discuss the various costs associated with training, and share personal anecdotes that provide an authentic glimpse into the world of truck driving education.

Discover why it’s critical to choose a training provider that not only prepares you for the test but equips you with the knowledge and confidence needed to thrive as a professional driver. By understanding the expectations that come with your CDL, including knowledge of regulations such as hours of service and vehicle safety inspections, you'll be better positioned to succeed on the road. 

Join us for this enlightening discussion, and take the first step on your journey towards becoming a professional truck driver. Don’t forget to subscribe and share this episode with someone who might be interested in hitting the road!

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Ever wondered how to fit your entire life into just three bags for life on the road? Join me, Tamie, as I unravel the secrets to efficient and organized packing for new CDL drivers embarking on a journey with their trainers. Drawing from my personal journey as a former trainer and experienced female driver, I promise to guide you through the art of packing a shower bag, a clothing essentials bag, and a bedding bag. Discover why personal hygiene should never be compromised and how simple choices like zippered baggies and personal towels can make your travel more comfortable and tidy.

Embrace the trucking lifestyle with confidence as we explore the essentials of loading and unloading a trainer’s truck with ease. Even if you’re concerned about leaving something behind, I reassure you that most of your needs are covered. Tap into the wealth of online resources and employer-provided lists to fill in any gaps. Whether you're a rookie driver or just seeking some practical tips, I warmly welcome you to the world of trucking. Feel free to reach out with any questions—this episode is your ticket to a smoother and more enjoyable road experience.

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Investors in the Truck Biz in a Box platform face hardships as Crystal Young shares her turbulent experience with Chamaine Jeffers. Her story gives valuable insights into the need for transparency, careful consideration, and vigilance in investment pursuits. 
• Crystal's $50,000 investment in Truck Biz in a Box 
• Red flags in documentation and contract agreements 
• Difficulty in finding drivers despite proactive measures 
• Truck broke down within a week of assignment 
• Ongoing communication issues with Jeffers 
• Legal community involvement due to widespread problems 
• Lessons on transparency and vulnerability in investments

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Tezra Scott bravely steps forward to recount her unsettling experience with Truck Biz in a Box, a supposed turnkey solution for aspiring trucking entrepreneurs spearheaded by Chamaine Jeffers. Despite the grand promises of guaranteed success and seamless entry into the trucking industry, Scott and other investors found themselves caught in a tangled web of unmet commitments and financial despair. By sharing her story, Tezra hopes to pave the way for others who have faced similar struggles with Jeffers’ venture, shining a light on the importance of transparency and accountability in business dealings.

We take a closer look at the intricacies involved in setting up a trucking business with the help of Truck Biz in a Box, specifically focusing on the experiences of clients who purchased the $15,000 package. Promised services like business credit establishment were left unfulfilled, leaving investors in a precarious state with unclear contractual obligations and poor communication from the service provider. This episode serves as a cautionary tale about the necessity of conducting due diligence before investing in opportunities that appear too good to be true.

The collective efforts to seek justice are also explored, highlighting how these investors are turning to legal avenues and public discourse to hold Chamaine Jeffers accountable. As frustration mounted, Scott and her fellow investors decided to go public, taking their grievances to platforms like podcasts and social media, and reaching out to authorities including the FBI and the Attorney General. The episode underscores the emotional and financial toll of the alleged fraud, emphasizing the need for vigilance and the courage to stand up against deceitful business practices.

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What does it take to break generational boundaries and embrace a path less traveled? Join us for an inspiring conversation with Marie Norris, a fourth-generation truck driver and the pioneering woman in her family to embrace the trucking profession. Despite familial concerns and a challenging home environment, Marie found solace and independence on the open road. Her journey from managing her family’s business operations to becoming a professional driver is a testament to her resilience and determination.

Marie’s story is not just about trucking; it's about overcoming adversity and finding a new sense of family within the trucking community. Her transition from Georgia to Indiana marked a new beginning, fueled by the hope of escaping trauma and discovering self-worth. Through her narrative, Marie shares the challenges and rewards of being a lease operator in a male-dominated industry, offering invaluable insights and advice for aspiring female truckers. Her experiences underscore the importance of supportive networks and the strength found in unity.

Beyond her trucking career, Marie leads a parallel life as a singer-songwriter, weaving her love for music with her passion for the trucking community. Her creative endeavors, including the album "Perfume and Diesel," address significant themes like suicide prevention, offering a voice to those who may feel unheard. Marie’s dual journey as a trucker and musician becomes a powerful narrative of empowerment and resilience, encouraging listeners to embrace their dreams, recognize their worth, and find healing on their unique paths.

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Imagine a life marked by resilience and transformation, where every challenge is met with unwavering determination. That's the story of Desiree Wood, founder and president of Real Women in Trucking. She takes us through her inspiring journey, from a turbulent youth and early motherhood, through overcoming homelessness and an abusive marriage, to finding solace and purpose behind the wheel of a truck. Desiree's journey is a testament to the strength of the human spirit, illustrating how personal adversity can fuel a passion for advocacy and systemic change within the trucking industry.

Our conversation with Desiree dives deep into the chaotic and often perilous world of truck driving, where she encountered disorganization and unsafe practices firsthand. Her experiences in trucking exposed the troubling disconnect between drivers and industry leaders, sparking a drive to advocate for change. Desiree's transition from driver to advocate reveals her commitment to education, mental wellness, and the empowerment of women in trucking. We discuss the formidable challenges women face, from harassment to discrimination, and the relentless push for better conditions through the nonprofit organization, REAL Women in Trucking.

Desiree's narrative doesn't just stop at advocacy but extends into the broader issues plaguing the trucking industry. From the myth of driver shortages to exploitative recruitment practices, we explore the systemic problems that need addressing. Drawing from her rich personal experiences, Desiree shares her insights on fostering a supportive community and the importance of education in paving a future for truck drivers. This episode is a powerful reminder of the impact one person can have in challenging industry norms and advocating for meaningful change. Join us as we uncover the victories and ongoing battles within a male-dominated field, where the voices of committed advocates like Desiree offer hope and inspiration for a better tomorrow.

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What if you could be the difference between life and death on America's highways? Join me, Tamie, as we uncover the crucial role truckers play in the fight against human trafficking, especially during National Human Trafficking Prevention Month. With unique insights and practical advice, this episode explores how truckers become the vigilant eyes and ears on the road, empowering them to recognize and report signs of exploitation. Through the inspiring story of Kevin Kimmel, who took swift action to rescue a trafficking victim, we learn the impact our trucking community can have in bringing traffickers to justice.

As women in trucking, our perspectives offer a heightened awareness essential in this fight. We'll discuss actionable steps to take if you suspect human trafficking, emphasizing intuition and education. Discover how initiatives like the Women in Trucking Association's discreet information campaigns provide victims with pathways to help, and learn how spreading awareness in truck stops can make a significant difference. Let's unite to create safer roads and communities, supporting victims and preventing this horrific crime from continuing on our watch.

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Can the trucking industry ever become a safe haven for women or will it remain riddled with dangers like sexual harassment and assault? On "Trucking with Tamie," we're confronting these unsettling realities head-on, focusing on how women trainees often find themselves at risk in an environment that should be nurturing their skills. Despite lawsuits against big names like CRST and CR England, too many stories of harassment go unheard and unresolved. Join us as we spotlight advocates like Desiree Wood and organizations such as Real Women in Trucking, who tirelessly campaign for safer, more equitable conditions. We discuss the strides some companies have made, such as implementing same-gender training policies, but recognize that the journey towards comprehensive safety and respect is far from over.

Our exploration doesn't stop at raising awareness; it's a call to action for both the industry and individuals. We emphasize the importance of reporting incidents to authorities and rally for systemic change to protect and empower women truckers. This episode serves as a reminder that no one is alone in this battle and that there are resources and allies ready to support those affected. Through advocacy and a commitment to fostering an inclusive environment, we can reshape the future of trucking, making it a career path where safety and respect are non-negotiable. Tune in, stay informed, and be part of the movement pushing for a better tomorrow in trucking.

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