Trucking for Millennials

In this episode, Aaron and Nolan dive into their recent experience at the TIA (Transportation Intermediaries Association) Capital Ideas Conference in sunny Phoenix, Arizona. It PDQ America's their first time attending, and we wanted to share our insights and takeaways from this event, which is a significant gathering for freight brokers like us.

You'll hear us discuss our initial impressions, about the venue, what we learned, the networking that we had and the value of personal and professional development.

In this episode, we had the pleasure of speaking with Alex Mai of Mutha Trucker News, a prominent figure in the trucking industry with a massive following across various social media platforms. Alex shared his incredible journey from being a disillusioned Walgreens employee to becoming one of the most recognized voices in trucking.

• Embracing Opportunities: Alex's story is a testament to seizing opportunities, even when they seem daunting. His decision to leave a stable job at Walgreens to pursue trucking under his uncle's guidance was a pivotal moment that set the stage for his future success.

• Finding Your Niche: Alex emphasized the importance of listening to your audience and delivering content that resonates with them. He found his stride in providing trucking news and updates, which garnered more engagement than his personal vlogs.

• Building Relationships: A core theme of our conversation was the significance of building genuine relationships rather than transactional ones. Alex believes in providing value without expecting immediate returns, which has helped him forge lasting connections in the industry.

• Content Creation Insights: For those looking to make their mark in the digital space, Alex advises being data-driven and consistently analyzing which content performs best. He also stresses the need to enjoy what you're doing to avoid burnout.

• Platform Recommendations: When asked about the best platforms for gaining traction in the trucking industry, Alex highlighted the importance of understanding where your audience is most active and engaging with them there.

• T-Shirt Company: Alex discussed his involvement with a t-shirt company that caters to truckers, showcasing his entrepreneurial spirit and ability to diversify his income streams.

• Mother Trucker News: Alex's dedication to trucking news has made him a go-to source for updates within the trucking community, solidifying his role as an influencer.

• Alex shared personal stories, including the rejection he faced early on from other influencers and how it shaped his approach to collaboration and support within the community.

• He also touched on the challenges of balancing his personal life with his demanding schedule as a content creator and business owner.

Our conversation with Alex Mai was not only inspiring but also packed with practical advice for anyone looking to make an impact in the trucking industry or any field through social media. His journey is a reminder that with passion, hard work, and a focus on building genuine relationships, success is within reach.

Remember to subscribe to the Trucking for Millennials podcast for more insightful discussions with industry leaders like Alex Mai.

Welcome back to another episode of our podcast, where we dive deep into the world of logistics, leadership, and the personal journeys that shape the industry. Today, we had the pleasure of speaking with Robert Bain, also known as the "Strongest Man in Logistics," a title he earned not just through his physical prowess but also through his resilience and introspective journey during a challenging time.

• Leadership in Logistics: We discussed the evolving concept of leadership, especially as millennials are stepping into their prime leadership years. Leadership isn't about being the loudest or the most visible on social media; it's about guiding people from one point to another, especially when they can't do it alone.

• The Role of Mentorship: Robert emphasized the importance of having mentors like Trey Griggs and others who can offer support and guidance. In an industry as tough as logistics, having a support system is crucial for personal and professional growth.

• Coaching and Empowering Women: Robert is passionate about coaching, particularly for women in logistics. He believes in breaking down barriers and ensuring that women's voices are heard and valued in a male-dominated field.

• The Importance of Sales Skills: Regardless of one's role in logistics, Robert advises learning how to sell. Sales skills are essential and can't be automated, making them a key differentiator in the industry.

• Leadership Development: Robert teaches not just how to lead but also how to lead other leaders. He stresses that the best producers aren't always the best leaders and that leadership is about making everyone around you better.

• Broker Carrier Summit: Robert shared his involvement with the Broker Carrier Summit, an event focused on improving communication and relationships between brokers and carriers. The summit excludes shippers to focus solely on the dynamics between these two groups, fostering a better understanding and collaboration.

• Career Beginnings: Robert shared his journey from working with sports cards and memorabilia to the restaurant industry and eventually falling into logistics due to his keen eye for detail and understanding of value.

• Physical Strength and Recovery: After a significant injury, Robert found strength and a new perspective, leading to his moniker "Strongest Man in Logistics." He uses his experience to motivate and inspire others in the industry.

• Leadership Philosophy: Robert's approach to leadership is grounded in his experiences and the understanding that leadership is multifaceted. He believes in leading by example and empowering others to step into their own leadership roles.

This episode was a powerful reminder of the human element in logistics. Leadership, mentorship, and community are the pillars that can drive the industry forward. Robert Bain's story is a testament to the strength and resilience that lies within each of us, and how we can harness it to uplift others and create a more inclusive and effective logistics community.

Remember, whether you're lifting barbells or building business relationships, it's about the legacy you leave and the people you empower along the way. Stay tuned for more insights and stories from the front lines of logistics.

Welcome back to another episode of the Trucker for Millennials podcast. In this episode, we dive deep into the current state of trucking rates, the COVID-19 trucking rates that won't come back, and the recent Francis Scott Key Bridge tragedy.

Our conversation kicks off with a discussion about the ever-present issue of low rates in the trucking industry. We ponder whether we're waiting for the bottom to hit or if the industry simply fluctuates from one rate spike to another. The consensus seems to be that the golden days of COVID rates are long gone, and many truckers are feeling the pinch, especially those who entered the industry during the pandemic.

We had the pleasure of having Justin Martin on the show, a trucking industry veteran and social media expert. Justin shared his experiences from the Mid-America Trucking Show (MATS), highlighting the importance of networking and the value of in-person interactions. He also touched on the FMCSA sessions at MATS, where he had the opportunity to discuss pressing issues like lease purchase programs and the driver shortage myth.

Justin gave us a glimpse into the after-party scene at MATS, where the real magic happens. These informal gatherings are where industry professionals let their guard down and share insights, frustrations, and future plans. It's a place where you can hear about new ventures and get the inside scoop on the industry.

We also discussed the recent catastrophic event where a cargo ship collided with the Baltimore Bridge, causing it to collapse. This incident has led to significant supply chain disruptions, particularly for hazardous materials that were routed through the bridge. We talked about the impact on freight travel in the area and the importance of finding alternative routes.

Lastly, we addressed the conspiracy theories surrounding the bridge tragedy. We emphasized the need for factual information and cautioned against jumping to conclusions without evidence.

That's a wrap for this episode. We covered a lot of ground, from the state of trucking rates to the impact of unexpected disasters on the industry. Stay tuned for more discussions on the pulse of trucking and the people who keep it moving.

In this episode of the Trucker for Millennials podcast, we had the pleasure of speaking with Jamie Hagen, also known as Hell Bent Hagen, a seasoned trucker and owner-operator who has made significant strides in fuel efficiency and growing his trucking business, Hellbent Xpress. Jamie shared his extensive experience in the trucking industry, starting from when he was just 16 years old, and offered valuable insights into how owner-operators can improve their bottom line through fuel efficiency.

• Fuel Efficiency: Jamie emphasized the importance of fuel efficiency for owner-operators, noting that it directly impacts their take-home pay. He shared that the national average for fuel efficiency is around six and a half miles per gallon, and anything below that could mean a business is struggling. Jamie himself has achieved an impressive average of 9.2 miles per gallon over the year, even reaching up to 12 miles per gallon on certain hauls.

• Equipment Matters: According to Jamie, 70% of fuel efficiency comes from the equipment used. He advises investing in aerodynamic trucks and trailers and considering additional modifications to reduce mechanical and rolling resistance.

• Driver Impact: The remaining 30% of fuel efficiency is in the hands of the driver. Jamie suggests that drivers slow down to save fuel, as higher speeds significantly increase fuel consumption.

• Growing the Business: Jamie shared his journey from operating four trucks to expanding to twelve with the help of his wife, who manages the back office. He highlighted the importance of compliance, having a good accountant, and the benefits of his partnership with Mack Trucks, which allowed him to secure trucks even during shortages.

• Partnership with Mack Trucks: Jamie's relationship with Mack Trucks has been beneficial for both parties. He has been able to provide real-world feedback on their trucks' performance and fuel efficiency, and in return, he has had access to new trucks when they were scarce in the market.

• The Race to 11 MPG: Jamie recounted his friendly competition with another trucker, Joel Morrow, to see who could first achieve 11 miles per gallon in their truck. This challenge was turned into a promotional video by Mack Trucks, showcasing their commitment to fuel efficiency.

Jamie Hagen's story is one of passion, dedication, and smart business practices. His focus on fuel efficiency not only saves money but also contributes to a more sustainable trucking industry. For owner-operators looking to improve their operations, Jamie's advice on equipment choice, driving habits, and business management are invaluable. Join us next time for another great episode of Trucker for Millennials, where we continue to explore the ins and outs of the trucking industry.

In this episode you'll meet Jeremy Thone, Marketing Director for 3PL Systems and host of 3PL Live Podcast.

Throughout this conversation Jeremy shares numerous tips and insights about creating authentic content marketing and automating processes through AI and ChatGPT.

If you're looking to grow as a marketer and build a brand that stands out in freight and logistics, this episode is a definite don't miss!

We also discuss a recent article from FreightWaves that covers Truckers in British Columbia who hit overpasses may get 18 months in prison and be fined up to $100,000.

Enjoy!

In today's episode of Trucker for Millennials, we had the pleasure of speaking with Roo, a seasoned truck driver with a wealth of experience in the industry. Roo shared her journey from starting in agriculture to now hauling hazardous materials in the tanker division. She discussed the challenges and personal growth she's encountered, emphasizing the importance of mental health and community support within the trucking profession.

Roo's story began in 2016, where she cut her teeth in the agricultural sector, dealing with everything from manure to vegetables. She highlighted the opportunities for new drivers in agriculture, especially during harvest season. After a brief hiatus due to COVID-19 and homeschooling her children, Roo transitioned into the chemical side of trucking, which she finds more secure due to stringent regulations.

Throughout the conversation, Roo touched on the loneliness that can come with trucking and how social media and the trucking community have become invaluable resources for support. She also spoke candidly about the work-life balance struggles and the sacrifices made while on the road.

Roo also provided insights into the misconceptions about trucking, such as the unrealistic earnings expectations for new drivers and the challenges of owner-operator ventures. She also addressed the supposed driver shortage, suggesting that the issue might be more about retaining quality drivers than a lack of them.

We delved into the importance of staying positive and healthy on the road, with Roo sharing her personal battle with quitting soda and the trend of cooking in the truck to maintain a healthier lifestyle. She stressed the importance of being prepared for any situation, carrying essentials like water, food, and mechanical supplies.

The episode took a serious turn as we discussed the recent incident of a truck hanging off a bridge, a bridge Roo has driven across before. This led to a broader conversation about the dangers of trucking and the need for public awareness and mutual respect on the roads.

Roo's advice to aspiring truckers, especially women considering the profession, was to give it a try and see where the journey takes them. She encouraged taking the leap, as it can lead to unexpected personal growth and fulfillment.

In conclusion, Roo's story is a testament to the resilience and adaptability required in the trucking industry. Her experiences serve as a reminder of the importance of community, mental health, and self-care for truck drivers everywhere. Join us next time on Trucker for Millennials for more insights into the lives of those who keep our goods moving.

In this episode we get a masterclass of the business of roadside assistance from Corey of DOTRoadside a follow on X at @DOTRoadside! He has 35 years of industry experience and in this episode we talk about the ins and outs of his business including what a roadside call looks like from the roadside service perspective, predatory towing, how to keep yourself from needing a tow, building relationships with a roadside tech, what to do if you're interested in starting your own roadside business and much more!

Trucking and politics converged in an epic way last week with the news of a rumor of truck drivers boycotting loads headed to New York City.

The Transmitter portion of our show is dedicated to the implications of this story and if it is truly an organized refusual of loads or just a viral video turned opportunity for media to capitalize on the attention.

Then we have a conversation with John A Rogers, a freight broker in Georgia who's been in freight for around 5 years and in sales for much longer.

You'll get to know more about John, how he got into logistics and get his insight on what it takes to win in the freight game. If you're looking to boost your sales and business in 2024, you'll definitely want to check out this conversation!

Connect with him on LinkedIn!

In this episode, we had the pleasure of speaking with Lee and Lisa Schmitt.

Follow them as the document their loads across the country on their Facebook page, Trucking Across America w/ the Schmitts.

They shared valuable insights into the changing landscape of the trucking industry, particularly in relation to working with brokers and the impact of regulations like the ELD mandate. Lee and Lisa emphasized the importance of understanding the laws and regulations governing the industry and encouraged younger drivers to educate themselves on these aspects.

The Schmitts also discussed their experiences in hauling oversized freight, highlighting the unique and challenging nature of their work. They provided details about their truck and trailer setup, including the types of freight they typically transport, such as pipeline equipment, oil rigs, and large steel tubes.

Additionally, the conversation touched on upcoming advocacy efforts, potential regulatory changes, and the importance of drivers being actively involved in shaping the future of the industry. Lee and Lisa's dedication to educating and empowering fellow drivers was evident throughout the episode, showcasing their commitment to improving conditions and advocating for the rights of truckers.