Drive

Can your health keep up with the demands of life on the road? In this episode, Chelsea Faulkner connects with Stephen Kane, President of Rolling Strong, about building realistic health and wellness programs for people in trucking. Drawing from years behind the wheel and in leadership, Stephen shares how first-hand experience shaped his approach to supporting the workforce through fitness, nutrition, and mindset tools that fit the realities of the job. He explains why cookie-cutter programs fall short, how Rolling Strong removes barriers to healthy choices, and the role of empathy in creating a culture where well-being is possible for everyone in the cab or office. In this episode, you’ll hear about: How to create routines that work with a demanding schedule Why knowing your “why” makes lasting change possible Ways technology can make healthy decisions easier on the road Resources: Stephen Kane on LinkedIn HandledNow Website HandledNow on Facebook Chelsea on LinkedIn Episode Highlights: (00:00) Introduction (00:30) From hardship to finding purpose on the road (02:24) Lessons from decades across every seat in trucking (04:52) How health challenges inspired a new mission (06:29) Building a wellness platform tailored for the industry (12:09) Breaking barriers to healthy habits on the road (17:40) Tools that make wellness easier and more rewarding (25:22) Creating a culture that truly values its people (33:37) Signs someone feels supported in their work

Is your trucking career giving you the stability you deserve? On this episode, Chelsea Faulkner sits down with Tim Norlin, Vice President at Roehl Transport, to talk about the real impact of the freight recession and what drivers can do to stay steady through uncertain times. With decades in the industry, Tim shares hard-earned insight on navigating down markets, recognizing red flags, and finding the right carrier for the long haul. He explains how Roehl’s approach to recruiting and retention challenges the norm, why honesty up front matters, and what sets strong drivers apart when freight slows down. In this episode, you’ll hear about: How to spot a stable carrier before you make your next move Why work history matters more than ever in today’s market What it really means to be part of a team that values its drivers Resources: Tim Norlin on LinkedIn HandledNow Website HandledNow on Facebook Chelsea on LinkedIn Episode Highlights: (00:00) Intro (01:12) How Tim found his calling in trucking (03:13) The truth about recruiting and retention today(07:35) Why this recession feels different than past cycles(09:44) Advice for drivers when carriers shut down(12:59) The impact of job hopping on driver success(15:49) Building a team-first mindset in trucking(20:46) Celebrating 6 million safe miles behind the wheel(23:26) How to build real relationships with your drivers

Understanding the ins and outs of driver testing and background checks can make all the difference in a trucking career. For Marc Bourne and Grady Phillips, supporting drivers means building trust through transparency and clear communication around testing and background screening. In this episode, Chelsea Faulkner sits down with Marc Bourne, Vice President of Background Screening, Training, and Compliance Services at Workforce QA, and Grady Phillips, CRO at Workforce QA, who both bring a unique background to trucking, to explore how testing processes can be fair, straightforward, and driver-friendly. They discuss how companies can move beyond just ticking boxes to fostering honest, respectful relationships. You’ll hear them bust common myths about drug and background testing, explain why drivers should take charge of their own records, and share how ongoing education and advocacy help create a safer, better-informed trucking community. Marc and Grady stress the importance of treating drivers like people and giving them clarity about what’s tested and why it matters. In this episode, you’ll hear about: Why trust is the foundation of driver testing and records How to advocate for yourself with MVR, PSP, and background checks How digitization can improve the hiring process Resources: Grady Phillips on LinkedIn Marc Bourne on LinkedIn HandledNow Website HandledNow on Facebook Chelsea on LinkedIn Episode highlights: (00:00) Intro and background of Marc Bourne and Grady Phillips (00:07:00) Why trust matters between drivers and companies (00:14:00) The power of clear communication and candidate experience (00:16:00) Debunking common myths about background checks (00:22:30) Understanding MVR, PSP, and clearinghouse records (00:32:00) Keeping up with policy changes and regulations (00:37:00) How digital tools are changing testing and record keeping (00:39:00) Rapid fire: driver questions and redesigning testing (00:43:00) Making drivers feel supported, not singled out (00:44:30) How to connect with Marc and Grady

When was the last time someone really listened to you? For Erin Crawford, supporting drivers starts with trust, follow-through, and remembering the little things. In this episode, Chelsea Faulkner talks with Erin, Market Development Manager of HandledNow, about how to put drivers first, not just in words, but in action. From her early days in recruiting to becoming a trusted voice behind the scenes at HandledNow, Erin shares how small gestures, honest conversations, and showing up when it counts can turn into long-term relationships and career growth. You’ll hear how she connects with drivers across the country, builds trust in an industry where it’s often lacking, and why her approach isn’t just good business, it’s personal. In this episode, you’ll hear about: Why honesty matters more than a perfect pitch How to make drivers feel seen in a system that often overlooks them What advocacy looks like from someone who actually listens Resources: Erin Crawford on LinkedIn HandledNow Website HandledNow on Facebook Chelsea on LinkedIn Episode Highlights: (00:00) Intro (01:18) Starting out in recruiting and growing into a leadership role (03:08) Why relationships and trust matter in trucking (05:08) Giving drivers a second chance and seeing them succeed (06:25) Helping drivers grow beyond the road (06:45) Building trust from the very first call (08:09) Creating memorable touchpoints like newsletters and recognition (10:21) Why honesty matters more than sugarcoating (17:39) The Now Difference and empowering drivers through advocacy

Is your trucking career built to last? In this episode, Chelsea Faulkner talks with HandledNow CEO Zac Elsts about what it really means to build a long-term career in the trucking industry. Drawing from personal stories and experience spanning more than 10 years, Zac lays out a vision for drivers who want more than just a job, but purpose and pride in the work they do too. He opens up about what it takes to move forward when momentum feels lost, why respect in trucking starts with the basics, and how having a growth mindset fuels freedom on and off the road. In this episode, you’ll hear about: The importance of finding a mentor and being curious about your industry How to develop skills beyond just driving Why thinking like a “business partner” is key to longevity Resources: Zac Elsts on LinkedIn HandledNow Website HandledNow on Facebook Chelsea on LinkedIn Episode Highlights: (00:00) Intro (02:22) Starting a career in trucking (10:08) What new drivers should prioritize in their first few years (12:21) The importance of continuous skill development (13:34) Certifications and specializations that matter (15:12) How drivers can become valuable assets and grow their careers (21:09) Managing setbacks on the road (23:49) Building relationships for career growth and leadership opportunities (30:05) Practical steps for aspiring business owners

Is your recruiting strategy actually helping you retain drivers? Kameel Gaines, Founder of Rig On Wheels, joins Chelsea Faulkner of HandledNow for a conversation that cuts through the noise. With 15 years of industry experience, Kameel unpacks the real reasons drivers leave, what fleets are getting wrong about culture, and why marketing might be the missing link in your retention efforts. She shares how outdated mindsets are holding companies back, what it looks like when accountability and respect go hand in hand, and how fleets can rebuild trust by simply being honest about who they are and who they’re for. In this episode, you’ll hear about: Why culture must come before recruiting How social media has replaced the CB radio What it takes to rebrand trucking from the inside out Resources: Kameel Gaines's LinkedIn Rig On Wheels Website HandledNow Website HandledNow on Facebook Chelsea on LinkedIn Episode Highlights: (00:00) Intro (01:20) Kameel’s journey from sales to launching Rig on Wheels (04:33) How marketing missteps create recruiting problems (06:20) Why company culture has to come before hiring (08:20) The impact of generational shifts on the driver pipeline (10:38) Holding drivers accountable while building respect (14:34) Why fleets must meet drivers where they are on social media (24:24) Retention starts with knowing who you are as a company (28:19) Rebuilding trust with drivers who feel unheard

Are driver training programs helping - or just checking boxes? In this episode, Chelsea Faulkner of HandledNow sits down with Dr. Gina Anderson, CEO of Luma Brighter Learning and a leading voice in cognitive science and adult education. With over a decade of experience in the trucking industry, Gina shares what she’s seen firsthand: information overload, disconnected training, and missed opportunities to build trust. She discusses why traditional driver education is failing, how fleets can create more meaningful learning experiences, and what it takes to bridge the communication gap across generations and roles. In this episode, you’ll hear about: Why driver feedback is key to building trust How learning science can improve safety and retention The risks of AI when it replaces real understanding Resources: Dr. Gina Anderson's LinkedIn Luma Brighter Learning HandledNow Website HandledNow on Facebook Chelsea on LinkedIn Episode Highlights: (00:00) Intro (01:23) Dr. Gina Anderson’s path to Luma Brighter Learning (04:45) The problem with “check-the-box” driver training (06:20) Bridging generational learning gaps in trucking (08:07) Why fleets need to build trust with drivers (13:35) How content overload and tech create a loneliness loop (17:14) The promise and danger of AI in driver learning (28:09) Rethinking safety training through authentic education

Are you ready for a new season of Drive, where we get real about the challenges facing truck drivers today — and the practical steps we can all take to make this industry stronger? This season kicks off with a shift. Chelsea Faulkner is stepping into the host seat, and she’s bringing a fresh focus to the conversations ahead. In this first episode, Chelsea and Zac Elsts talk about what’s next for Drive — and why driver connection is at the heart of it all. From isolation and mental health to communication breakdowns and retention issues, it all circles back to one thing: how well drivers are connected — to their company, their community, and their own goals. Chelsea shares why that connection piece is personal for her and previews what’s ahead this season: conversations with industry leaders, stories that need to be heard, and real steps we can all take to improve how we support drivers from the cab to the C-suite. In this episode, you’ll hear about: Why driver connection is the key to solving retention and mental health challenges How industry changes, from policies to workforce expectations, impact drivers What drivers and companies can do to create stronger communication and support systems Resources: HandledNow Website HandledNow on Facebook Zac on LinkedIn Chelsea on LinkedIn Episode Highlights: (00:00) Welcome to the new season of Drive (01:08) What’s ahead: Key themes and conversations for this season (02:39) Industry trends impacting drivers today (03:57) Why driver connection is more important than ever (04:49) Actionable steps to strengthen connection in trucking (06:03) Where to follow and subscribe for updates

Are you ready to take control of DOT compliance and avoid costly mistakes? In this episode, Chelsea Faulkner of HandledNow talks with Brandon Wiseman, Founder of TruckSafe Consulting and an experienced DOT safety attorney. His wisdom is hard-won. His advice for drivers and fleet managers focuses on staying ahead of DOT compliance challenges, cutting violations, and avoiding costly fines and lawsuits. Brandon explains the most common violations, like speeding and log falsifications, and how to solve the root issues. In this episode, you’ll hear about: How to avoid common roadside inspection violations Why log falsifications happen and how to prevent them The importance of being proactive in safety programs Episode Highlights: (00:00) Intro (07:12) Brandon’s journey from attorney to TruckSafe founder (12:30) Top DOT violations and how to avoid them (18:40) Why education is key to compliance (25:10) Bridging the gap between drivers and carriers Resources: Brandon’s LinkedIn TruckSafe Consulting HandledNow Website HandledNow on Facebook Zac on LinkedIn Chelsea on LinkedIn

Are trucking companies stepping up to really support drivers? In this episode, Chelsea sits down with Jason Douglass, Vice President of Operations at James H. Clark & Sons, to talk about what it takes to build a trucking industry where drivers feel respected and valued. Jason’s not just about talk—he’s spent 18 years working his way up from local delivery driver to industry leader, and he’s all about keeping it real for drivers. Jason dives into how he’s tackling the issues that matter most to folks on the road. From launching Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) to help with mental health to creating better pay and benefits, he’s focused on what makes a real difference. He also shares how Project 61, an initiative built around driver health and wellness, is setting a new standard in the industry. Whether you’re behind the wheel, recruiting drivers, or managing operations, this conversation is about putting drivers first and making the job better for everyone. In this episode, you’ll hear about: Why honest recruiting and emotional smarts go a long way in keeping drivers around. How EAPs are helping drivers stay mentally strong and feel supported. What makes Project 61 a game-changer for health and wellness in trucking Resources: Jason’s LinkedIn James H. Clark & Sons HandledNow Website HandledNow on Facebook Zac on LinkedIn Chelsea on LinkedIn Episode Highlights: (00:00) Intro (06:58) Jason’s journey from delivery driver to VP of Operations (12:45) Why trust starts with honest recruiting (19:30) Supporting drivers through Employee Assistance Programs (26:00) Project 61 and improving driver health (32:10) Why supporting drivers is personal for Jason

No one is just a number, and no one exemplifies this more than the dedicated transportation professionals behind Wreaths Across America. In this episode, Zac and Chelsea are again joined by Courtney George, Director of Transportation and Industry Relations for Wreaths Across America, a non-profit organization committed to honoring and remembering veterans through the laying of wreaths during the holiday season, to discuss the company’s mission. Courtney shares the logistics and monumental efforts behind the initiative, highlighting the contributions of the trucking industry, the emotional stories that fuel their mission, and the growing community of volunteers, donors, and industry partners. She also discusses touching anecdotes, logistical challenges, and the joy of building a family-like community, ensuring that each veteran’s legacy is honored and remembered. Listen to learn how you can be a part of this noble cause, whether through volunteering, donating, or simply spreading the word. This episode is a tribute to the power of collaboration, respect, and remembrance. In this episode, you’ll learn: The heartfelt origins and mission of Wreaths Across America, a nonprofit dedicated to honoring veterans through the placement of wreaths on their graves The essential role the trucking industry plays in ensuring wreaths reach their destinations, with countless truckers and companies volunteering their time and resources Personal stories and experiences that emphasize the emotional impact of the organization's work on both the volunteers and the families of the veterans they honor. Resources: Wreaths Across America Courtney George’s LinkedIn Connect with Zac, Chelsea, and HandledNow: HandledNow’s website HandledNow’s Facebook page Zac’s LinkedIn Chelsea’s LinkedIn Jump into the conversation: (00:00) Welcome to Drive Podcast (06:21) Ensuring quality and fostering friendships in the trucking industry (07:00) Spending Thanksgiving together as a new family (13:11) Father's load supports community, family, and kindness (16:09) The Holiday begins with Wreaths Across America tradition (19:45) Supportive trucking industry solves problems collaboratively (22:37) Prompt confirmation for hauling loads and better planning (24:36) Honor loved ones through Wreaths Across America website

We all know that the trucking industry is male-dominated. But nothing beats a badass woman who completely transformed her life and now drives the world’s largest trucks. In this episode, Zac and Chelsea are joined by Kathy Tuccaro, a woman who beat all odds in a male-dominated field to become a true industry icon. Kathy shared her astonishing life story in this episode, from overcoming severe trauma and homelessness to driving the world's largest trucks. She also shares her passion for giving back through initiatives like “Operation Hydration” and the powerful impact of using one’s voice to break the chains of shame and guilt. Plus, get an inside look at her unique brand, "Designer Miner," and hear how she balances her tough-as-nails job with a creative side. In this episode, you’ll learn: Kathy Tuccaro's inspiring journey from homelessness and addiction to becoming a successful heavy equipment operator and motivational speaker. Kathy’s efforts in giving back to the community, including founding "Operation Hydration" to assist the homeless and creating educational resources for young girls and kids. The significance of using one's voice to combat shame and guilt and the transformative power of sharing personal stories to inspire and empower others. Resources: Woman Road Warriors Kathy Tuccaro’s LinkedIn Get Kathy’s book here Connect with Zac, Chelsea, and HandledNow: HandledNow’s website HandledNow’s Facebook page Zac’s LinkedIn Chelsea’s LinkedIn Jump into the conversation: (00:00) Welcome to Drive Podcast (08:47) Kathy’s jaw-dropping story from her younger years (12:18) Psych doctor advises addressing abuse and trauma (18:00) Midlife career change led to an unexpected path (21:51) How Kathy overcame doubt to succeed in heavy equipment operating (37:50) Empowering kids against abuse (48:44) Kathy’s book helped spread mental health awareness (50:27) Being authentic online can change industry narratives (55:22) How Kathy finds rest and play

The world of lease purchase programs can be tricky for truck drivers. Think about it… understanding the financial and operational aspects of leasing is similar to maneuvering a fully loaded rig through unpredictable terrain. In this episode, Zac and Chelsea are again joined by Brad Hackett, Director of Recruiting and Retention for C1 Transportation and a veteran with 15 years of trucking experience, to discuss the complexities of lease purchase arrangements. Brad shares the importance of building financial reserves before diving into lease purchase agreements, the impact of market fluctuations, and offers crucial tips on contract transparency and proper financial planning. He also emphasizes the need for honest recruiting practices, the challenges lease purchase drivers may face in 2024, and the different mindsets required for company drivers versus lease purchase drivers aiming for an owner-operator mindset. Listen to learn why research, proactive planning, and understanding industry dynamics are essential for success in lease purchase programs. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why Brad advises against immediately jumping into a lease purchase program without first building financial reserves for handling unforeseen expenses and emergencies The importance of understanding tax laws and proper financial planning essential for success in lease purchase programs. The various red flags and important considerations, such as pre buyout terms, equipment value, and transparency, when evaluating lease purchase contracts. The challenging market conditions facing lease purchase drivers in 2024 and the need for thorough financial commitment evaluation and market research before embarking on a lease purchase arrangement Resources: C1 Transportation Brad Hackett’s LinkedIn Connect with Zac, Chelsea, and HandledNow: HandledNow’s website HandledNow’s Facebook page Zac’s LinkedIn Chelsea’s LinkedIn Jump into the conversation: (00:00) Welcome to Drive Podcast (05:11) Panel seeks expert on lease purchase insight (09:26) Building financial cushion is key for success (12:21) Understand lease agreements before signing a contract (16:35) Benefits and drawbacks of leasing used trucks (18:16) Success long term is small but impactful (26:19) Understanding the different approaches to freight partnership (29:54) Recruiting focuses on positive, not negative aspects (32:25) Tough market for lease drivers in 2024 (35:46) Impact of lease purchase in trucking industry (37:49) Truck drivers' attitudes affect industry satisfaction

Have you ever considered switching your job to becoming a trucker? What’s holding you back? In this Road Reflection episode, guest Bill Babcock, a part-time trucker, shares his journey from being in landscape, to taking the leap to becoming a trucker. Did he regret it? Not at all. Bill shares the impact that truck driving has had on his life, his favorite on-the-road stories, and what it’s like to balance driving with other responsibilities. he also touches on the camaraderie within the trucking community, how to navigate changing regulations, and tips for younger generations contemplating a career in trucking. In this episode, you’ll learn: Bill Babcock's transition from the landscape business to part-time truck driving and how it has broadened his perspectives Insights into the importance of safety and mental health considerations for truck drivers from Bill's experiences and advice Connect with Zac, Chelsea, and HandledNow: HandledNow’s website - www.handlednow.com HandledNow’s Facebook page - https://www.facebook.com/handlednow1 Zac’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zachary-elsts-981953108/ Chelsea’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chelsea-faulkner-6673288b/ Jump into the conversation: 00:59 - Welcome to Road Reflections with Bill Babcock 05:25 Diverse truck drivers come from all over 09:28 Encouraging career change to truck driving profession 11:59 CB radio's usage has changed over time 14:50 Concerns about driverless trucks, improving truck technology 17:55 Emphasizing safe driving for well-maintained equipment 21:10 Closing

Truck drivers need to make healthy lifestyle choices to prevent health-related career setbacks. Think about it… preventative maintenance of physical and mental health is similar to the upkeep of trucking equipment. In this episode, Zac and Chelsea are joined by Dr. Mark Manera, CEO and Founder of Offshift, to discuss the importance of healthy lifestyles on the road. Dr. Mark shares why small, consistent changes like increasing your water intake and avoiding high-calorie drinks can make a world of difference in your career experience, the importance of regular medical check-ups, and practical ways to stay active while on the road. In this episode, you’ll learn: Strategies for truck drivers to make healthier lifestyle choices on the road The importance of preventative maintenance for truck drivers' physical and mental health Insights into the trucking industry's evolving focus on driver-centric policies and regulations The challenges and solutions for staying active and eating healthy while on the road, supported by community involvement and social media engagement Resources: Offshift Dr. Mark Manera’s LinkedIn Connect with Zac, Chelsea, and HandledNow: HandledNow’s website HandledNow’s Facebook page Zac’s LinkedIn Chelsea’s LinkedIn Jump into the conversation: 03:52 Embracing off-shift mentality for personal growth 09:03 Trucking attracts diverse and interesting individuals 09:56 Positive impact on driver health shared online 18:46 Trucking struggles 20:40 Choose zero-calorie drinks and prioritize physical activity 25:30 Trucking companies neglect driver health 26:53 Focus on small, consistent changes for success 30:48 Balancing act of healthy eating and indulgence 32:58 Reduced soda intake by switching to alternatives 37:12 Driver-specific solutions are crucial for engagement 46:03 Find ways to connect with others creatively 46:52 Reconnect with people, be vulnerable, open up 50:15 Encouraging vulnerability and empathy in management levels

The trucking industry is constantly changing, but what’s life like for a new-to-the-business trucker? Welcome to the first Road Reflection episode, where we speak with truck drivers on the road. Our guest is Andrew Becker, a truck driver based in Indianapolis, IN, who became a truck driver within the last five years and transitioned from the landscaping business to the logistics world alongside his family. Andrew shares his experiences, from surviving a near-fatal load mishap that taught him invaluable lessons about road safety to the challenges and triumphs of starting a trucking business from scratch. He also provides motivational tips on using downtime efficiently and even reveals his unique hobby of learning German on the go. In this episode, you’ll learn: Andrew’s experience transitioning from a family landscaping business to the logistics industry highlights both the challenges and successes encountered on the way How Andrew uses downtime effectively, such as learning a new language, to make the most of wait periods during his trucking job Resources: Compass Carriers: https://www.compass-carriers.com/ Connect with Zac, Chelsea, and HandledNow: HandledNow’s website - www.handlednow.com HandledNow’s Facebook page - https://www.facebook.com/handlednow1 Zac’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zachary-elsts-981953108/ Chelsea’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chelsea-faulkner-6673288b/ Jump into the conversation: 00:59 - Welcome to Road Reflections 01:32 - Introduction to Andrew and how he got into trucking 02:50 - The equipment Andrew started with in 2019 04:58 - His most memorable experience on the road 06:09 - The biggest challenge Andrew experienced when entering the trucking industry 09:14 - Advice for those who are starting in the trucking industry 12:31 - Challenges Andrew foresees in the future of trucking 14:05 - What Andrew loves the most about being a truck driver

Curious about what it really takes to start a trucking career? This episode of Drive pulls back the curtain on essential things you need to know as a first-year truck driver. This is your go-to guide for navigating the trucking industry’s many peaks and valleys, and for finding success behind the wheel. Joining us is Sean Horton with JobsinLogistics.com, a seasoned recruiter with a deep understanding of trucking operations, and Brad Hackett at C1 Transportation, an expert in driver support and recruitment. Together, they discuss finding the right fit and navigating your first year, the financial and emotional realities of the trucking lifestyle, how to set yourself apart as a professional candidate, and more. In this episode, you’ll learn about: Finding the Right Fit and Navigating Your First Year: How do you choose the best carrier for your needs, especially if you’re just starting out? The guests cover everything from realistic expectations, job stability, and the importance of a strong support system to help you hit the ground running. The Critical Role of Mental and Physical Health on the Road: Learn about the often-overlooked connection between your mental and physical well-being when you're out on the road, focusing on the importance of a structured support system, educating your loved ones about trucking demands, and planning for long-term mental wellness. Leveraging Social Media and Real Stories for Career Growth: How to use social media and online communities to connect with mentors and experienced drivers. Authenticity is key; find out how real driver stories and honest company cultures can guide you to make informed decisions and find career opportunities that match your aspirations. Resources: Brad Hackett’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brad-hackett/ More about C1 Transportation: https://c1transportation.com/ Sean Horton’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/seanhorton1/ More about JobsinLogistics.com: https://www.jobsinlogistics.com/ Connect with Zac, Chelsea, and HandledNow: HandledNow’s website - www.handlednow.com HandledNow’s Facebook page - https://www.facebook.com/handlednow1 Zac’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zachary-elsts-981953108/ Chelsea’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chelsea-faulkner-6673288b/ Jump into the conversation: 00:00 Introduction to Drive with hosts Chelsea Faulkner and Zac Elsts 05:53 Creating support systems for new CDL drivers. 09:21 Marketing struggles in the trucking industry. 13:01 Trucking industry offers diverse experiences and stories. 15:33 Understanding solid expectations setting yourself up for success. 17:05 Unfulfilled promises led to frequent job changes. 21:09 Cost of transitioning jobs for truck drivers. 24:49 Research training program, mentorship, OTR lifestyle impact 29:17 Long-term perspective needed in the trucking industry. 32:08 Prioritize safety and financial caution in trucking. 34:37 Social media connects helps find career direction. 38:00 Facebook groups offer valuable support for drivers. 41:28 Limited opportunities for student drivers, emphasis on experience. 44:35 High marketing spending and industry insight discussed. 50:37 Address mental health in transitioning to trucking. 51:34 Prepare loved ones for extended time away. 55:27 New driver advised on job search criteria.

Your mental health as a trucker is just as important as your physical health behind the wheel, but it often gets overlooked or pushed aside due to shame, fear, and a litany of other emotions that we often want to hide. As the first episode of Season 5, we could not have come out of the gate with a more important topic. Zac and Chelsea speak with Scott Busby, Director of Admissions at Praesum Healthcare, a leader in mental health and drug & alcohol treatment services along the East Coast. They discuss Praesum's programs that cater directly to truckers, including an intricate support system in person and online, the mental health challenges truck drivers face, and the interconnection between substance abuse and mental health. Scott shares some real-life stories from truckers and comments on the importance of employer support. In this episode, you’ll learn: The unique mental health challenges truck drivers face and the specialized resources available to help How interconnected the nature of substance abuse and mental health is, how it illustrates how drivers can fall into the trap of addiction and what steps they can take to recover The importance of understanding medication effects and the need for better education to prevent accidental violations Employer support and the steps you can take to ensure you get the help you need Resources: Praesum Healthcare: https://www.praesumhealthcare.com/ Scott Busby’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scott-busby-6a9044bb/ Scott Busby’s email: [email protected] Reach Scott via phone: 561-884-3869 Safe Harbor Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/safeharbormentalhealthsupportnetwork Connect with Zac, Chelsea, and HandledNow: HandledNow’s website - www.handlednow.com HandledNow’s Facebook page - https://www.facebook.com/handlednow1 Zac’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zachary-elsts-981953108/ Chelsea’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chelsea-faulkner-6673288b/ Jump into the conversation: 00:00 Welcome to Drive Season Five 01:00 Introduction to Scott Busby, Praesum Healthcare 07:02 Truck drivers' unique challenges and personal reflection 09:21 Providing comprehensive mental health care with dignity 13:59 Normalize second chances, support for employees' well-being 18:21 Supportive community providing mental health education 22:56 Perception of truck driving and changing attitudes 28:42 Media diversity is needed to avoid bias 30:09 Diverse treatment options for addiction recovery available 35:36 Stigma around mental health is improving 36:42 Encouraging conversation and support for mental health 40:57 Adapting to mental health treatment is challenging 44:14 Dealing with safety-sensitive issues in employment 48:26 Medical industry lacks education for medication effects

The world of trucking never stands still. Whether charging ahead at full speed or reversing to correct a missed turn, those wheels keep turning. Drive by HandledNow is here to accompany you on that journey, no matter how many miles lie ahead. Join Zac Elsts and his co-host, Chelsea Faulkner, for engaging in industry discussions that echo the classic CB radio chats of the past. Drive brings together trucking professionals from behind the desk and the wheel to provide valuable insights into the topics that matter most to today's drivers. Tune in during your next pre-trip and listen to conversations that understand your journey is as crucial as the destination. We’d love to be a part of it.

There are no bigger hearts than those of truckers. This year marks the 35th year of the Mother’s Day Make-A-Wish Convoy through Susquehanna Valley, and Convoy Committee Co-Chair Terry Finch speaks with Zac and Chelsea to mark this milestone year. Terry helps steer the largest truck convoy east of the Mississippi where they team up with truckers to fulfill wishes for kids battling life-threatening illnesses. Inserting incredible community spirit, this convoy has a million-dollar mission. Terry discusses the touching stories behind the impetus of the convoy, the event's festive activities, and how every mile you drive contributes more than just cargo—it delivers hope. In this episode, you’ll learn: Stories that showcase the incredible charitable spirit of the trucking community, proving that the road is about more than just logistics and deliveries. How to participate to help The Make-A-Wish convoy reach its goal of one million dollars. The ripple effect of the convoy experience and how a legacy has been created to impact the children and families involved. Resources: Make-A-Wish Foundation of the Susquehanna Valley Link to Register Link to Donate