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Show overview

Trucker Talk Radio launched in 2025 and has put out 62 episodes in the time since. That works out to roughly 55 hours of audio in total. Releases follow a weekly cadence.

Episodes typically run thirty-five to sixty minutes — most land between 40 min and 1h 6m — though episode length varies meaningfully from one episode to the next. The publisher flags most episodes as explicit, so expect adult themes or strong language throughout. It is catalogued as a EN-language Business show.

The show is actively publishing — the most recent episode landed 2 days ago, with 19 episodes already out so far this year. Published by Jon Vogt.

Episodes
62
Running
2025–2026 · 1y
Median length
54 min
Cadence
Weekly

From the publisher

🚛🎙 Trucker Talk Radio with Jon & Justin 🎙🚛 Welcome to Trucker Talk Radio, where Jon & Justin break down everything trucking—and so much more! Whether you’re on the road or off, we’ve got you covered with real talk about: 🚛 Trucking industry news & insights 🏡 Life on the road & family balance 🏈 Sports talk & game breakdowns 🌦 Weather updates & road conditions 🇺🇸 Politics, current events & hot debates No scripts, no filters—just straight talk, real stories, and plenty of laughs. Tune in, join the conversation, and keep on truckin’! 📢 New episodes weekly! Follow & subscribe now! #TruckerTalkRadio #KeepOnTruckin #TruckingLife #RoadTalk #Sports #Politics #Weather

Latest Episodes

View all 62 episodes

AI, Fraud & Autonomous Trucks: Future of Freight with Megacorp's Russ Felker | Behind The Wheelhouse

May 13, 202654 min

Freight Data, AI & the Future of Trucking | Julie Van de Kamp on Behind The Wheelhouse

May 10, 202630 min

Building a Trucking Company the Right Way with Nick Isabella | Behind The Wheelhouse

May 8, 202641 min

Readi2Roll: Fitness & Nutrition for Truckers | Shamaira Gonzalez on Behind The Wheelhouse

Apr 25, 202631 min

Building Trust in Freight: LTL, Fraud & The Agent Model | Sean Klimson on Behind The Wheelhouse

Apr 21, 202651 min

The Future of Trucking Investment & AI Logistics | Richard Metzler on Behind The Wheelhouse

Apr 19, 202625 min

The Truth About Undocumented Drivers & Dalilah's Law | Shannon Everett on Behind The Wheelhouse

Apr 14, 202647 min

There Is No Driver Shortage? Trucking Market Explained | Jonathan Starks on Behind The Wheelhouse

Apr 13, 202629 min

S1 Ep 54How Freight Really Works: Margins, Trust & Fraud in Trucking | Steve Vest on Behind The Wheelhouse

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In this episode of Behind the Wheelhouse on Trucker Talk Radio, Steve Vest, Founder and CEO of Nationwide Equipment Transportation, joins the show to break down the realities of freight brokerage, carrier relationships, and the evolving trucking industry.Steve grew up in a trucking family, built his career from the ground up, and launched his brokerage in 2005—specializing in high-value, specialized equipment moves across the U.S., Canada, and beyond.Throughout the conversation, Steve offers a transparent look into how freight actually works—covering broker margins, why the average sits around 15%, and where the disconnect between carriers and brokers really comes from. He explains why chasing the highest-paying load every time can hurt long-term success, and why building relationships is the real key to consistent freight.The discussion also dives into some of the biggest challenges facing the industry today, including fraud, double brokering, and identity verification. Steve shares how technology, AI, and better vetting systems are starting to reshape how freight is booked—and why both brokers and carriers need to adapt.They also explore what separates top carriers from the rest: communication, professionalism, and consistency. From showing up prepared to leveraging technology correctly, Steve outlines exactly what makes a carrier stand out—and why those small details lead to more opportunities.If you're a truck driver, owner-operator, or broker trying to better understand how freight really works, this episode delivers a clear, experience-backed perspective from someone who has spent decades in the industry.Follow Trucker Talk RadioYouTube: https://youtube.com/@truckertalkradioTikTok: https://tiktok.com/@truckertalkradioInstagram: https://instagram.com/truckertalkradioX: https://x.com/trucktalkradioPowered by Ready AppThe driver-verification platform protecting brokers, carriers, and shippers from identity fraud, onboarding risks, and unsafe hires.Learn more at: https://ready-app.comSupport GreyCross.orgA 501(c)(3) supporting families affected by roadway tragedies across America.Donate at: https://greycross.org#trucking #freight #logistics #owneroperator #supplychain #cdl #truckerlife #broker #freightbroker #podcast #stevevest

Apr 11, 202643 min

S1 Ep 53Inside the Trucking Industry: Fraud, Growth & Hard Truths with Pamela Polyak | Behind The Wheelhouse

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In this episode of Trucker Talk Radio, Pam breaks down what most new trucking companies get wrong—from compliance and insurance to growth strategy and driver management. She shares how the boom of 2020–2021 brought a wave of new owner-operators into the space, many of whom weren’t prepared for the operational realities of running a business.The conversation dives deep into DOT audits, fraud in the industry, and why so many small fleets struggle to move beyond the 1–5 truck range. Pam also explains why education—not just driving—is the biggest missing piece in trucking today, and how her consulting business helps bridge that gap.They also explore the growing impact of fraud, the lack of driver-level verification systems, and why better infrastructure is needed to protect good operators. Pam makes a strong case for accountability, better systems, and rewarding drivers who do things the right way.If you're an owner-operator, small fleet owner, or thinking about entering the industry—this episode is packed with hard-earned lessons that could save you time, money, and stress.Follow Pamela:YouTube: @PamelaPolyakLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pampolyak/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pamelapolyak/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/polyaktrucking/https://polyakconsulting.com/Follow Trucker Talk RadioYouTube: https://youtube.com/@TruckerTalkRadioTikTok: https://tiktok.com/@truckertalkradioInstagram: https://instagram.com/truckertalkradioX: https://x.com/trucktalkradioPowered by Ready AppThe driver-verification platform protecting brokers, carriers, and shippers from identity fraud, onboarding risks, and unsafe hires.Learn more at: https://ready-app.comSupport GreyCross.orgA 501(c)(3) supporting families affected by roadway tragedies across America.Donate at: https://greycross.org#trucking #owneroperator #logistics #supplychain #freight #truckerlife #cdl #smallbusiness #entrepreneur #podcast

Mar 26, 202656 min

S1 Ep 52BearTheVoice3, The Realest Voice in Trucking | 37 Years on the Road to TikTok Fame | Drivers First

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In this episode of Drivers First on Trucker Talk Radio, BearTheVoice3—also known as Barry Mathews—joins Jon Vogt and Justin Holden for a raw and unfiltered conversation about life on the road, health, work ethic, and what trucking has become today.A retired driver with 37 years behind the wheel, Bear built a massive following on TikTok by simply telling it like it is. From cooking meals in his truck to sharing hard-earned life lessons, his authenticity has resonated with drivers across the country.Barry reflects on how trucking has evolved—from the days of multiple logbooks and long hauls with minimal oversight to today’s highly regulated environment—and why he believes the industry has lost trust in drivers. He also opens up about the physical toll of life on the road, including his battle with blood cancer and the reality that many long-haul drivers face serious health challenges.The conversation dives deep into:• The lack of healthy food options for drivers and its long-term impact• Why trucking culture has shifted over the decades• The importance of discipline, responsibility, and work ethic• The dangers of distracted driving and safety concerns on the road• Building a loyal audience on TikTok through authenticity• How Bear turned his content into a business with his seasoning brandBarry also shares a powerful perspective on family, sacrifice, and what truly matters after a lifetime on the road—reminding drivers that while trucking can define your career, it shouldn’t define your entire life.Follow BearTheVoice!TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@bearthevoice3Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bearthevoice3/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BearTheVoice3/YouTube: @BearthevoiceFollow Trucker Talk RadioYouTube: https://youtube.com/@TruckerTalkRadioTikTok: https://tiktok.com/@truckertalkradioInstagram: https://instagram.com/truckertalkradioX: https://x.com/trucktalkradioPowered by Ready AppThe driver-verification platform protecting brokers, carriers, and shippers from identity fraud, onboarding risks, and unsafe hires.Learn more at: https://ready-app.comSupport GreyCross.orgA 501(c)(3) supporting families affected by roadway tragedies across America.Donate at: https://greycross.org#trucking #truckdriver #truckers #truckerlife #logistics #freight #driversfirst #truckingtips #truckingtalk #cdllife #truckercommunity

Mar 17, 202648 min

S1 Ep 51GenLogs: Fighting Cargo Theft, Freight Fraud & Fake Carriers | Ryan Joyce on Behind The Wheelhouse

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In this episode of Behind the Wheelhouse on Trucker Talk Radio, Jon Vogt and Justin Holden sit down with Ryan Joyce, CEO of GenLogs, to discuss how real-world truck intelligence data is transforming freight visibility, fraud prevention, and carrier verification across the trucking industry.Ryan brings a unique background to logistics technology. Before founding GenLogs, he spent nearly two decades in the U.S. intelligence community, including time with the CIA running counterterrorism operations in the Middle East. That experience in intelligence gathering and data analysis ultimately led him to ask a simple question: why can we track airplanes and ships around the world, but not trucks moving across the United States?GenLogs was created to solve that problem.The company has built a nationwide network of roadside sensors and cameras that collect millions of data points on commercial truck movements every day. By combining that data with AI-powered analysis, the platform helps brokers, insurers, shippers, and carriers verify whether trucks are actually operating on the roads, detect fraudulent carriers, and identify potential safety risks.Throughout the conversation, Ryan explains how fragmented data across trucking has created blind spots that allow cargo theft, double brokering, and “chameleon carriers” to operate unnoticed. GenLogs aims to close those gaps by creating a real-world intelligence layer for freight movement.Topics covered in this episode include:• How GenLogs built a nationwide truck intelligence network • Why trucking lacks the visibility systems used in aviation and maritime • The rise of cargo theft, chameleon carriers, and freight fraud • How AI and roadside sensors are being used to monitor truck activity • Why insurers, brokers, and carriers are adopting freight intelligence tools • How GenLogs helps recover stolen trailers and missing equipment • The importance of data transparency for the future of freightRyan also discusses how freight technology platforms like GenLogs and Ready App can work together to bring greater verification and accountability to the industry — helping legitimate carriers and drivers compete while reducing fraud and operational risk.If you want to understand how data, AI, and intelligence gathering are shaping the next generation of trucking technology, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss.Follow Ryan Joyce: X: https://x.com/ryanjoycevoice LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanjoyce-/Follow GenLogs! LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/genlogs/ X: https://x.com/GenLogs Website: https://www.genlogs.io/Follow Trucker Talk Radio YouTube: https://youtube.com/@TruckerTalkRadio TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@truckertalkradio Instagram: https://instagram.com/truckertalkradio X: https://x.com/trucktalkradioPowered by Ready App The driver-verification platform protecting brokers, carriers, and shippers from identity fraud, onboarding risks, and unsafe hires. Learn more at: https://ready-app.comSupport GreyCross.org A 501(c)(3) supporting families affected by roadway tragedies across America. Donate at: https://greycross.org#trucking #logistics #freight #supplychain #truckingindustry #freighttech #genlogs #cargotheft #brokerage #trucker

Mar 11, 202637 min

S1 Ep 50How AI and Truck Data Are Changing the Trucking Industry | Paul Tonslager on Behind The Wheelhouse

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In this episode of Behind the Wheelhouse on Trucker Talk Radio, Paul Tonsager joins Jon Vogt and Justin Holden to discuss how real-world truck movement data is transforming freight visibility, insurance risk assessment, and fraud prevention across the trucking industry.Paul is a longtime transportation leader with decades of experience in rail, intermodal logistics, and global supply chains. A third-generation railroader, he has held leadership roles across the rail, shipping, trucking, and procurement sectors—including senior positions with Canadian National and Maersk—before transitioning into advisory work with logistics technology companies like GenLogs.GenLogs is building one of the most ambitious datasets in freight by collecting real-world truck movement intelligence through roadside sensors, satellite data, and AI-powered analysis. The platform allows brokers, insurers, and shippers to verify whether carriers are actually operating the lanes they claim—addressing one of the biggest problems in modern logistics: fraud, misrepresentation, and lack of transparency.Throughout the conversation, we explore how better data is reshaping freight operations, why trucking still lags behind other industries technologically, and how visibility tools could reduce cargo theft, improve underwriting decisions, and create a more trustworthy supply chain.We also dive into the broader evolution of transportation technology, including the legal and infrastructure challenges surrounding autonomous trucks and why meaningful adoption may still be decades away.Topics covered include:• Freight fraud and misrepresentation in trucking• How AI and camera networks track real truck movement• Why trucking technology lags behind other industries• Cargo theft, insurance risk, and supply chain transparency• The role of data in verifying fleets and lanes• Intermodal transportation and rail vs trucking dynamics• The future of autonomous trucksTechnology, transparency, and trusted data are becoming critical to the future of logistics—and tools like GenLogs are helping the industry move in that direction.This episode breaks down how those systems work and what they mean for brokers, carriers, insurers, and drivers.Follow Paul Tonsager!LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ptonsager/Follow GenLogs!LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/genlogs/X: https://x.com/GenLogsWebsite: https://www.genlogs.io/Follow Trucker Talk RadioYouTube: https://youtube.com/@TruckerTalkRadioTikTok: https://tiktok.com/@truckertalkradioInstagram: https://instagram.com/truckertalkradioX: https://x.com/trucktalkradioPowered by Ready AppThe driver-verification platform protecting brokers, carriers, and shippers from identity fraud, onboarding risks, and unsafe hires.Learn more at: https://ready-app.comSupport GreyCross.orgA 501(c)(3) supporting families affected by roadway tragedies across America.Donate at: https://greycross.org#trucking #logistics #freight #supplychain #truckdrivers #truckingindustry #transportation #freightbroker #logisticsindustry #truckers #supplychainmanagement #cargo #truckerlife #behindthewheelhouse #truckertalkradio

Mar 9, 202639 min

S1 Ep 49How Moovers Chicago Built a Premium Moving Culture | Daniel Iordan on Behind The Wheelhouse

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In this episode of Behind the Wheelhouse, we sit down with Daniel Iordan, Founder and CEO of Moovers Chicago, to discuss what it really takes to build a service-based logistics company in one of the most competitive moving markets in America.Daniel shares his journey from immigrating to the United States from Romania at 20 years old — without speaking English — to becoming a Chicago police officer and ultimately building one of the most respected moving companies in the Midwest.With over 450 licensed competitors in the Chicago market, Daniel explains how Moovers Chicago differentiates itself through culture, discipline, premium service, and leadership standards. From fleet maintenance and compliance to hiring for cultural fit over skill, this conversation dives deep into the operational and philosophical principles behind scaling a moving and logistics company the right way.We cover:• The reality of the American Dream through entrepreneurship• Hiring for fit vs. hiring for skill• Leadership responsibility and building team culture• Equipment strategy in urban logistics (box trucks vs. 18-wheelers)• Long-distance white glove moving services• The importance of maintenance and compliance in trucking• Operational challenges in high-turnover industries• Why blue-collar dignity and work ethic still matterMoovers Chicago provides local, long-distance, residential, storage, and premium relocation services — with a culture-first philosophy that drives their growth.If you’re in trucking, logistics, moving, or any service-based business, this episode delivers practical insights on leadership, culture, and long-term strategy.Follow Daniel Iordan:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniel-iordan-8a22262a9/Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/moovers-chicago-inc/IG: https://www.instagram.com/moovers_chicago/?hl=enWebsite: https://mooverschicago.com/Follow Trucker Talk RadioYouTube: https://youtube.com/@TruckerTalkRadioTikTok: https://tiktok.com/@truckertalkradioInstagram: https://instagram.com/truckertalkradioX: https://x.com/trucktalkradioPowered by Ready AppThe driver-verification platform protecting brokers, carriers, and shippers from identity fraud, onboarding risks, and unsafe hires.Learn more at: https://ready-app.comSupport GreyCross.orgA 501(c)(3) supporting families affected by roadway tragedies across America.Donate at: https://greycross.org#TruckingIndustry #MovingCompany #Logistics #Entrepreneurship #SmallBusiness #Leadership #FleetManagement #ChicagoBusiness #BlueCollar #BehindTheWheelhouse #TruckerTalkRadio

Feb 27, 202631 min

S1 Ep 48Making Private Flying Effortless with FlyHouse | Jack Lambert on Behind The Wheelhouse

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In this special episode of Behind the Wheelhouse, we step outside the trucking industry and into the world of private aviation.Jack Lambert, CEO of FlyHouse, joins Jon Vogt and Justin Holden to break down how technology, transparency, and culture are reshaping the private jet space — and why aviation and trucking have more in common than you think.Jack explains how FlyHouse eliminates broker friction, connects consumers directly with aircraft operators, and creates a community-driven ecosystem with over 2,000 aircraft on its platform. From splitting charter costs in-app to redefining safety standards and operational culture, FlyHouse is building a verification-first, transparency-driven model in an industry long dominated by middlemen.The conversation covers:Why private aviation lacks true barriers to entryThe hidden cost of “too many hands in the cookie jar”Culture vs. compliance in aviation safetyEntrepreneurial risk, lessons learned the hard way, and reputation in high-stakes industriesHow aspirational executives can access private aviation without being ultra-wealthyJack also shares a powerful story about losing nearly everything over a missed commitment — and the lesson that shaped his leadership philosophy: your word is everything.Whether you’re in logistics, aviation, or building your own business, this episode is about speed, trust, culture, and creating a frictionless experience at scale.Follow Jack LambertLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jlambert32/FlyHouse LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flyhouse/https://www.goflyhouse.com/Follow Trucker Talk RadioYouTube: https://youtube.com/@TruckerTalkRadioTikTok: https://tiktok.com/@truckertalkradioInstagram: https://instagram.com/truckertalkradioX: https://x.com/trucktalkradioPowered by Ready AppThe driver-verification platform protecting brokers, carriers, and shippers from identity fraud, onboarding risks, and unsafe hires.Learn more at: https://ready-app.comSupport GreyCross.orgA 501(c)(3) supporting families affected by roadway tragedies across America.Donate at: https://greycross.org

Feb 26, 202628 min

S1 Ep 47TJ Graff on Predictive Hiring, Driver Turnover & Second Chance Programs | Behind The Wheelhouse

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In this episode of Behind the Wheelhouse, we sit down with TJ Graff, CEO of Star Behaviors and a 22-year industry veteran, to break down one of the biggest structural failures in trucking: driver turnover.TJ drove for 22 years — including convoy missions in Iraq and Afghanistan — before transitioning into recruiting and behavioral assessment. His conclusion? Trucking doesn’t have a driver shortage problem. It has a hiring and system alignment problem.We discuss: • Why traditional qualification-based hiring fuels 75–125% annual turnover • The true cost of replacing a driver (over $12,000 per hire) • Predictive hiring vs. “meat in the seat” recruiting • Behavioral indicators that compliance checks completely miss • Safety, customer service, teamwork & personal accountability • Why drivers should be treated like customers • The SAP program & FMCSA Clearinghouse explained • What second chance programs should (and shouldn’t) look like • How Star Path raises the safety bar instead of lowering itTJ explains how behavioral assessments can identify drivers who are aligned with a company’s culture, freight profile, and long-term expectations — reducing churn, strengthening safety, and improving profitability.If the industry wants to reduce turnover, nuclear verdict exposure, and hiring fatigue, it may be time to stop moving faster — and start hiring smarter.🔗 Learn more about Star Behaviors: https://starbehaviors.com Follow TJ Graff on LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/tj-graff-700772a?originalSubdomain=mxFollow Trucker Talk Radio YouTube: https://youtube.com/@TruckerTalkRadio TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@truckertalkradio Instagram: https://instagram.com/truckertalkradio X: https://x.com/trucktalkradioPowered by Ready App The driver-verification platform protecting brokers, carriers, and shippers from identity fraud, onboarding risks, and unsafe hires. Learn more at: https://ready-app.comSupport GreyCross.org A 501(c)(3) supporting families affected by roadway tragedies across America. Donate at: https://greycross.org

Feb 16, 202638 min

S1 Ep 46How The Truck Parking Shortage Is Hurting Drivers & Fleets | Reed Loustalot on Trucker Talk Radio

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Truck parking is one of the most overlooked—and most damaging—problems in the trucking industry.In this episode of Behind the Wheelhouse, we’re joined by Reed Loustalot, Chief Marketing Officer at Truck Parking Club, to break down why the nationwide truck parking shortage is more than an inconvenience—it’s a systemic issue impacting driver safety, productivity, retention, and fleet efficiency.Reed explains how Truck Parking Club operates as a two-sided marketplace, helping truck drivers and fleets reserve reliable parking while allowing property owners to monetize unused space. With thousands of locations across nearly every U.S. state, the platform is addressing a problem that has forced drivers to park on highway ramps, in neighborhoods, or miles away from receivers—often cutting days short and increasing risk.Throughout the conversation, we dive into the real-world consequences of the parking shortage: lost miles, higher stress, unsafe parking, nuclear verdict exposure, and the hidden costs fleets absorb when drivers are forced to shut down early. Reed shares data on the estimated parking gap, explains why government-funded solutions alone can’t fix the problem, and outlines how leveraging existing infrastructure can scale faster and more affordably.The episode also explores how fleets are beginning to rethink parking as a strategic advantage—using reservable parking to improve asset utilization, reduce driver churn, and position equipment closer to customers. From owner-operators to large carriers, this discussion highlights how solving truck parking can unlock efficiency across the entire freight network.Behind the Wheelhouse is about the operational realities behind trucking—and the people building practical solutions that keep freight moving.Follow Reed & Truck Parking Club: X: https://x.com/lostisreed X: https://x.com/trukparkingclub LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/reedloustalot/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/truckparkingclub-com/Follow Trucker Talk Radio YouTube: https://youtube.com/@truckertalkradio TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@truckertalkradio Instagram: https://instagram.com/truckertalkradio X: https://x.com/trucktalkradioPowered by Ready App The driver-verification and onboarding platform built for today’s trucking industry—helping carriers, brokers, and agencies know exactly who’s hauling their freight. Learn more: https://ready-app.comSupport GreyCross A 501(c)(3) supporting trucking families affected by roadway tragedies across America. Donate at: https://greycross.org#BehindTheWheelhouse #TruckParking #TruckDrivers #TruckingIndustry #CDL #OwnerOperator #FleetManagement #Logistics #Freight #SupplyChain #Transportation #TruckSafety #DriverRetention #Infrastructure #TruckerTalkRadio #BlueCollar #AmericanWorkers

Feb 5, 202644 min

S1 Ep 45The Trucking Industry’s Biggest Mistake, IGNORING Its Drivers | Drivers First with Dewayne Rush

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Truck driving is one of the most essential jobs in the trucking industry—yet the voices of experienced truck drivers are often the least heard. In the premiere episode of Drivers First, a new series from Trucker Talk Radio, we sit down with Dewayne Rush, a veteran truck driver with more than three decades of experience behind the wheel. Dewayne has spent years as both a company driver and an owner-operator, building a reputation for professionalism, safety, and doing the job the right way. Currently driving for CNS Logistics, Dewayne shares what long-term commitment to a carrier looks like in today’s trucking industry—and why loyalty, trust, and accountability still matter for truck drivers navigating an increasingly challenging freight environment. He explains how maintaining equipment, respecting customers, and building real relationships can define a driver’s success just as much as miles and pay. Throughout the episode, the conversation dives into the real problems truck drivers face on the road today: high driver turnover, pressure from cheap freight, safety concerns, training gaps for new truck drivers, and the growing sense that truck driving experience is being undervalued. Dewayne also speaks candidly about changes he’s witnessed in trucking over the years—from automation and technology to language barriers and road safety—and why experience still matters when lives are on the line. From owner-operators to company drivers, this episode highlights what good truck drivers do differently—and why many experienced drivers feel pushed out of the trucking industry altogether. Drivers First is about real conversations with real truck drivers. Because the trucking industry only works when drivers come first. Follow Trucker Talk Radio YouTube: https://youtube.com/@truckertalkradio TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@truckertalkradio Instagram: https://instagram.com/truckertalkradio X: https://x.com/trucktalkradio Powered by Ready App The driver-verification platform protecting brokers, carriers, and shippers from identity fraud, onboarding risks, and unsafe hires. Learn more at: https://ready-app.com Support GreyCross.org A 501(c)(3) supporting families affected by roadway tragedies across America. Donate at: https://greycross.org #DriversFirst #Trucking #TruckDriving #TruckDrivers #TruckingIndustry #CDL #OwnerOperator #CompanyDriver #TruckingPodcast #TruckerTalkRadio #Freight #Logistics #Transportation #TruckersLife #BlueCollar #AmericanWorkers #SupplyChain #RoadSafety

Jan 25, 202634 min

S1 Ep 44Ron Strenger on How Job Hopping Can Hurt Truck Drivers & Onboarding Difficulties | Drivers First

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In this episode of Drivers First, we sit down with truck driver Ron Strenger for one of the most honest conversations we’ve had on the show. Ron shares his real journey into trucking—from leaving entrepreneurship behind, entering the industry through grant-funded CDL training, and navigating the hard realities of dispatch relationships, job hopping, and long stretches without work. This episode isn’t about perfection. It’s about accountability, self-awareness, and what it actually takes to survive—and grow—in today’s trucking industry. We discuss why frequent job changes can quietly derail a driver’s career, how reputation follows drivers through DAC records, and why many carriers hesitate to hire experienced drivers with unstable work histories. Ron also opens up about personal growth, stress management, and learning when to stand firm versus when to pick your battles. This conversation is especially important for: - New truck drivers entering the industry - Experienced drivers struggling to find stability - Owner-operators facing downtime and dispatcher issues - Carriers trying to understand driver turnover from the driver’s perspective Ron’s story is raw, unfiltered, and relatable—proof that trucking is as much about mindset and professionalism as it is about miles. Powered by Ready App Ready App helps drivers stay organized, prepared, and consistent—especially during job transitions. One profile. One DOT application. All documents in one place. Learn more: ready-app.com Supported by Grey Cross Grey Cross supports families affected by roadway tragedies, helping cover emergency expenses during times of sudden loss. Donate or learn more: greycross.orgRon Strenger's Phone Contact: 479-305-0550Follow Trucker Talk Radio YouTube: https://youtube.com/@truckertalkradio TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@truckertalkradio Instagram: https://instagram.com/truckertalkradio X: https://x.com/trucktalkradio

Jan 24, 202630 min

S1 Ep 43Mark Zimmerman on the Driver Shortage Myth, AI Doubt & Respecting Drivers | Behind the Wheelhouse

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In this episode of Behind the Wheelhouse, Jon and Justin sit down with Mark Zimmerman, a multi-generation trucking executive with decades of hands-on experience running a family-owned carrier. Drawing from his background and leadership at Zimmerman Truck Lines, Mark offers a candid, operator-driven perspective on some of the most misunderstood issues in trucking today. Mark challenges the widely repeated idea of a “driver shortage,” arguing that market fundamentals don’t support it. If there were truly too few drivers, rates would be rising—not falling. Instead, he explains how rate compression, poor standards, and misaligned incentives have distorted the conversation and weakened the industry. He also makes clear why he remains doubtful of AI and automation in trucking. While technology has a role, Mark believes the industry still depends on human judgment, communication, and accountability—especially when things go wrong. From breakdowns to negotiations to safety decisions, trucking continues to rely on people, not algorithms. Finally, the conversation turns to what Mark sees as the most critical missing piece in trucking today: treating drivers right. He shares firsthand examples and industry stories that highlight how often drivers are disrespected, misled, or treated as disposable—and why his company has taken a different approach. For Mark, respect, transparency, and dignity aren’t soft values; they are the foundation of retention, safety, and long-term success. Follow Mark: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-zimmerman-64995999/ https://www.facebook.com/markzimmerman71/ Follow Zimmerman Truck Lines: https://www.linkedin.com/company/zimmerman-truck-repairs/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/zimmerman-truck-lines-inc/ https://ztlinc.com/ Follow Trucker Talk Radio YouTube: https://youtube.com/@TruckerTalkRadio TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@truckertalkradio Instagram: https://instagram.com/truckertalkradio X: https://x.com/trucktalkradio Powered by Ready App The driver-verification platform protecting brokers, carriers, and shippers from identity fraud, onboarding risks, and unsafe hires. Learn more at: https://ready-app.com Support GreyCross.org A 501(c)(3) supporting families affected by roadway tragedies across America. Donate at: https://greycross.org #trucking #logistics #supplychain #freight #truckdriver #transportation #business #technology #ai #automation #leadership #workforce #jobs #economy #infrastructure #manufacturing #smallbusiness #entrepreneurship #podcast #transport

Dec 28, 202550 min
Copyright 2026 Jon Vogt