The Freight Coach Podcast

Are you chasing unstable freight lanes instead of building predictable revenue? Are your sales efforts consistent enough to survive any freight market cycle? Dive into this episode to learn more! In this episode, I break down the following:  Lane stability — like the Fort Myers, Florida to Richmond, Virginia flatbed lane is a perfect example of how predictable pricing, strong carrier relationships, and reliable coverage create long-term success in freight brokerage and logistics operations.  Real market insights on outbound Florida freight, why paying carriers fairly secures capacity, and how focusing on dependable lanes beats chasing cheap trucks every time.  Freight broker sales strategy, including owning your local market, defining your ideal shipper profile, and committing to disciplined daily cold calling, follow-ups, and CRM-driven workflows that actually build pipeline momentum.  At the end of the day, success in transportation and supply chain sales isn't about market conditions — it's about consistency, operational discipline, and building trust with both carriers and customers to create repeat business and sustainable freight brokerage growth.   📊📉 Don't miss out on the latest market trends by subscribing to your TOP Transportation Morning Show! 🌎 🎬🎯 #TheFreightCoach Morning Show is LIVE every weekday at 10:30 AM CST to break down transportation industry headlines! Mark your calendars!   To Find Out More About My Freight Services Visit https://freightcoachlogistics.com/   🤝 Shoutout to my sponsors!👇 SPI Logistics | https://spi3pl.com/  Revenova | https://revenova.com/freightcoach/ NMFTA | https://nmfta.org/ DAT Freight & Analytics | https://www.dat.com/   Donate to support Stacy and her family: https://tinyurl.com/36xmxcmr   🚀🔥 To sign up for my Newsletter, go to http://eepurl.com/iNoHco, get in touch with me through the social media channels below, and subscribe to my YouTube Channel!👇   ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCjrL70IEnCfDkNaiYMar3jw 📷 https://www.instagram.com/thefreightcoach/  🕊️ https://twitter.com/thefr8coach  💼 https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-jolly-a183aa6a/

Are you using AI in freight brokerage efficiently, or are you still relying on outdated prospecting and carrier strategies? Listen to Iliana Filpo and Eric Jordan from SPI Logistics sharing how fresh perspectives, strong carrier relationships, and practical AI tools are reshaping modern transportation sales and operations! We talk about how leveraging AI for lead generation, customer outreach, and CRM integration is helping brokers move faster while staying personal, why committing 85% of freight to trusted carrier partnerships creates stability during capacity swings, and how honest communication with shippers builds long-term customer loyalty even when delays happen. If you want actionable insights on freight broker growth, carrier management, transportation technology, and building sustainable logistics partnerships, this episode delivers real-world strategies you can apply immediately!   📊📉 Don't miss out on the latest market trends by subscribing to your TOP Transportation Morning Show! 🌎 🎬🎯 #TheFreightCoach Morning Show is LIVE every weekday at 10:30 AM CST to break down transportation industry headlines! Mark your calendars!   To Find Out More About My Freight Services Visit https://freightcoachlogistics.com/   🤝 Shoutout to my sponsors!👇 SPI Logistics | https://spi3pl.com/  Revenova | https://revenova.com/freightcoach/ NMFTA | https://nmfta.org/ DAT Freight & Analytics | https://www.dat.com/   Donate to support Stacy and her family: https://tinyurl.com/36xmxcmr   🚀🔥 To sign up for my Newsletter, go to http://eepurl.com/iNoHco, get in touch with me through the social media channels below, and subscribe to my YouTube Channel!👇   ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCjrL70IEnCfDkNaiYMar3jw 📷 https://www.instagram.com/thefreightcoach/  🕊️ https://twitter.com/thefr8coach  💼 https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-jolly-a183aa6a/

In this episode, find out if reefer freight rates are finally stabilizing, and what tightening capacity, tariffs, and new labor rulings mean for brokers and carriers in today's market! I also dive into how shipping days, mileage accuracy, and educating customers directly impact freight costs and long-term broker success.  With the truck-to-load ratio tightening, capacity attrition and DOT enforcement could signal a market floor and gradual freight market recovery.  On top of that, proposed 15% tariffs are driving port volume spikes through inventory front-loading while reshaping domestic manufacturing and nearshoring strategies.  Finally, I discuss how recent unionization rulings could significantly impact small trucking companies, competition, and overall carrier sustainability in the evolving logistics industry!   📊📉 Don't miss out on the latest market trends by subscribing to your TOP Transportation Morning Show! 🌎 🎬🎯 #TheFreightCoach Morning Show is LIVE every weekday at 10:30 AM CST to break down transportation industry headlines! Mark your calendars!   To Find Out More About My Freight Services Visit https://freightcoachlogistics.com/   🤝 Shoutout to my sponsors!👇 SPI Logistics | https://spi3pl.com/  Revenova | https://revenova.com/freightcoach/ NMFTA | https://nmfta.org/ DAT Freight & Analytics | https://www.dat.com/   Donate to support Stacy and her family: https://tinyurl.com/36xmxcmr   🚀🔥 To sign up for my Newsletter, go to http://eepurl.com/iNoHco, get in touch with me through the social media channels below, and subscribe to my YouTube Channel!👇   ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCjrL70IEnCfDkNaiYMar3jw 📷 https://www.instagram.com/thefreightcoach/  🕊️ https://twitter.com/thefr8coach  💼 https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-jolly-a183aa6a/

Today, Jennifer Karpus-Romain from the Transportation Marketing & Sales Association (TMSA) joins the show for an inside look at how the TMSA ELEVATE Conference is reshaping transportation sales and marketing through five role-specific learning tracks focused on real-world case studies, measurable ROI, and practical networking that actually moves businesses forward! Jennifer and I also talk about why successful freight sales strategies now require a true multi-channel approach, combining cold outreach, digital content, AI-enabled efficiency, and strong human connection skills, to win in today's tech-driven logistics landscape, along with how ongoing post-conference content delivery and continuous professional development are becoming essential for long-term growth in freight brokerage, supply chain management, and transportation marketing. Register for the TMSA ELEVATE Conference: https://www.tmsatoday.org/elevate-global-marketing-summit-and-sales-summit    About Jennifer Karpus-Romain Jennifer is the Executive Director of the Transportation Marketing & Sales Association (TMSA), where she leads strategy, programming, and community for sales and marketing professionals across the logistics industry. Known for connecting people and ideas that actually move the industry forward, Jen focuses on the intersection of revenue growth, brand, and leadership inside transportation and supply chain organizations. Jen works closely with logistics companies to align sales and marketing, strengthen messaging, and build communities that convert into real business relationships. She's also the host of TMSA's On the Move podcast and a frequent industry speaker on leadership, storytelling, and the future of go-to-market in freight. At her core, Jen believes this industry runs on relationships, and she's made a career out of building rooms where the right people find each other.   Connect with Jennifer Website: https://www.tmsatoday.org/  Email: jennifer@tmsatoday.org  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenkarpusromain/   📊📉 Don't miss out on the latest market trends by subscribing to your TOP Transportation Morning Show! 🌎 🎬🎯 #TheFreightCoach Morning Show is LIVE every weekday at 10:30 AM CST to break down transportation industry headlines! Mark your calendars!   To Find Out More About My Freight Services Visit https://freightcoachlogistics.com/   🤝 Shoutout to my sponsors!👇 SPI Logistics | https://spi3pl.com/  Revenova | https://revenova.com/freightcoach/ NMFTA | https://nmfta.org/ DAT Freight & Analytics | https://www.dat.com/   Donate to support Stacy and her family: https://tinyurl.com/36xmxcmr   🚀🔥 To sign up for my Newsletter, go to http://eepurl.com/iNoHco, get in touch with me through the social media channels below, and subscribe to my YouTube Channel!👇   ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCjrL70IEnCfDkNaiYMar3jw 📷 https://www.instagram.com/thefreightcoach/  🕊️ https://twitter.com/thefr8coach  💼 https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-jolly-a183aa6a/

In this episode, we'll discuss flatbed market trends where seasonal rate stability continues with predictable spikes tied to construction demand and higher weekend freight rates caused by carrier shortages, the FMCSA CDL training crackdown targeting hundreds of non-compliant schools, and why overall trucking capacity remains high with excess trucks still in the market despite enforcement efforts.   I also address the rising broker fraud risks, including lessons from the AGX Freight situation, why stronger vetting and accountability are critical for protecting carriers and shippers, the new non-domiciled CDL compliance rules, and what brokers and carriers must do now to stay compliant and competitive!   Resources / References https://www.ttnews.com/articles/dot-targets-550-cdl-schools https://www.overdriveonline.com/business/article/15817385/agx-freight-goes-bust-stiffs-carriers-starts-new-mc https://www.freightwaves.com/news/fmcsa-issues-mandatory-non-domiciled-cdl-directive   📊📉 Don't miss out on the latest market trends by subscribing to your TOP Transportation Morning Show! 🌎 🎬🎯 #TheFreightCoach Morning Show is LIVE every weekday at 10:30 AM CST to break down transportation industry headlines! Mark your calendars!   To Find Out More About My Freight Services Visit https://freightcoachlogistics.com/   🤝 Shoutout to my sponsors!👇 SPI Logistics | https://spi3pl.com/  Revenova | https://revenova.com/freightcoach/ NMFTA | https://nmfta.org/ DAT Freight & Analytics | https://www.dat.com/   Donate to support Stacy and her family: https://tinyurl.com/36xmxcmr   🚀🔥 To sign up for my Newsletter, go to http://eepurl.com/iNoHco, get in touch with me through the social media channels below, and subscribe to my YouTube Channel!👇   ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCjrL70IEnCfDkNaiYMar3jw 📷 https://www.instagram.com/thefreightcoach/  🕊️ https://twitter.com/thefr8coach  💼 https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-jolly-a183aa6a/

Are you building carrier relationships strong enough to handle a tightening freight market? Are you locking in stable freight lanes before rates move?  Today, let's break down why the Atlanta to Des Moines reefer lane continues to deliver stable pricing, showing a $120 year-over-year increase and proving that core power lanes remain predictable despite market volatility and weather-driven capacity disruptions, how unseasonable Southeast snow impacted nationwide driver availability, why brokers shouldn't overreact to short-term rate swings, and how consistently pre-booking trusted carriers reduces risk, improves efficiency, and limits reliance on load boards.  With increased industry enforcement expected to reduce carrier capacity, transparency, honest communication, and strong broker-carrier partnerships will determine who maintains profitability. The brokers who prioritize trust, pass through accessorial pay fairly, and focus on long-term carrier relationships will secure capacity, protect customer service, and position themselves to win in the next freight market cycle!   📊📉 Don't miss out on the latest market trends by subscribing to your TOP Transportation Morning Show! 🌎 🎬🎯 #TheFreightCoach Morning Show is LIVE every weekday at 10:30 AM CST to break down transportation industry headlines! Mark your calendars!   To Find Out More About My Freight Services Visit https://freightcoachlogistics.com/   🤝 Shoutout to my sponsors!👇 SPI Logistics | https://spi3pl.com/  Revenova | https://revenova.com/freightcoach/ NMFTA | https://nmfta.org/ DAT Freight & Analytics | https://www.dat.com/   Donate to support Stacy and her family: https://tinyurl.com/36xmxcmr   🚀🔥 To sign up for my Newsletter, go to http://eepurl.com/iNoHco, get in touch with me through the social media channels below, and subscribe to my YouTube Channel!👇   ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCjrL70IEnCfDkNaiYMar3jw 📷 https://www.instagram.com/thefreightcoach/  🕊️ https://twitter.com/thefr8coach  💼 https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-jolly-a183aa6a/

In this episode, David Abell of AM Transport Services shares why mindset, disciplined sales activity, and owning your customer relationships are the real drivers of success in freight brokerage, regardless of market conditions! We talk about committing to 20 cold calls a day for 90 days, refining your freight sales process before hiring, and using a CRM system to manage prospects, track buying windows, and build a consistent sales pipeline. Dave shares why CEOs must own key shipper relationships, ask direct questions to prevent customer churn, and focus on controllable fundamentals like sales outreach, operational discipline, and service execution. We also dive into leadership development through the Freight Leadership Lab with the Transportation Intermediaries Association, designed to build next-level freight broker leadership skills through live training and real-world application!   About David Abell David Abell is the President and CEO of AM Transport Services, a 35-year-old freight brokerage headquartered in Olney, Illinois. With almost two decades of experience in transportation and logistics, David focuses on driving operational excellence, strategic growth, and innovative solutions for shippers across North America. He also serves on the Board of Directors of the Transportation Intermediaries Association (TIA), where he advocates for industry best practices, fraud prevention, and stronger collaboration across the supply chain. David is a veteran of Operation Iraqi Freedom and is passionate about leadership development, community impact, and building high-performing teams.   📊📉 Don't miss out on the latest market trends by subscribing to your TOP Transportation Morning Show! 🌎 🎬🎯 #TheFreightCoach Morning Show is LIVE every weekday at 10:30 AM CST to break down transportation industry headlines! Mark your calendars!   To Find Out More About My Freight Services Visit https://freightcoachlogistics.com/   🤝 Shoutout to my sponsors!👇 SPI Logistics | https://spi3pl.com/  Revenova | https://revenova.com/freightcoach/ NMFTA | https://nmfta.org/ DAT Freight & Analytics | https://www.dat.com/   Donate to support Stacy and her family: https://tinyurl.com/36xmxcmr   🚀🔥 To sign up for my Newsletter, go to http://eepurl.com/iNoHco, get in touch with me through the social media channels below, and subscribe to my YouTube Channel!👇   ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCjrL70IEnCfDkNaiYMar3jw 📷 https://www.instagram.com/thefreightcoach/  🕊️ https://twitter.com/thefr8coach  💼 https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-jolly-a183aa6a/

Today, we'll hear Sarah Miller of Ally Logistics breaking down what actually drives successful freight technology adoption inside a modern brokerage! Sarah discusses why vendor selection must prioritize high uptime, responsive customer support, mandatory pilot programs before signing contracts, and smart automation strategy in logistics, focusing on back-office tasks like freight audit and bill pay to increase efficiency while protecting the human relationships that win freight. The bottom line of the episode? Lean brokerage operations powered by the right technology can cut costs and allow smaller teams to compete at scale. If you want practical insights on freight tech, brokerage automation, vendor evaluation, and building real competitive advantage, this one delivers!   About Sarah Miller Sarah Miller is the Director of Business Solutions at Ally Logistics. In her time with Ally, she has supported the rapid growth of their tech stack from building out their new TMS Revenova, to agentic workflow automation with Sola. Alongside her role at Ally, she is also a member of the TIA technology committee. She is passionate about technology and the cultural shifts it takes to implement it.   Connect with Sarah Website: https://allylogistics.com/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahmadisonofficial/   📊📉 Don't miss out on the latest market trends by subscribing to your TOP Transportation Morning Show! 🌎 🎬🎯 #TheFreightCoach Morning Show is LIVE every weekday at 10:30 AM CST to break down transportation industry headlines! Mark your calendars!   To Find Out More About My Freight Services Visit https://freightcoachlogistics.com/   🤝 Shoutout to my sponsors!👇 SPI Logistics | https://spi3pl.com/  Revenova | https://revenova.com/freightcoach/ NMFTA | https://nmfta.org/ DAT Freight & Analytics | https://www.dat.com/   Donate to support Stacy and her family: https://tinyurl.com/36xmxcmr   🚀🔥 To sign up for my Newsletter, go to http://eepurl.com/iNoHco, get in touch with me through the social media channels below, and subscribe to my YouTube Channel!👇   ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCjrL70IEnCfDkNaiYMar3jw 📷 https://www.instagram.com/thefreightcoach/  🕊️ https://twitter.com/thefr8coach  💼 https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-jolly-a183aa6a/

Listen to this week's first guest, Ed Stockman of Optimus,  talking about how consistent pricing builds long-term shipper relationships, reduces customer churn, and creates predictable freight brokerage revenue instead of chasing volatile spot market rates! Ed also covers why new freight brokers must own their local market first and focus on known shippers and commodities before expanding, data-driven freight sales using real shipment data and tools like Optimus AI to identify active shippers, sharpen targeting, and eliminate wasted calls. If you want stronger freight sales execution, smarter prospecting, and scalable brokerage growth, this episode lays out the playbook!   Connect with Ed Website: https://www.getoptimus.ai/   📊📉 Don't miss out on the latest market trends by subscribing to your TOP Transportation Morning Show! 🌎 🎬🎯 #TheFreightCoach Morning Show is LIVE every weekday at 10:30 AM CST to break down transportation industry headlines! Mark your calendars!   To Find Out More About My Freight Services Visit https://freightcoachlogistics.com/   🤝 Shoutout to my sponsors!👇 SPI Logistics | https://spi3pl.com/  Revenova | https://revenova.com/freightcoach/ NMFTA | https://nmfta.org/ DAT Freight & Analytics | https://www.dat.com/   Donate to support Stacy and her family: https://tinyurl.com/36xmxcmr   🚀🔥 To sign up for my Newsletter, go to http://eepurl.com/iNoHco, get in touch with me through the social media channels below, and subscribe to my YouTube Channel!👇   ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCjrL70IEnCfDkNaiYMar3jw 📷 https://www.instagram.com/thefreightcoach/  🕊️ https://twitter.com/thefr8coach  💼 https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-jolly-a183aa6a/

Are floral freight rates the first warning sign of a tightening reefer market? Is Florida enforcement reshaping capacity faster than most carriers expected? Are you positioned for the Southeast produce surge before the peak season hits? Dean Croke of DAT Freight & Analytics is back to break down how Valentine's Day floral demand funneled through Miami pushed outbound freight rates up, why immigration scale house enforcement is cutting reefer capacity, and how the upcoming produce season will impact national trucking rates, refrigerated freight trends, and contract negotiations. We also dig into DAT freight data showing national rates higher year over year despite soft volumes, explain how seasonal demand shifts, tender rejection rates, and regulatory changes are driving spot market opportunities, and talk honestly about enforcement challenges affecting minority drivers while emphasizing compliance, industry integrity, and long-term freight market stability as capacity tightens and the trucking industry moves toward a more predictable recovery through 2026 for carriers, brokers, and shippers who stay informed and adaptable!   About Dean Croke Dean is the Prinicpal Analyst at DAT Freight & Analytics, the leader in market and pricing intelligence and operates the largest truckload freight marketplace in North America. He is a Global Supply Chain and Logistics Executive specializing in freight market analytics, multi-modal freight flows, thought leadership, and the application of business intelligence using digital technologies.    Connect with Dean Website: https://www.dat.com/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deancroke/  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@datfreight  DAT iQ Help Center: https://iq.support.dat.com/   📊📉 Don't miss out on the latest market trends by subscribing to your TOP Transportation Morning Show! 🌎 🎬🎯 #TheFreightCoach Morning Show is LIVE every weekday at 10:30 AM CST to break down transportation industry headlines! Mark your calendars!   To Find Out More About My Freight Services Visit https://freightcoachlogistics.com/   🤝 Shoutout to my sponsors!👇 SPI Logistics | https://spi3pl.com/  Revenova | https://revenova.com/freightcoach/ NMFTA | https://nmfta.org/ DAT Freight & Analytics | https://www.dat.com/   Donate to support Stacy and her family: https://tinyurl.com/36xmxcmr   🚀🔥 To sign up for my Newsletter, go to http://eepurl.com/iNoHco, get in touch with me through the social media channels below, and subscribe to my YouTube Channel!👇   ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCjrL70IEnCfDkNaiYMar3jw 📷 https://www.instagram.com/thefreightcoach/  🕊️ https://twitter.com/thefr8coach  💼 https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-jolly-a183aa6a/

Are fraud rings quietly manipulating the trucking industry? Are brokers relying too much on outdated Certificate of Insurance? And what happens when stricter DOT enforcement reshapes how freight moves across the country? In this episode, Cameron Pechia of Valley Trucking Insurance explains how organized trucking fraud - from chameleon carriers and fake insurance documents to criminal syndicates influencing CDLs, financing, and compliance - is forcing brokers and carriers to tighten verification processes and rethink risk management across the supply chain! We talk about why Certificate of Insurance is a weak proof without direct verification, how upcoming DOT regulations and increased enforcement may trigger short-term spikes in freight fraud, and why brokers should implement 30-60 day insurance and credential re-verification cycles to protect loads. Cam also dives into how stronger regulatory standards, better insurance verification practices, and real collaboration with trusted providers can help ethical trucking companies thrive while improving market stability, reducing carrier failure rates, and strengthening overall supply chain security.   About Cameron Pechia Cameron is the founder of Valley Trucking Insurance, a leading Trucking Insurance Agency based in Spokane, Washington. With a deep passion for the trucking industry and a commitment to excellence, Cameron has become a trusted figure in the field. Cameron also is the host of Get A Load Of This Trucking Podcast and brings a ton of value to the Trucking Industry. Cameron is also a dedicated husband and father to his two beautiful girls…His daughters are his "WHY" and what makes him get up in the morning and try to win each and every day.  At Valley Trucking Insurance, Cameron oversees the provision of specialized insurance solutions tailored to the unique needs of trucking companies. The agency serves a diverse clientele, including local trucking companies, long-haul trucking companies, aggregate haulers, tow truck companies, hot shots, freight brokers, and other related risks. Cameron ensures that clients receive the highest level of customer service and comprehensive coverage through the agency's proven process known as the "VTI Difference." Under Cameron's leadership, Valley Trucking Insurance has achieved significant growth and expansion across the county. The agency has built strong partnerships with renowned insurance providers such as Great West Casualty Company, Lancer Insurance Company, Progressive Insurance, Berkshire, and Canal. Additionally, Cameron also focuses on placing fleet-sized trucking companies into captive insurance programs, enhancing their risk management and financial stability. Looking ahead, Cameron is focused on an ambitious goal of expanding the agency's reach by looking to help over 10,000 Trucking Companies and Freight Brokerage operations within the next seven years. Adhering to the principles outlined in the book Traction by Geno Wickman, he is dedicated to creating world-class onboarding and customer service experience for his trucking clients. This initiative aims to foster a culture of excellence and continuous improvement, ensuring Valley Trucking Insurance remains at the forefront of the industry.   Connect with Cameron Website: https://www.valleytruckinginsurance.com/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cameron-pechia-49903072/  Email: Cameron@alllinesinsure.com   📊📉 Don't miss out on the latest market trends by subscribing to your TOP Transportation Morning Show! 🌎 🎬🎯 #TheFreightCoach Morning Show is LIVE every weekday at 10:30 AM CST to break down transportation industry headlines! Mark your calendars!   To Find Out More About My Freight Services Visit https://freightcoachlogistics.com/   🤝 Shoutout to my sponsors!👇 SPI Logistics | https://spi3pl.com/  Revenova | https://revenova.com/freightcoach/ NMFTA | https://nmfta.org/ DAT Freight & Analytics | https://www.dat.com/   Donate to support Stacy and her family: https://tinyurl.com/36xmxcmr   🚀🔥 To sign up for my Newsletter, go to http://eepurl.com/iNoHco, get in touch with me through the social media channels below, and subscribe to my YouTube Channel!👇   ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCjrL70IEnCfDkNaiYMar3jw 📷 https://www.instagram.com/thefreightcoach/  🕊️ https://twitter.com/thefr8coach  💼 https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-jolly-a183aa6a/

Are reefer rates finally stabilizing, or are short-term market spikes still catching brokers off guard? What does the FMCSA crackdown, rising broker liability risks, and labor disputes mean for your freight strategy right now? We talk real freight market analysis, customer relationship strategy during tight capacity, even when servicing loads at a loss, along with how FMCSA enforcement removing 2,000+ non-compliant carriers is tightening trucking capacity and forcing brokers and shippers to double down on carrier vetting, compliance checks, and risk management ahead of a major Supreme Court broker liability ruling.  I also dive into chameleon carriers, insurance scrutiny, and why proactive carrier audits are non-negotiable, then wrap it up with a frank look at Teamsters vs. UPS labor tensions and what it signals for transportation costs, trucking market trends, and long-term supply chain strategy, so you can stay sharp, stay compliant, and make smarter freight decisions in today's volatile logistics environment.   Resources / References https://www.ttnews.com/articles/dot-fmcsa-sweep-jan-2026 https://www.overdriveonline.com/regulations/article/15816683/fmcsa-investigating-chameleon-carrier-network-after-deadly-indiana-crash https://www.freightwaves.com/news/teamsters-union-sues-ups-to-block-buyout-offer-to-delivery-drivers   📊📉 Don't miss out on the latest market trends by subscribing to your TOP Transportation Morning Show! 🌎 🎬🎯 #TheFreightCoach Morning Show is LIVE every weekday at 10:30 AM CST to break down transportation industry headlines! Mark your calendars!   To Find Out More About My Freight Services Visit https://freightcoachlogistics.com/   🤝 Shoutout to my sponsors!👇 SPI Logistics | https://spi3pl.com/  Revenova | https://revenova.com/freightcoach/ NMFTA | https://nmfta.org/ DAT Freight & Analytics | https://www.dat.com/   Donate to support Stacy and her family: https://tinyurl.com/36xmxcmr   🚀🔥 To sign up for my Newsletter, go to http://eepurl.com/iNoHco, get in touch with me through the social media channels below, and subscribe to my YouTube Channel!👇   ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCjrL70IEnCfDkNaiYMar3jw 📷 https://www.instagram.com/thefreightcoach/  🕊️ https://twitter.com/thefr8coach  💼 https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-jolly-a183aa6a/

Are you relying too much on technology to win freight customers? Are cold calls and in-person meetings still the real drivers of freight brokerage growth in 2026? Today's guest, Travis Dodge of Wheelhouse Logistics, breaks down why personal outreach, consistent prospecting, and clear communication still outperform fancy tech stacks when it comes to freight sales, logistics business development, and long-term shipper relationships! We talk about how smaller, local freight brokers can compete with large national 3PLs by leveraging local market knowledge, fast response times, and personalized service that shippers actually value, plus why execution and communication are what keep customers loyal and freight operations profitable. We also get real about entrepreneurship in the freight industry, covering the grit, daily discipline, rejection management, and ownership mindset required to build a successful freight brokerage, along with actionable strategies like proactive carrier communication, invoice follow-ups, and consistent relationship building that drive trust, repeat business, and sustainable growth in today's competitive transportation and logistics market!   About Travis Dodge Travis began his career as an independent freight agent in 2014.  Starting from scratch, he built an extremely successful book of business, which included a team of sub-agents and account managers.  At his previous brokerage, he was the company's top agency six years in a row. After 10 years, Travis and his team launched Wheelhouse Logistics, a domestic freight brokerage which specializes in partial truckloads, temp-controlled LTL, and time-sensitive freight. Travis lives in Oakland, California with his wife, two kids, and mutt named Ted.   Connect with Travis Website: https://wheelhouselogistics.com/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/wheelhouse-logistics/ / https://www.linkedin.com/in/travisdodge/   📊📉 Don't miss out on the latest market trends by subscribing to your TOP Transportation Morning Show! 🌎 🎬🎯 #TheFreightCoach Morning Show is LIVE every weekday at 10:30 AM CST to break down transportation industry headlines! Mark your calendars!   To Find Out More About My Freight Services Visit https://freightcoachlogistics.com/   🤝 Shoutout to my sponsors!👇 SPI Logistics | https://spi3pl.com/  Revenova | https://revenova.com/freightcoach/ NMFTA | https://nmfta.org/ DAT Freight & Analytics | https://www.dat.com/   Donate to support Stacy and her family: https://tinyurl.com/36xmxcmr   🚀🔥 To sign up for my Newsletter, go to http://eepurl.com/iNoHco, get in touch with me through the social media channels below, and subscribe to my YouTube Channel!👇   ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCjrL70IEnCfDkNaiYMar3jw 📷 https://www.instagram.com/thefreightcoach/  🕊️ https://twitter.com/thefr8coach  💼 https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-jolly-a183aa6a/

If you're locking in the wrong contracts or risking your business with bad financing, this episode with Rob Misheloff of Smarter Finance USA explains why you need a smarter freight pricing strategy, cautious contract bids, and strong carrier relationships to stay profitable in today's volatile transportation market. Rob covers the current trucking financing challenges, from equipment costs doubling and tighter credit markets to the reality of personal guarantees, common predatory lending scams, and the financial mistakes first-time owner-operators make when they don't know their true cost per mile. We also discuss the best truck financing practices, including why OEM dealers should be your first stop, when banks make sense, and how trusted brokers can help when options get tight—so you can protect your cash flow, avoid risky contracts, and build a trucking business that actually lasts!   About Rob Misheloff Robert is the founder of Smarter Finance USA (Smarter Equipment Finance LLC). After spending 10 years running a marketing company that served equipment finance and small-business finance brands, he built Smarter Finance USA to address a recurring problem he saw across the industry: when small businesses couldn't access bank loans, many were pushed into opaque financing processes where critical details were unclear until late in the deal. Robert's work centers on helping business owners and commercial sellers understand the real terms behind equipment and commercial vehicle financing - how offers are structured, where costs hide, and how to protect against common traps such as rate/term misrepresentation, conditional approvals, fee stacking, and deposit scams. His insights have been featured in industry outlets including Manufacturing.net and Overdrive Online.   📊📉 Don't miss out on the latest market trends by subscribing to your TOP Transportation Morning Show! 🌎 🎬🎯 #TheFreightCoach Morning Show is LIVE every weekday at 10:30 AM CST to break down transportation industry headlines! Mark your calendars!   To Find Out More About My Freight Services Visit https://freightcoachlogistics.com/   🤝 Shoutout to my sponsors!👇 SPI Logistics | https://spi3pl.com/  Revenova | https://revenova.com/freightcoach/ NMFTA | https://nmfta.org/ DAT Freight & Analytics | https://www.dat.com/   Donate to support Stacy and her family: https://tinyurl.com/36xmxcmr   🚀🔥 To sign up for my Newsletter, go to http://eepurl.com/iNoHco, get in touch with me through the social media channels below, and subscribe to my YouTube Channel!👇   ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCjrL70IEnCfDkNaiYMar3jw 📷 https://www.instagram.com/thefreightcoach/  🕊️ https://twitter.com/thefr8coach  💼 https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-jolly-a183aa6a/

How are rising trucking insurance costs quietly driving up your shipping rates and overall freight market pricing? In this episode, Chris Loewenberg from Cottingham & Butler get real about trucking insurance, risk management, and why so many companies treat insurance like a fixed tax instead of a controllable business asset that can either protect or bankrupt your operation! From the dangers of static COIs and the urgent need for real-time insurance verification technology, to the impact of nuclear verdicts, new carriers, and rising insurance premiums on shipping costs and inflation, this conversation is all about practical freight brokerage insights and proactive strategies. We also cover how partnering with specialized trucking insurance providers, building stronger safety programs, and collaborating early with insurance partners can reduce uncovered freight risk, improve pricing, and give compliant carriers and brokers a serious competitive advantage in today's trucking industry!   About Chris Loewenberg Chris Loewenberg is a Vice President at Cottingham & Butler, the nation's largest independent insurance agency dedicated exclusively to the trucking industry. He leads inside sales and technology initiatives focused on small and mid-sized fleets, helping carriers navigate rising insurance costs, increasing complexity, and tighter underwriting scrutiny. With a background that blends sales leadership, insurance expertise, and technology innovation, Chris works at the intersection of trucking operations, risk management, and data strategy. He partners closely with leading technology vendors across the transportation ecosystem to improve how insurance information is collected, validated, and used—reducing manual re-keying, accelerating quote turnaround times, and strengthening trust between carriers, agents, underwriters, and technology providers. In addition to his leadership role, Chris oversees and helps develop Cottingham & Butler's intern and early-career talent programs, working closely with universities and athletic departments to introduce students to sales, insurance, and risk management careers. He is passionate about mentoring young professionals, building high-performing teams, and creating clear development paths from internship to full-time roles. ************************************************************** 📊📉 Don't miss out on the latest market trends by subscribing to your TOP Transportation Morning Show! 🌎 🎬🎯 #TheFreightCoach Morning Show is LIVE every weekday at 10:30 AM CST to break down transportation industry headlines! Mark your calendars!   To Find Out More About My Freight Services Visit https://freightcoachlogistics.com/   🤝 Shoutout to my sponsors!👇 SPI Logistics | https://spi3pl.com/  Revenova | https://revenova.com/freightcoach/ NMFTA | https://nmfta.org/ DAT Freight & Analytics | https://www.dat.com/   Donate to support Stacy and her family: https://tinyurl.com/36xmxcmr   🚀🔥 To sign up for my Newsletter, go to http://eepurl.com/iNoHco, get in touch with me through the social media channels below, and subscribe to my YouTube Channel!👇   ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCjrL70IEnCfDkNaiYMar3jw 📷 https://www.instagram.com/thefreightcoach/  🕊️ https://twitter.com/thefr8coach  💼 https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-jolly-a183aa6a/

Are you still treating maintenance as a last-minute repair instead of a long-term fleet strategy? Are mobile mechanics the missing piece to improving fleet uptime, reducing downtime, and controlling maintenance costs? Let's hear Chris Boyce from Coltrain Onsite Fleet Care speak about how the mobile mechanic industry is growing fast and creating real career opportunities for diesel technicians while helping fleets stay proactive with preventive maintenance that actually lowers the total cost of ownership. Chris dives into how aligning experienced technicians with the right fleets, using advanced diagnostic tools, and focusing on on-site service helps improve reliability, driver satisfaction, and operational efficiency across transportation and logistics, why tracking key fleet maintenance metrics like PM compliance and downtime is essential for optimizing performance and building strong vendor partnerships, and how Coltrain is expanding nationwide and actively hiring skilled technicians who want autonomy, career growth, and a chance to keep freight moving safely and efficiently!   About Chris Boyce Chris Boyce brings a rare blend of hands-on technical expertise and senior-level operational leadership to the fleet maintenance industry. He began his career as a technician, quickly distinguishing himself through a strong work ethic, technical excellence, and a natural ability to lead teams. After completing formal management training, Chris successfully combined his field experience with strategic leadership skills to drive performance, accountability, and long-term growth. Before joining Dickinson Fleet Services, Chris gained valuable experience at Ryder Transportation and within the heavy-duty truck dealer sector, beginning as an entry-level technician and working behind the wrench for 10 years, while developing a deep understanding of fleet operations, customer service, and large-scale maintenance environments. He worked his way up to branch manager, where he started his leadership journey. Following that, he served a seven-year tenure, including the last 4 years as General Manager, at Dickinson Fleet Services/Cox Automotive, where he built the foundation and led one of the company's most successful and productive regions, consistently delivering strong operational and financial results. Now serving as Regional Vice President at Coltrain Onsite Fleet Care, Chris is known for building high-performing teams, executing at scale, and leading with clarity and purpose. He is widely respected for his ability to align people, process, and performance, and he brings a proven track record of operational excellence to every organization he serves.   📊📉 Don't miss out on the latest market trends by subscribing to your TOP Transportation Morning Show! 🌎 🎬🎯 #TheFreightCoach Morning Show is LIVE every weekday at 10:30 AM CST to break down transportation industry headlines! Mark your calendars!   To Find Out More About My Freight Services Visit https://freightcoachlogistics.com/   🤝 Shoutout to my sponsors!👇 SPI Logistics | https://spi3pl.com/  Revenova | https://revenova.com/freightcoach/ NMFTA | https://nmfta.org/ DAT Freight & Analytics | https://www.dat.com/   Donate to support Stacy and her family: https://tinyurl.com/36xmxcmr   🚀🔥 To sign up for my Newsletter, go to http://eepurl.com/iNoHco, get in touch with me through the social media channels below, and subscribe to my YouTube Channel!👇   ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCjrL70IEnCfDkNaiYMar3jw 📷 https://www.instagram.com/thefreightcoach/  🕊️ https://twitter.com/thefr8coach  💼 https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-jolly-a183aa6a/

What's really happening with freight rates right now—and are you pricing your lanes the right way as capacity tightens? Are new regulations and insurance scrutiny about to reshape carrier operations in 2026?  Today, I break down real-time freight market trends, including stable reefer rates on the Kansas City to Minneapolis lane averaging around $1,285, and why day-of-week pricing strategies are critical for brokers managing customer expectations and protecting margins!  We dig into the rising Minneapolis outbound reefer demand nearing $2,300, the impact of tightening transportation capacity and increased tender rejections in January 2026, plus what Florida's potential $50,000 fines for undocumented drivers and growing compliance enforcement mean for carriers and insurance risk.  Be sure to listen to hear more about the "This Week in Freight" lane analysis segment, delivering actionable DAT-powered pricing insights to help brokers and carriers make smarter decisions, while reinforcing my core philosophy—disciplined pricing, transparency, and long-term relationship building are the keys to surviving competitive pressure and building a sustainable freight business in today's evolving logistics market!   References / Resources https://www.ttnews.com/articles/florida-fines-undocumented-drivers https://www.overdriveonline.com/business/article/15816204/will-insurers-drop-carriers-with-nonenglishspeaking-noncitizen-drivers https://www.freightwaves.com/news/transportation-metrics-show-further-tightening-in-january   📊📉 Don't miss out on the latest market trends by subscribing to your TOP Transportation Morning Show! 🌎 🎬🎯 #TheFreightCoach Morning Show is LIVE every weekday at 10:30 AM CST to break down transportation industry headlines! Mark your calendars!   To Find Out More About My Freight Services Visit https://freightcoachlogistics.com/   🤝 Shoutout to my sponsors!👇 SPI Logistics | https://spi3pl.com/  Revenova | https://revenova.com/freightcoach/ NMFTA | https://nmfta.org/ DAT Freight & Analytics | https://www.dat.com/   Donate to support Stacy and her family: https://tinyurl.com/36xmxcmr   🚀🔥 To sign up for my Newsletter, go to http://eepurl.com/iNoHco, get in touch with me through the social media channels below, and subscribe to my YouTube Channel!👇   ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCjrL70IEnCfDkNaiYMar3jw 📷 https://www.instagram.com/thefreightcoach/  🕊️ https://twitter.com/thefr8coach  💼 https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-jolly-a183aa6a/

In this episode, The Armchair Attorney Matt Leffler discusses the upcoming Supreme Court case involving C.H. Robinson and why its ruling could finally bring clarity to freight broker liability, negligent hiring claims, and federal preemption under the F4A! We talk about how conflicting court decisions have created uncertainty for brokers, why the industry relies on FMCSA data to vet motor carriers, and how a ruling against brokers could drive smaller players out of the market due to rising insurance and legal costs. Matt also covers the growing tension between state tort laws and federal regulation, the role of the US Chamber of Commerce, and what brokers must do right now to manage risk - strict carrier vetting, avoiding operational control over drivers, and staying within established protocols. This decision will shape broker liability, insurance requirements, and the future structure of the freight industry, and it's something every broker moving freight today needs to understand, so make sure to tune in!   About Matthew Leffler Matthew is a 3rd generation supply chain executive with over fifteen years of experience in safety, law, & maintenance. Matthew currently serves as Vice President of Strategic Accounts at Contract Leasing Corp. He is also an attorney that provides legal commentary on various supply chain issues & operates a popular podcast. In addition, Matthew has served as a senior leader with some of the nation's most admired maintenance, repair, & fleet management firms. Matthew entered the industry as an attorney defending trucking companies in civil litigation in 2010, but cut his teeth helping build & later selling his family's maintenance firm, Outsource Fleet Services, Inc. Matthew earned his J.D. from Michigan State University College of Law, Magna Cum Laude, and his B.A. from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. He is licensed to practice law in the State of Illinois; U.S. District Court, Northern District of Illinois; & 7th Circuit Court of Appeals. Matthew is the proud father of Michael, Rowan, Elise, & Elijah & has been happily married to his wife, Holly, since 2008.   📊📉 Don't miss out on the latest market trends by subscribing to your TOP Transportation Morning Show! 🌎 🎬🎯 #TheFreightCoach Morning Show is LIVE every weekday at 10:30 AM CST to break down transportation industry headlines! Mark your calendars!   To Find Out More About My Freight Services Visit https://freightcoachlogistics.com/   🤝 Shoutout to my sponsors!👇 SPI Logistics | https://spi3pl.com/  Revenova | https://revenova.com/freightcoach/ NMFTA | https://nmfta.org/ DAT Freight & Analytics | https://www.dat.com/   Donate to support Stacy and her family: https://tinyurl.com/36xmxcmr   🚀🔥 To sign up for my Newsletter, go to http://eepurl.com/iNoHco, get in touch with me through the social media channels below, and subscribe to my YouTube Channel!👇   ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCjrL70IEnCfDkNaiYMar3jw 📷 https://www.instagram.com/thefreightcoach/  🕊️ https://twitter.com/thefr8coach  💼 https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-jolly-a183aa6a/

Are you paying attention to the right lanes, the right technology, and the right relationships in this freight market?  In this episode, I break down why the Atlanta–Dallas lane remains one of the most stable in the country, holding between $1,350 and $1,450 with predictable seasonal spikes, and what that means for freight brokers managing tight margins! We also dig into how AI in freight brokerage is becoming a profitability driver, with companies like C.H. Robinson automating up to 90% of manual tasks to scale efficiently in a down market, how regulatory enforcement and falling carrier profits could trigger capacity exits and support higher rates, why fleets are slowing expansion, and how disciplined brokers can win.  Don't miss out on learning why mentorship from proven freight professionals is critical to avoiding costly mistakes and staying competitive over the next 12 to 24 months!   Resources / References https://www.ttnews.com/articles/ch-robinson-earnings-q4-2025 https://www.fleetowner.com/perspectives/ideaxchange/blog/55353313/roeth-how-finding-and-being-a-mentor-can-boost-your-trucking-career https://www.joc.com/article/schneider-q4-profit-weakens-but-company-pins-hopes-on-capacity-exits-6161427   📊📉 Don't miss out on the latest market trends by subscribing to your TOP Transportation Morning Show! 🌎 🎬🎯 #TheFreightCoach Morning Show is LIVE every weekday at 10:30 AM CST to break down transportation industry headlines! Mark your calendars!   To Find Out More About My Freight Services Visit https://freightcoachlogistics.com/   🤝 Shoutout to my sponsors!👇 SPI Logistics | https://spi3pl.com/  Revenova | https://revenova.com/freightcoach/ NMFTA | https://nmfta.org/ DAT Freight & Analytics | https://www.dat.com/   Donate to support Stacy and her family: https://tinyurl.com/36xmxcmr   🚀🔥 To sign up for my Newsletter, go to http://eepurl.com/iNoHco, get in touch with me through the social media channels below, and subscribe to my YouTube Channel!👇   ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCjrL70IEnCfDkNaiYMar3jw 📷 https://www.instagram.com/thefreightcoach/  🕊️ https://twitter.com/thefr8coach  💼 https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-jolly-a183aa6a/

If you're struggling to integrate legacy systems without killing visibility or choose the right TMS partner that actually delivers long-term value, tune in to this episode with Petra Nenickova from Legacy Supply Chain to know what real-world technology integration and digital transformation look like in today's freight environment across the US and Canada! From managing complex legacy systems and selecting flexible, integration-ready TMS platforms to driving user adoption through frontline involvement, practical training, and ongoing post-launch support, we get into how to evaluate vendors beyond polished demos, why system integrations like EDI and APIs are non-negotiable, how to prioritize core operations at go-live, and why clear communication and change management are the real drivers of ROI, visibility, and scalable freight technology success!   About Petra Nenickova Petra currently manages the transportation tech stack, including their TMS, and she led several TMS projects from early discovery all the way through implementation. These experiences have taught her a lot about what truly works, what doesn't, and how to guide teams through change with confidence. She's genuinely passionate about both technology and transportation, and she loves the challenge of making systems more effective in supporting real business processes while creating a positive user experience. With a background in both front‑line operations and management, she understands the everyday challenges people face and what makes technology genuinely useful. She thrives on connecting the dots, solving problems, and helping people work smarter through better processes and better technology.   Connect with Petra Website: https://legacyscs.com/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/petranenickova/   📊📉 Don't miss out on the latest market trends by subscribing to your TOP Transportation Morning Show! 🌎 🎬🎯 #TheFreightCoach Morning Show is LIVE every weekday at 10:30 AM CST to break down transportation industry headlines! Mark your calendars!   To Find Out More About My Freight Services Visit https://freightcoachlogistics.com/   🤝 Shoutout to my sponsors!👇 SPI Logistics | https://spi3pl.com/  Revenova | https://revenova.com/freightcoach/ NMFTA | https://nmfta.org/   Donate to support Stacy and her family: https://tinyurl.com/36xmxcmr   🚀🔥 To sign up for my Newsletter, go to http://eepurl.com/iNoHco, get in touch with me through the social media channels below, and subscribe to my YouTube Channel!👇   ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCjrL70IEnCfDkNaiYMar3jw 📷 https://www.instagram.com/thefreightcoach/  🕊️ https://twitter.com/thefr8coach  💼 https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-jolly-a183aa6a/