Last2First Podcast

Chairman & CEO Michael Kraus joins Jason Burns on Last2First to break down how Expak Logistics rebuilt from the ground up, including the bold choice to walk away from Amazon, shift to an asset-light managed transportation model, and scale nationwide through an agent network, strong SOPs, and obsessive operational discipline.If you’re building in the final mile / middle mile / retail distribution, this episode is packed with real operator insight: how to price intelligently, choose the right carrier partners, run clean launches, reduce noise for customers, and win long-term through consistency. 01:44 — Intro + meeting Michael Kraus in California 03:14 — Michael’s origin story: Wall Street → M&A → logistics 06:24 — The “printing + parcels” synergy that didn’t work 08:34 — Why logistics was the long-term bet 09:49 — Discovering X Pack Logistics (2011–2012) 11:24 — The bold reset: selling off ~80–90% of revenue 13:24 — The Amazon growth lesson: “not just any growth” 15:04 — X Pack today: nationwide coverage + agent network model 16:54 — Why customers trust them without owning assets 18:54 — How X Pack manages 50+ active partners (and a database of 800) 20:49 — Front-end analytics + the “one-pager” carrier package 24:04 — SOPs that actually get read + how they launch new programs 26:54 — Pricing guidance: art + science + capacity reality 29:24 — What makes a great carrier partner 30:49 — “Why do we exist?” accountability vs blaming subcontractors 33:09 — Private equity perspective: building long-term (no debt) 35:54 — Leadership shift: investor → operator lessons 37:54 — Writing SOPs for real-world execution (not “Wall Street lawyers”) 40:04 — AI in logistics: where it helps + where it doesn’t 42:54 — Sales = relationships: “email isn’t closing a deal” 45:44 — Parenting + coaching: delegation, mistakes, growth 48:54 — Competitive edge + “chip on my shoulder” mindset 50:54 — Quiet peak season = operational excellence 53:54 — Future of last mile: service, stability, and “quieting the noise” 57:04 — California risk (AB5 / classification) + being thoughtful 58:54 — “Last2First moment”: walking away from Amazon 1:00:54 — Closing thoughts + what X Pack is focused on next Guest: Michael Kraus/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-s-kraus-547a278/https://expak.com/👉 Subscribe on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@Last2FirstPodcast🎧 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3gDS58wo6IWeLl48LHukdP🍎 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/hn/podcast/last2first-podcast/id1778491941🏈 Join the Huddle: www.l2fhuddle.com📌 Shoutout to our Sponsors!Dropoff Inc.https://www.dropoff.com/info@dropoff.com+1 888-376-7633GigSafehttps://www.gigsafe.com/+1 407-496-9882Deliver Differenthttps://deliverdifferent.com/SCIhttps://sciadmin.com/

In this episode of the Last2First Podcast, Jason sits down virtually with Steve Bonnici, founder of Urgent Couriers and co-founder of Deliver Different  joining from **Auckland.Steve breaks down the real origin story: how his family’s transportation roots shaped his path, how Urgent Couriers evolved from traditional messenger work into major medical + routed logistics, and why a decision in 1995 to build custom technology became the biggest “last to first” catalyst of his career.You’ll also hear the behind-the-scenes story of scaling during COVID, building gig-driver infrastructure that actually performs, and how Deliver Different was born out of solving real operator problems not tech theory.If you’re a courier operator, dispatcher, or logistics founder trying to scale profitably, this is a must-watch.✅ Subscribe for more operator-to-operator conversations.👍 Like / Comment: What’s the #1 operational bottleneck holding your company back right now?⏱️ Chapters / Timestamps 02:00 – Intro (virtual episode + Steve joins from Auckland)03:15 – Urgent Couriers today: scale, revenue, market size (New Zealand)05:10 – Family roots in transportation (grandfather → coaches → ski field transport)08:05 – Starting Urgent Couriers in 1989: “They’re doing it badly — I can do it better”10:40 – The courier industry shift: documents → fax/email → new verticals12:35 – Early adoption: online booking in 1995 (before people were ready)15:05 – Why Steve built his own system (cost, necessity, scalability)18:10 – Independent contractors vs employees: productivity difference21:00 – Home delivery evolution: retailers resisted, then the market changed24:10 – Urgent Tonight / evening home delivery + the Uber Eats disruption27:25 – The operational spark: food box delivery + resource constraints30:10 – Building gig-driver tools: routing, training, onboarding, compliance34:30 – The performance surprise: new drivers + great tech beat “experienced” drivers37:10 – Scaling during COVID: 10K → 30K deliveries/week and visibility dashboards40:20 – Route building at scale: capacity, vehicle types, sequence optimization43:10 – Error elimination: scanning + pallet validation (reducing missorts)46:15 – Losing HelloFresh + the margin reality (why “cheaper” didn’t work)49:10 – Where the industry is going: specialized, high-integrity, high-value delivery52:10 – “Solve 10 apps on a phone”: the no-app portal for partner/agent deliveries55:10 – Steve’s “Last to First” moment: the 1995 tech decision57:00 – Wrap-up + conferences (Air Cargo, CLDA, ECA)🔗 Follow / Listen📺 YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@Last2FirstPodcast🎧 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3gDS58wo6IWeLl48LHukdP🍎 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/hn/podcast/last2first-podcast/id1778491941🏈 Join the Huddle: www.l2fhuddle.com📌 Shoutout to our Sponsors!Dropoff Inc.https://www.dropoff.com/info@dropoff.com+1 888-376-7633GigSafehttps://www.gigsafe.com/+1 407-496-9882Deliver Differenthttps://deliverdifferent.com/SCIhttps://sciadmin.com/

 Air freight compliance is one of the most misunderstood parts of the courier world, and it can cost you big if you get it wrong.In Episode 5, I sit down with Ralph Perrothers, Founder & CEO of On-the-Go Cargo (NY/NJ), to break down the real-world shift from expedited air freight to local on-demand after 9/11, how AOG (aircraft on ground) freight works, and the TSA compliance stack every operator needs to understand: IAC (Indirect Air Carrier), STA (Security Threat Assessment), training requirements, and agent compliance.We also get into a debate that matters more than people realize: courier vs carrier and what our industry should be calling itself.02:01 — Intro: Ralph Perrothers + On-the-Go Cargo03:26 — What OTG does: expedited air freight → local on-demand05:41 — Why air freight changed before/after 9/1108:11 — AOG (Aircraft on Ground): why urgency is REAL11:31 — Media logistics: “then vs now” (cases → digital)14:11 — Ralph’s origin story: starting at 17 + learning fast18:21 — The early career path (Choice → AAA → PDQ → GM)22:51 — Scaling a small courier: $500K → $3.5–$4M in ~2.5 years26:11 — Why hiring “close relationships” can burn you (hard lesson)29:11 — Building balance: complementary verticals (air + local + medical)32:06 — Day-to-day challenges: attendance, software, ops waves35:11 — XLA vs CLDA: what’s different (express vs cartage world)39:11 — Courier vs Carrier: why the words matter43:11 — TSA 101: IAC explained (what it is + why it exists)47:11 — STA + training requirements (and why fines happen)52:31 — Agent compliance + why the system needs modernization56:11 — Varu: what it is + how it helps (digital compliance + transfers)59:21 — The CLDA push: direct regulation, fewer silos, better verification01:04:21 — Personal side: fatherhood + priorities01:08:11 — Ralph’s “Last to First” moment(s)01:11:41 — Final takeaways + wrapGuest: Ralph Perrothers, Founder/CEO, On-the-Go Cargo https://www.linkedin.com/in/ralph-perrothers-96554bb/Markets: New York / New Jersey (expanding to Florida in early 2026)otgcargo.com👉 Subscribe on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@Last2FirstPodcast🎧 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3gDS58wo6IWeLl48LHukdP🍎 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/hn/podcast/last2first-podcast/id1778491941🏈 Join the Huddle: www.l2fhuddle.com 

What does it take to build a final-mile delivery network that covers every ZIP code in Arizona and scales into Nevada/Utah without relying on independent contractors?In this clip, Jason Burns sits down with Ken Reynolds, Founder & CEO of Accurate Cargo Delivery, to break down how an air freight cartage company evolved into a diversified final mile operation with ~95 vehicles, including 26’ box trucks and semis with liftgates, plus dedicated fleet replacement services for customers who don’t want the liability of owning trucks and managing drivers.Ken shares real operator lessons on:✅building route density (the “hook” account that starts it all)✅why Accurate is 100% W2✅service recovery and protecting your reputation✅safety-first culture (and why it’s non-negotiable)✅where AI fits in customer service without removing the human touch✅If you’re a carrier, 3PL, shipper, or final mile operator, this is a masterclass in scaling the “in-between” that keeps supply chains moving.Connect with Ken:https://www.linkedin.com/in/kenreynolds/accuratecargo.com01:54 Intro + why “the in-between” matters02:59 Accurate Cargo origin: air freight cartage → final mile03:59 Coverage: every ZIP in Arizona + parts of NV/UT05:04 Fleet size & equipment (box trucks, semis, liftgates)06:09 Final mile definition: residence, business, DC06:59 Why Accurate is 100% W2 (no ICs)07:59 Verticals served: HVAC, beauty, construction, grocery, hazmat09:04 Dedicated fleet replacement vs commingled routes10:19 Pricing approach: not one-size-fits-all (weight/distance/pallet)11:59 Building route density: the “hook” + rural routing strategy13:59 Ken’s origin story: real estate → trucking entrepreneur15:59 First big break: PetSmart freight + making it happen fast18:14 Responsiveness: cell phone mindset + reputation management20:04 Service recovery story (late-night delivery) + “hotshot” solution21:59 Culture shift: mentor vs manager + respect for drivers23:59 Safety as #1 (seatbelts, speed, hourly pay = slow down)26:04 Tech: driver cameras as exoneration + distraction prevention27:59 AI in customer service: automate the “robot work,” keep humans30:04 Book moment: “Your Next Five Moves” + critical thinking31:59 Last-to-First moment: hiring a COO + leading from 10,000 feet34:04 Close + how Accurate empowers drivers (quarterly 1:1s)📌 Shoutout to our Sponsors!Dropoff Inc.https://www.dropoff.com/info@dropoff.com+1 888-376-7633GigSafehttps://www.gigsafe.com/+1 407-496-9882Deliver Differenthttps://deliverdifferent.com/SCIhttps://sciadmin.com/Follow + Subscribe:📺 YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@Last2FirstPodcast🎧 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3gDS58wo6IWeLl48LHukdP🍎 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/hn/podcast/last2first-podcast/id1778491941🏈 Join the Huddle: www.l2fhuddle.com

New Episode! Ryan Cunningham transitioned from the medical field to building a fast-growing last-mile operation, and within about 18 months, she scaled Snaps Logistics to 40 drivers.In this episode, Ryan breaks down how she started with gig apps in a sedan, upgraded into larger vehicle capacity, landed contracts, managed growth pains (including driver issues and missed deliveries), and what she’s focused on next: warehousing, company vehicles, and government contracting.We also talk about real operator problems: pricing work correctly, handling wait time, building a driver Rolodex, and why systems (TMS, POD workflows, optimization) become non-negotiable as you scale.Connect with Ryan:📩 contact@snapslogistics.comSubscribe to Last2First on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@Last2FirstPodcastJoin the Huddle: www.l2fhuddle.comChapters / Timestamps (update once final edit is locked) 02:12 – Intro + Ryan’s journey into logistics 04:17 – What Snaps Logistics does (e-comm, medical, cargo vans/box trucks) 06:22 – Medical background → inspiration from “women in logistics” 09:17 – Getting her CDL + early over-the-road experience 12:22 – The moment that sparked entrepreneurship (LLC + business mindset) 15:12 – Starting with gig apps (Uber/Lyft, catering, auto parts, medical) 18:27 – Income reality early on + upgrading from sedan → SUV 21:17 – First driver hired (auto parts route) + learning contracts as she went 25:12 – How she scaled from 1 driver to 40 drivers 28:22 – Landing routes via LinkedIn + Jitsu partnership 32:27 – Real growth pains: driver issues, abandoned packages, pay complaints 36:22 – Expanding into Minnesota + managing ops remotely 40:22 – Profitability talk: stacking opportunities + what’s “worth it” 44:17 – Pricing, RFPs, wait time, and why operators need better tools 49:27 – Systems gap: no TMS yet + manual POD workflows 53:22 – Future vision: warehouse, company vehicles, government contracts 58:32 – LegalShield: protecting drivers/business owners (citations + contracts) 01:01:32 – Ryan’s “Last to First” moment + inspiring her sister’s success 01:04:22 – Wrap-up + how to connect with Ryan Keywords: last mile delivery, courier company, women in logistics, logistics entrepreneur, gig apps to contracts, delivery business scaling, fleet growth, route contracting, RFP pricing, warehousing, government contracts, Snaps Logistics, Ryan Cunningham, Texas logistics.📌 Shoutout to our Sponsors! Dropoff Inc.https://www.dropoff.com/info@dropoff.com+1 888-376-7633GigSafehttps://www.gigsafe.com/+1 407-496-9882Deliver Different https://deliverdifferent.com/SCIhttps://sciadmin.com/🎥 Watch, then drop a comment: What’s the #1 KPI you track weekly?Follow + Subscribe:📺 YouTube:   / @last2firstpodcast  🎧 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3gDS58w...🍎 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/hn/podcast...🏈 Join the Huddle: www.l2fhuddle.comGuest: Ryan Cunningham, snappzlogistics.comHost: Jason Burns, Last2First Podcast #Last2First #Logistics #AirFreight #Cartage #3PL #Courier #IndependentContractors #KPIs #RiskManagement #SupplyChainAsk

In Episode 44 of the Last2First Podcast, we sit down with Chris Bartley, COO of Fifth Dimension Logistics (New Jersey), to break down what it really takes to run a customized logistics operation from air freight cartage and contract logistics to scaling with an independent contractor (IC) model, managing peak-season uncertainty, and building a weekly KPI dashboard that keeps the business accountable and profitable.We also dig into a big one: broker vs motor carrier structures for IC fleets, why it matters for risk + insurance, and how rigid compliance platforms can create real friction for operators doing things the right way.02:00– Intro: Innovators moving the industry “from last to first”03:05 – Why Chris prefers the COO seat (and what it says about scale)05:10 – What Fifth Dimension Logistics actually does (customized logistics)07:05 – Cartage/air freight vs courier: “two different worlds”09:10 – The origin story: Atlantic Freight, XPO acquisition, and the spin-off12:10 – Why California + remote ops didn’t work (and the operator lesson)14:05 – The Vegas turnaround: giving the station to employees (factoring model)18:10 – Fleet breakdown: sprinters → 26’ box trucks → 53’ trailers20:45 – Growth during COVID: what changed and how they handled capacity24:10 – Why Chris protects speed: “no red tape” ops + fast RFP response27:10 – Air freight tariffs + average shipment economics (and why volume matters)31:35 – Peak season + tariffs: uncertainty, inventory surges, and consumer pressure35:10 – Broker vs motor carrier for IC fleets (risk, misclass, compliance friction)42:15 – Insurance + building requirements: why margins get squeezed46:10 – KPIs & dashboards: weekly pro forma P&L, cost controls, profit sharing52:20 – Automating reporting (bots, dashboards, real-time visibility)56:10 – “Last to First moment”: legacy, family business, and long-term outlook59:05 – Closing + how to connect with Chris / Fifth Dimension📌 Shoutout to our Sponsors! Dropoff Inc.https://www.dropoff.com/info@dropoff.com+1 888-376-7633GigSafehttps://www.gigsafe.com/+1 407-496-9882Deliver Different https://deliverdifferent.com/SCIhttps://sciadmin.com/🎥 Watch, then drop a comment: What’s the #1 KPI you track weekly?Follow + Subscribe:📺 YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@Last2FirstPodcast🎧 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3gDS58wo6IWeLl48LHukdP🍎 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/hn/podcast/last2first-podcast/id1778491941🏈 Join the Huddle: www.l2fhuddle.comGuest: Chris Bartley, COO Fifth Dimension Logistics (NJ) https://www.linkedin.com/in/bartleychris/  https://www.5dmlx.com/Host: Jason Burns, Last2First Podcast https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasongburns/#Last2First #Logistics #AirFreight #Cartage #3PL #Courier #IndependentContractors #KPIs #RiskManagement #SupplyChain

Last2First Family this episode is all about finding MORE volume… and more importantly, PROFITABLE volume.We are joined by Timur, Founder & CEO of Small Parcel (and host of Logistics Remix). Timur lives “in the middle” between shippers, 3PLs, and the carriers who actually execute the last mile. We break down what shippers care about, how small parcel pricing really works, why FedEx/UPS keep adding complexity, and how regional carriers can position themselves to win meaningful share.We also cover zone skipping (in plain English), carrier footprint expectations, the two biggest blockers in shipper onboarding (tech + legal), and what carriers should do right now to get in front of the right shippers.✅ If you’re a last-mile operator trying to grow smart, this one’s for you.Follow/Subscribe to Last2First:02:29 – Intro: finding profitable volume + why this guest matters03:34 – Timur’s origin story: Ohio State → Honda logistics analyst05:34 – Cutting teeth at CH Robinson (freight brokerage across modes)07:09 – Startup rocket ship: 20 employees → 1,000 + IPO in 4 years08:44 – uShip + Shipping Wars: the accidental media growth engine10:49 – LSO (regional parcel) + what Timur learned inside a carrier12:59 – The 2 biggest blockers in shipper onboarding: Tech + Legal15:39 – What SmallParcel.com does (“TurboTax for Shipping”)17:34 – The 3 savings buckets: better rates / carrier switch-add / claims & rebates19:39 – How Timur generates demand: LinkedIn + becoming the trusted expert22:34 – Carrier perspective: how to price opportunities when margins tighten25:09 – Market reality: more entrants, VC expansion, why bids got so competitive27:39 – Where regional/alternative carriers win: speed, niche, reliability29:09 – Zone Skipping explained (real-world example: LA → NY)31:49 – Minimum footprint: what shippers need for it to be “worth it”33:44 – FedEx/UPS reactions: surcharges, pricing knobs, dimensional rounding36:39 – What happens next: opportunity shift toward regional networks38:04 – If you’re a regional carrier: how to get in front of shippers (events + partnerships)40:34 – Timur’s “Last to First” moment: moving into product/tech at Echo42:39 – Wrap + Timur joins as a coach in the Last2First Huddle43:29 – Outro📺 YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@Last2FirstPodcast🎧 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3gDS58wo6IWeLl48LHukdP🍎 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/hn/podcast/last2first-podcast/id1778491941Join the community: Last2First Huddle → https://www.l2fhuddle.com💼 Connect with our guest:🔗 Timur Eligulashvili / https://www.linkedin.com/in/timureli/ 📌 Shoutout to our Sponsors! Dropoff Inc.https://www.dropoff.com/info@dropoff.com+1 888-376-7633GigSafehttps://www.gigsafe.com/+1 407-496-9882Deliver Different https://deliverdifferent.com/SCIhttps://sciadmin.com/

In this Off-Season Exclusive of the Last2First Podcast, Jason Burns sits down with Drew Kronick, former Founder & CEO of SDS Rx (now part of DHL Supply Chain) to unpack how he built a national healthcare last-mile platform, partnered with private equity, and ultimately sold to the largest logistics provider in the world.Drew shares his journey from growing up in a family delivery business to launching SDS Rx in 2009, scaling it to thousands of routes across all 50 states, leading in pharmacy, radio pharma, and health systems, and building the technology and culture that positioned SDS Rx as DHL’s missing capability in its global healthcare strategy.You’ll hear powerful lessons on leadership, risk, conviction, mission, values, and what it feels like to sit across from DHL as they show you where your company fits into their global 2030 vision. This conversation is a masterclass in focus, differentiation, and long-term thinking in the final-mile industry.💡 In this episode, we cover:How SDS Rx became a national healthcare last-mile powerhouseWhy technology partnerships and audit innovation set them apartHow mission, vision & values held a decentralized team togetherWhat institutional capital taught Drew about value creationWhy DHL saw SDS Rx as an essential capability acquisitionWhat founders need to know about multiples, strategy & exitsDrew’s advice on risk, family, conviction, and the real meaning of the entrepreneurial journey🎬 LIVE Film Study with Drew KronickWe’re taking this episode further with a deep-dive breakdown session:🎬 Film Study with Drew Kronick (former SDS Rx Founder + CEO) 📅 Tuesday, Dec 17 ⏰ 10:15 AM – 11:00 AM CST👉 Please click on the link and join the event (and activate your 10-Day Free Trial of The Huddle): https://www.l2fhuddle.comOne link. Join the event → Access The Huddle → Get your 10-day free trial.🎧 Subscribe to the Last2First Podcast:Apple Podcasts → https://podcasts.apple.com/hn/podcast/last2first-podcast/id1778491941 Spotify → https://open.spotify.com/show/3gDS58wo6IWeLl48LHukdP?si=gmhv7Lh8QvyY5xxFS9ZpPA

Ladies and gentlemen, Last2First family… we’re closing out Season 4 with a heavyweight.Jeff Thomas is the President & CEO of Priority Dispatch, a second-generation leader who helped turn a one-vehicle operation serving Procter & Gamble in 1973 into a nearly $100M regional powerhouse in the Midwest.In this Season 4 finale, we sit down in his hometown of Cincinnati, Ohio to unpack:✅The legacy of his father – a true pioneer and founding force behind the Messenger Courier Association (now CLDA)✅What it was like growing up in the family business, stuffing envelopes and sweeping warehouses for free✅How Jeff inherited a $4–5M company and bet big on banking, growing Priority to $10–12M with facilities across Ohio✅The real story behind the power struggle with his dad as growth, risk and vision started to collide✅How his father’s health crisis unexpectedly cleared the way for Jeff to lead – and forced him to build a smarter leadership team✅Why he embraces the idea that he’s a leader, not a micromanager, and hires people “a lot smarter than me”✅The Opportunity Matrix his team still uses today to evaluate every new deal so they’re not “just making deliveries for delivery’s sake”✅Why drivers – ICs and W-2s – are “not a means to an end, they are the end itself”✅How Priority has navigated banking, pharma distribution, healthcare and multiple reinventions over 50 years✅Why he’s resisted private equity and stayed privately held to better serve customers, associates and drivers✅His take on the future of last mile, local vs. national providers, and why he believes:“Bigger is not always better, but better is better.”If you’re in the last mile space and you want to get smarter, more profitable, and more intentional about the work you say “yes” to… this episode is loaded with game-changing insight.Apple Podcasts 🍎 https://podcasts.apple.com/hn/podcast/last2first-podcast/id1778491941Spotify 🎧 https://open.spotify.com/show/3gDS58wo6IWeLl48LHukdP?si=gmhv7Lh8QvyY5xxFS9ZpPA💼 Connect with our guest:🔗 Jeff Thomas- https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffrey-thomas-327807b/📌 Shoutout to our Sponsors! Dropoff Inc.https://www.dropoff.com/info@dropoff.com+1 888-376-7633GigSafehttps://www.gigsafe.com/+1 407-496-9882Deliver Different https://deliverdifferent.com/

Episode 40 – Daniel Gonzalez, President & CEO of US Messenger & Logistics Management Group + President of Olympic Logistics In this episode of the Last2First Podcast, Jason Burns sits down in Chicago with Daniel Gonzalez, a second-generation leader who now runs US Messenger, one of the dominant last mile providers in the Chicago market – and has recently acquired Olympic Logistics, a 3PL freight broker handling domestic and international freight. Daniel shares how he went from college bowler to “Swiss Army knife” in his family’s company – working the warehouse, dispatch, customer service, billing, routes and operations – before stepping into the role of President & CEO. He breaks down: ✅How US Messenger runs messenger intercept centers for over 30 buildings in downtown Chicago ✅Why tenants trust their packages from dock to desk with US Messenger ✅How their bike messengers (W2 employees) still move critical freight in brutal Chicago winters ✅What it means to staff mail centers for major law firms, hospitals and printing companies ✅The story behind acquiring Olympic Logistics and expanding into international shipments ✅Using a “say yes” mentality and a trusted agent network to service clients nationwide and abroad ✅The real challenges around insurance, risk, pricing and margins in last mile ✅Why Daniel thinks the barrier to entry in last mile is lower than ever – and what still separates real operators ✅How technology, data and AI are changing dispatch, visibility and customer expectations Daniel also reflects on his “last to first” moment – realizing that every envelope, specimen, cornea and file box has real human impact behind it, and why his mission is to make sure every order, every client and every employee matters. Apple Podcasts 🍎 https://podcasts.apple.com/hn/podcast/last2first-podcast/id1778491941 Spotify 🎧 https://open.spotify.com/show/3gDS58wo6IWeLl48LHukdP?si=gmhv7Lh8QvyY5xxFS9ZpPA 💼 Connect with our guest: 🔗 Daniel Gonzales - https://www.linkedin.com/in/danielgonzales89/ 📌 Shoutout to our Sponsors! Dropoff Inc. https://www.dropoff.com/ info@dropoff.com +1 888-376-7633 GigSafe https://www.gigsafe.com/ +1 407-496-9882 Deliver Different https://deliverdifferent.com/

What does it take to grow automotive delivery revenue from $300K to $1.6M in 90 days… and still sleep at night? In Episode 38 of the Last2First Podcast, Jason Burns sits down with Tony Carter, VP of Business Development at Principal Distribution and EVP of Axion Professional Solutions, to unpack a lifetime of lessons from the baseball field, the warehouse floor, and the final mile. Tony breaks down how he built winning teams, why “you cannot teach someone to care,” and how a 92 mph fastball to the face completely changed the trajectory of his life and career. He also shares how one simple website upgrade turned into 30% of all new business for a logistics company. If you’re a final mile owner, leader, or operator in the automotive or logistics space, this episode is packed with real stories, real scars, and real strategy. 🔑 In This Episode, You’ll Learn: ✅How Principal Distribution is building a powerhouse in automotive delivery across Texas and Arizona ✅Why Tony believes the ultimate competitive edge is simple: “Do they care?” ✅The mindset shift that came after getting hit by a 92 mph fastball ✅How he helped grow a tire distribution business from $300K to $1.6M/month in 90 days ✅Why automotive is such a resilient, underappreciated final mile vertical ✅The story of turning a one-page, outdated site into a lead engine driving 30% of revenue ✅What most final mile owners are getting wrong about marketing and budgets ✅How to hire, promote, and build teams that are truly committed—not just competent ⏱️ Timestamps / Chapters 1:48 – Intro: Welcome back, Last2First family 3:53 – Who is Tony Carter? Roles at Principal Distribution & Axion 7:58 – Moving to Austin, coming out of “retirement” & finding purpose 12:33 – Can you teach people to care? Building teams that actually give a damn 18:08 – Jason’s football story: the power of trust and buy-in 22:18 – Inside Principal Distribution & Maxim Direct’s next-day auto parts model 29:03 – Why automotive is a powerful, resilient final mile niche 35:28 – TireHub story: scaling from $300K to $1.6M/month in 90 days 41:53 – Bored as a successful entrepreneur: American Warehouses & the 2008 crash 46:58 – The 92 mph fastball that changed everything 52:48 – Lessons from college baseball & competing at the highest level 59:18 – Losing his brother & what real care looks like in life and business 1:05:03 – How one website drove 30% of revenue (and why your site is probably lazy) 1:11:28 – GWC, overpromoting people & putting talent in the right seat 1:16:08 – What final mile owners get wrong about marketing and investment 1:18:58 – Closing thoughts + where to find Tony 🎧 Listen & Subscribe: Spotify 🎧 https://open.spotify.com/show/3gDS58wo6IWeLl48LHukdP?si=gmhv7Lh8QvyY5xxFS9ZpPA Apple Podcasts 🍎 https://podcasts.apple.com/hn/podcast/last2first-podcast/id1778491941 YouTube ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/@Last2FirstPodcast 💼 Connect with our guest: 🔗 Tony Carter — https://www.linkedin.com/in/tony-carter-09520311/ 📌 Shoutout to our Sponsors! Dropoff Inc. https://www.dropoff.com/ info@dropoff.com +1 888-376-7633 GigSafe https://www.gigsafe.com/ +1 407-496-9882 Deliver Different https://deliverdifferent.com/

In this episode, Jason sits down with Jim Bernecker, President & Chief Sales Officer of Relay Express, to unpack how a regional courier scaled across Cincinnati, Dayton, Columbus, Cleveland, Detroit, Indianapolis, and Louisville—and how they balance on-demand, medical/pharma routes, and a large-vehicle distribution arm. You’ll hear how Relay built density with cross-dock operations, why they’ve supported the independent contractor (IC) model for 39 years, how they vet master contractors, and the playbook Jim uses to bid, price, and protect margins—even as gig platforms push prices down. We also get into ECA/CLDA marketplace strategy, compliance/chain of custody, and developing young talent for 24/7 operations. Direct quotes from Jim: “They handed me a pager, an atlas, and a Chamber of Commerce directory.” “First success was… a cross dock… sweep at 3:00 PM → sort → next-day by noon.” What you’ll learn ✅Building a hybrid carrier: on-demand, medical/pharma, and truck distribution Cross-dock economics: sorting, next-day by noon, returns & pallet (skid) costs ✅IC vs. gig: compliance, chain of custody, quality and margin impact ✅Master contractors: when they work, how to vet, and backups/overage ✅Route design & pricing: contribution margin by account, daily/weekly reviews ✅Enterprise expansion: how one customer pulls you into new markets (the right way) ✅ECA marketplace & CLDA advocacy: turning conferences into real revenue ✅Talent: hiring for curiosity/work ethic, college recruiting, 24/7 expectations 🎧 Listen & Subscribe: Spotify 🎧 https://open.spotify.com/show/3gDS58wo6IWeLl48LHukdP?si=gmhv7Lh8QvyY5xxFS9ZpPA Apple Podcasts 🍎 https://podcasts.apple.com/hn/podcast/last2first-podcast/id1778491941 YouTube ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/@Last2FirstPodcast 💼 Connect with our guest: 🔗 Jim Bernecker —https://www.linkedin.com/in/jim-bernecker-20932213/ 📌 Shoutout to our Sponsors! Dropoff Inc. https://www.dropoff.com/ info@dropoff.com +1 888-376-7633 GigSafe https://www.gigsafe.com/ +1 407-496-9882 Deliver Different https://deliverdifferent.com/

Episode 36 is OUT TODAY! Host Jason Burns sits down in Chicago with Assif Hussain, Founder & CEO of Great American Delivery Service, for an unfiltered look at last-mile entrepreneurship: the immigrant grind, that first dock-door win, riding out cash-flow pain, and the real math behind 3PL vs direct customers. Assif came to the U.S. with $40 and big dreams. He learned the streets from a map book, drove as an IC, then took the leap: company formation, insurance battles, a scary empty warehouse… and the first shipment that changed it all. Today his team of ~75 handles messengers/courier/expediting across Chicagoland and beyond (24/7/365). What we cover ✅From driver to founder: airport work, expediting and learning the craft ✅The “empty warehouse” chapter → when it finally paid the rent ✅Why the first big customer matters (and how he got it) ✅3PL vs direct: margin squeeze, control, and customer experience ✅Pricing pressures vs UPS/FedEx increases — how smaller carriers survive ✅TMS, communication, and the customer you lose when you don’t communicate ✅CLDA/ECA networking that actually turns into revenue ✅Leadership, responsibility, and keeping payroll safe when AR slips 👍 Like the episode, 💬 comment your biggest takeaway, and ↗️ share with your team. 🎧 Listen & Subscribe: Spotify 🎧 https://open.spotify.com/show/3gDS58wo6IWeLl48LHukdP?si=gmhv7Lh8QvyY5xxFS9ZpPA Apple Podcasts 🍎 https://podcasts.apple.com/hn/podcast/last2first-podcast/id1778491941 YouTube ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/@Last2FirstPodcast 💼 Connect with our guest: 🔗 Asif Hussain —https://www.linkedin.com/in/asif-hussain-3413a41ab/ 📌 Shoutout to our Sponsors! Dropoff Inc. https://www.dropoff.com/ info@dropoff.com +1 888-376-7633 GigSafe https://www.gigsafe.com/ +1 407-496-9882 Deliver Different https://deliverdifferent.com/

In this episode of the Last2First Podcast, host Jason Burns sits down with Joel Pinsky, CFO of Global Messenger & Logistics and the current President of the Customized Logistics and Delivery Association (CLDA). Joel’s journey is anything but traditional — from starting as a CPA, then becoming a restaurateur, to finding his way into the final mile industry through a consulting role that changed everything. Today, he leads one of the most respected logistics networks in the country and represents the voice of our industry through the CLDA. Jason and Joel dive deep into: 💡 How Joel’s financial background shaped the way he runs and scales his business 🚚 The evolution of Global Messenger — from messenger work to nationwide logistics solutions 👨‍👦 The realities of running a family business alongside his son 🤝 How CLDA networking creates million-dollar opportunities for members 📈 Why the future of the final mile depends on collaboration, innovation, and community If you’re in the logistics, courier, or delivery space — this episode is packed with insight, experience, and inspiration from one of the industry’s most respected leaders. 🎧 Listen & Subscribe: Spotify 🎧 https://open.spotify.com/show/3gDS58wo6IWeLl48LHukdP?si=gmhv7Lh8QvyY5xxFS9ZpPA Apple Podcasts 🍎 https://podcasts.apple.com/hn/podcast/last2first-podcast/id1778491941 YouTube ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/@Last2FirstPodcast 💼 Connect with our guest: 🔗 Joel Pinsky — https://www.linkedin.com/in/joel-pinsky-1a57b6194/ 📌 Shoutout to our Sponsors! Dropoff Inc. https://www.dropoff.com/ info@dropoff.com +1 888-376-7633 GigSafe https://www.gigsafe.com/ +1 407-496-9882 Deliver Different https://deliverdifferent.com/

This week Jason Burns sits down with Chuck Moyer — President of Task4Pros, CLDA Hall of Famer, and one of the most respected leaders in the final mile industry. With over 40 years of experience, Chuck has seen it all — from dispatching with wall cards and map books to leveraging AI, automation, and innovative labor solutions to scale businesses nationwide. In this episode, Chuck shares: ✅ How he scaled a company from $3M → $100M in revenue ✅ Why 1–2 hour delivery deserves more value than overnight shipping ✅ Lessons from private equity and large-scale growth ✅ The future of labor, warehousing, and Task4Pros’ on-demand staffing model ✅ Why embracing AI and innovation is the key to staying ahead If you’re serious about logistics, courier services, or supply chain innovation, this conversation is packed with insights you won’t want to miss. 🎧 Listen on your favorite platform: 🔗 Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/3gDS58wo6IWeLl48LHukdP?si=gmhv7Lh8QvyY5xxFS9ZpPA 🔗 Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/hn/podcast/last2first-podcast/id1778491941 📲 Follow our guest: LinkedIn: Chuck Moyer https://www.linkedin.com/in/crmoyer/ Company: Task4Pros https://www.task4pros.com/ 📌 Shoutout to our Sponsors! Dropoff Inc. https://www.dropoff.com/ info@dropoff.com +1 888-376-7633 GigSafe https://www.gigsafe.com/ +1 407-496-9882 Deliver Different https://deliverdifferent.com/ #Last2First #Podcast #FinalMile #Logistics #Task4Pros #AI #SupplyChain

Season 4 of the Last2First Podcast kicks off with Ryan Schwalbach, President at NOW Courier. Ryan’s journey as a second-generation owner is full of highs, lows, and tough decisions—including firing his largest customer just years after acquiring the company from his parents. In this conversation, Ryan shares raw insights on leadership, resilience, and navigating a courier business through change, growth, and eventual sale. Topics We Cover in This Episode: ✅Second-generation ownership in the final mile industry ✅Transitioning a family business to the next generation ✅Scaling operations with independent contractor drivers ✅Tough leadership calls and letting go of major accounts ✅Customer relationships, pricing power, and profitability ✅Navigating market shifts and industry pressures ✅The emotional side of acquisitions and ownership ✅Building resilience as a leader in uncertain times ✅Selling a courier business and what drives the decision ✅The future of the final mile: data, drivers, and leadership 🔥 Season 4 also introduces a brand-new segment: 🚛 Driving the Mile — ride-along with drivers for a ground-level perspective 👉 Don’t miss a single episode! Subscribe: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Last2FirstPodcast Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3gDS58wo6IWeLl48LHukdP?si=gmhv7Lh8QvyY5xxFS9ZpPA Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/hn/podcast/last2first-podcast/id1778491941 👉 Connect with our guest: Follow Ryan Schwalbach on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanschwalbach/ Follow NOW Courier: https://www.nowcourier.com/ #Last2FirstPodcast #FinalMile #Season4 #NOWCourier

n this Off-Season Exclusive, Jason sits down with Andy Tryba (Co-founder & CEO, Ionic Partners, the new owner of CXT Software) to answer the big questions: Why acquire CXT? What changes now? And where is last-mile tech headed next? We dig into: ✅How Ionic plans to double down on CXT’s product velocity (weekly releases, automated testing, AI-first engineering) ✅A vision for a truly autonomous TMS: automated dispatch, route optimization, and exception management at scale ✅Practical AI use cases you can deploy now (driver onboarding, training, proof-of-delivery with computer vision, proactive ops alerts) ✅Margin protection: consolidating tools, integrations, and data to lower software costs and boost productivity ✅Interoperability: small operators working seamlessly with big players via data transforms & APIs ✅Preparing for drones, AVs, and robotics—and why the winning stack will be horizontal and cloud-based ✅Talent: building elite, AI-native teams (globally) and a remote culture that actually works Who should watch: final-mile & medical courier owners, ops leaders, dispatch teams, and anyone rethinking their TMS, routing, or compliance stack.

In the third episode of our CUI Insurance mini-series, Jason Burns sits down with Tanner Owens, President of CUI Insurance Agency, to dive deep into trucking compliance, risk management, and how final-mile carriers can learn from trucking best practices. From CAB reports and FMCSA safety scores to workers’ comp E-Mod analysis, telematics, and return-to-work programs, this conversation breaks down what insurance carriers really look at—and how you can position your company as a “gold account” that wins better rates. In this episode, you’ll learn: ✅Why final mile delivery is starting to look more like trucking 🚚 ✅How CAB scores (unsafe driving, hours of service, maintenance) affect your insurability ✅The impact of workers’ comp E-Mods on your premiums—and how to fix costly errors ✅Why safety programs, telematics, and dashcams aren’t optional anymore ✅Smart strategies like composite rating that can stabilize your insurance costs ✅How CUI supports clients after the sale with stewardship reports, claims support, and fast COIs If you’re running a fleet—final mile, middle mile, or trucking—this is an episode you don’t want to miss. 👉 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more insights from industry leaders. #FinalMile #Trucking #Insurance #RiskManagement #LastMileDelivery

Welcome to our first international episode of Behind the Mile! 🌍 In this special Bahamas edition, Jason Burns sits down with Ceri Howells, CEO of CLX Logistics, to explore how the islands are redefining last mile logistics. From the historic role of MailBoats to pioneering new tech-driven solutions like DomesticFreight.com, Ceri shares how The Bahamas is solving challenges unique to island economies—and what global operators can learn from their approach. You’ll hear: ✅ Why controlling trade = real independence for The Bahamas ✅ How a $200 idea became a multi-million dollar logistics company ✅ The creative ways Bahamian operators use tech (hint: WhatsApp groups 👀) ✅ How DomesticFreight.com is unlocking faster, on-demand delivery between islands This episode is proof that innovation in the last mile doesn’t stop at borders. 👉 Subscribe for more episodes & insights: • Spotify → https://open.spotify.com/show/3gDS58wo6IWeLl48LHukdP?si=gmhv7Lh8QvyY5xxFS9ZpPA • Apple Podcasts → https://podcasts.apple.com/hn/podcast/last2first-podcast/id1778491941 Don't forget to follow Ceri and his team: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cerighowells/ https://clxnow.com/

Season 3 Finale with Mark Cossack (CEO, Priority Courier Experts). We dig into scaling a mixed fleet (“tissue samples to tractor trailers”), winning with on-demand dock trucks, lease-purchase programs, IC compliance, government affairs, and why “trends favor our industry”—but not the timid. Direct quotes from this episode: • “We can deliver freight at courier speed. They deliver freight at trucking speed.” • “You should not be afraid of stretching beyond your current capabilities.” • “Get your customer concentration down… you don’t want customers who are 50% of your revenue.” • “Trends kind of favor our industry… but what they don’t favor is the timid.” Subscribe & listen: 🎧 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3gDS58wo6IWeLl48LHukdP?si=gmhv7Lh8QvyY5xxFS9ZpPA 🍎 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/hn/podcast/last2first-podcast/id1778491941 Topics: on-demand vs routed, commercial margins, dock trucks & tractors, IC vs W-2, lease-purchase, safety/telematics, captives, PE-backed rollups, local direct sales in construction/manufacturing, risk & compliance. 📲 Follow Mark and Priority Courier Express 🔗 Website: https://shipwithpriority.com/ 🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/markcossack/ 📢 Connect with Our Sponsors 🚛 Deliver DFRNT – https://deliverdifferent.com/ 🛡 GigSafe – https://www.gigsafe.com/ 🚚 Dropoff – https://www.dropoff.com/ Hashtags: #LastToFirstPodcast #FinalMile #Courier #Logistics #OnDemand #Entrepreneurship #ICModel #RiskManagement #DockTrucks #Trucking