WHAT THE TRUCK?!?

Host Malcolm Harris brings the energy for another jam-packed Friday edition of What The Truck?! — where freight meets fire conversation. In This Episode: Ian Jefferies, President & CEO of the Association of American Railroads (AAR), gives us the inside track on: Rail safety and first responder training How policy modernization drives innovation Collaboration between truckers and railroads Combatting cargo theft and organized retail crime Kari Gonzalez, President & CEO of MXV Rail, breaks down how cutting-edge research and tech are transforming rail operations nationwide: Real-world innovation testing at the FAST facility Using AI and machine learning to prevent derailments Climate resilience and infrastructure upgrades How she went from intern to CEO — and why Michael Jordan still reigns supreme Plus, Malcolm dives into this week’s headlines:  Insurance crackdowns on non-domiciled CDLs  Half a million dollars in stolen Nikes?!  A million-dollar tequila heist — where’s Guy Fieri’s stash?  Freight capacity vs. demand and what it means for rates  Craig Fuller drops his new book “Moving the World” Watch on YouTube Visit our sponsor Subscribe to the WTT newsletter Apple Podcasts Spotify More FreightWaves Podcasts #WHATTHETRUCK #FreightNews #supplychain Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Host Malcolm Harris is back with another powerhouse lineup on What The Truck?!? This episode dives deep into the latest freight market volatility, data-driven decision-making, and the innovations shaping the future of logistics. Guests: David Spencer, VP of Market Intelligence at Arrive Logistics — breaks down rate volatility, market disruptions, and how Arrive’s data models are adapting to regulatory shifts. Zach Strickland, Head of Freight Market Intelligence at SONAR — explains the sudden spot rate surges, capacity crunches, and what the data really says about supply-side pressure. Matt “Future Man” McLelland, VP of Sustainability & Innovation at Covenant — shares how Covenant is investing in green tech, alternative fuels, and the “messy middle” of decarbonization. From the recent DOT regulation shake-up to how shippers and carriers can stay ahead of uncertainty, this episode covers it all — strategy, innovation, and the people driving change in freight. Watch on YouTube Visit our sponsor Subscribe to the WTT newsletter Apple Podcasts Spotify More FreightWaves Podcasts #WHATTHETRUCK #FreightNews #supplychain Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of FreightWaves’ What The Truck?!?, host Malcolm Harris dives into how technology is quietly reshaping the freight world. From AI-powered visibility to smarter dock operations, this show takes you under the hood of innovation in logistics. Guests: Wesley Montague, CEO & Founder of ShipItPro — shares how his platform is tackling freight damage and cargo claims head-on, saving shippers billions through proactive tech and smarter communication across the supply chain. David Mendelson, Chief Product Officer at Super Dispatch — talks scaling logistics tech, the evolution of SuperPay, and how invisible AI is making carriers’ lives easier (and getting them paid faster). Headlines: - U.S. DOT halts non-domiciled CDLs — what it means for illegal operators - USPS carrier shot by Amazon driver raises questions about delivery safety - Red Sea tensions impact global trade routes amid Gaza peace talks - Derek Bars confirmed as new FMCSA chief, signaling tighter regulatory focus Watch on YouTube Visit our sponsor Subscribe to the WTT newsletter Apple Podcasts Spotify More FreightWaves Podcasts #WHATTHETRUCK #FreightNews #supplychain Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It’s a jam-packed Friday on WHAT THE TRUCK?!? Host Malcolm Harris is joined in the Chattanooga studio by the one and only Dr. Phil of Trucking, Charles Gracey!  They’re breaking down the biggest headlines and getting real about the state of the industry. First up, a bombshell legal story: The Supreme Court is stepping in to clarify broker and carrier liability once and for all. FreightWaves Editor at Large John Kingston calls in to explain how this ruling could reshape how brokers are held accountable and what it means for YOU. We want to hear your thoughts on this—tweet the show! Then, Charles Gracey gets candid about his wild journey—from the Navy to culinary school (he was a professional cake decorator!) to becoming a driver and now the voice of “Trucking Sense” on SiriusXM. He’s dropping unfiltered truths on driver recruiting, why authenticity is everything, and what he would change about trucking with a magic wand. Watch on YouTube Visit our sponsor Subscribe to the WTT newsletter Apple Podcasts Spotify More FreightWaves Podcasts #WHATTHETRUCK #FreightNews #supplychain Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Malcolm Harris is joined by two industry leaders for a jam-packed show. This episode is brought to you by Descartes MacroPoint, the industry’s best transportation visibility and risk monitoring platform. First, Malcolm speaks with Michael Hain, Director of Product Marketing at Descartes. They dive deep into the latest Descartes Transportation Management Benchmark Study. Hain reveals that a surprising 81% of respondents now see transportation as a competitive weapon and a key customer service differentiator. They discuss the gap between high AI adoption and low full-process automation (only 17%) , and how companies can leverage their existing tech stack to its fullest potential. Hain also explains how Descartes’ solutions like MyCarrierPortal and MacroPoint FraudGuard help companies combat the rising risk of cargo theft. Later, Tyler “T-Mont” Montgomery, Chief Commercial Officer at Scout Freight, joins the show. Montgomery shares his excitement for his new role and the vision for Scout Freight to be an agile, core truckload provider that doesn’t lose its entrepreneurial spirit. He speaks passionately about the importance of respecting carriers, a value instilled in him by his grandfather, who was also in the trucking industry. Montgomery also discusses the unique logistics ecosystem of “Freight Alley” here in Chattanooga and shares a “What The Truck” moment from his first week on the job involving a 15-foot-tall piece of freight. Watch on YouTube Visit our sponsor Subscribe to the WTT newsletter Apple Podcasts Spotify More FreightWaves Podcasts #WHATTHETRUCK #FreightNews #supplychain Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This Monday on What the Truck?!?, we're joined by Curtis Spencer, CEO of Bloodhound Tracking Device, a leading innovator in real-time asset tracking solutions for global supply chains. With over four decades of experience in logistics, ports, and intermodal shipping, Curtis shares his journey to launching a tech startup and the lessons he's learned along the way.We'll also cover the latest headlines in the freight world: SCOTUS takes up broker liability as new cases arise that could reshape risk for 3PLs. Cargo theft surges in Q3 along the U.S.-Mexico border as criminals adopt new tactics. A proposed 25% tariff on imported trucks by Trump could raise supply chain stakes. Truck drivers are demanding more money, not more hours. Flexport unveils a tech-driven duty drawback strategy for bigger refunds. Plus, Curtis Spencer discusses the intersection of industrial real estate and supply chain tech, what makes Bloodhound's device and platform different, and the future of tracking with AI, ESG reporting, and blockchain.And as a special What the Truck?!? tradition, we ask Curtis the wildest supply chain disaster story he's seen in his career and how today's tech could have saved it. Watch on YouTube Visit our sponsor Subscribe to the WTT newsletter Apple Podcasts Spotify More FreightWaves Podcasts #WHATTHETRUCK #FreightNews #supplychain Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this Friday edition of WHAT THE TRUCK?!?, host Malcolm Harris is in Chattanooga breaking down the week’s biggest headlines and talking with industry titans.First, we dive into the FMCSA’s new emergency rule that immediately restricts the issuance of non-domiciled CDLs. Then, we cover President Trump’s new tariffs targeting heavy trucks and other goods, which could lead to higher costs for imported trucks and parts. Other topics include Volvo making side curtain airbags a standard feature on all new North American models and a CDL testing scam in Massachusetts.This episode features two incredible guests: Kevin Nolan:  Founder of Nolan Transportation Group (NTG) and the mastermind behind OTR Solutions, Marquee Insurance, PayHawk, and Sope Creek Capital. Kevin joins Malcolm in the studio to discuss everything from building a business and evolving with the industry to their shared love for Atlanta hip-hop. Kevin also gives a preview of the epic after-parties planned for the F3: Future of Freight Festival, including specialty cocktails, an 80s cover band, and live midget wrestling. Brandon Wiseman:  President of Truck Safe Consulting. Brandon provides an expert legal breakdown of the FMCSA’s emergency rule on non-domiciled CDLs. He clarifies that while there are an estimated 200,000 such CDL holders, the rule will likely impact a smaller percentage by narrowing eligibility criteria. Watch on YouTube Visit our sponsor Subscribe to the WTT newsletter Apple Podcasts Spotify More FreightWaves Podcasts Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode of WHAT THE TRUCK?!?, host Malcolm Harris is joined by a lineup of M’s: Marcus and Matt for a jam-packed show. First, Malcolm goes one-on-one with Marcus Lewis, founder of the National Trucking Network. As a broker and a former carrier, they “take the gloves off” for a candid discussion about the tense but necessary relationship between brokers and truckers. Marcus shares his perspective on what brokers can do better to support drivers, the number one mistake new truckers make, and why he believes an educated trucker is a broker’s worst nightmare. Later in the show, Matt Dahl, Director of Agent Recruiting at HD Ships and co-host of the “two dogs one pod” podcast, joins Malcolm. Matt breaks down what it takes to be a successful freight agent, the common misconceptions about the agent model, and the importance of being independent and entrepreneurial. Watch on YouTube Visit our sponsor Subscribe to the WTT newsletter Apple Podcasts Spotify More FreightWaves Podcasts #WHATTHETRUCK #FreightNews #supplychain Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode of What the Truck?! delivers a packed lineup of industry insights and big-name guests. After a quick sponsor spotlight on Verizon Business, Harris dives into the headlines—covering FMCSA’s English proficiency testing concerns, the latest State of Freight report, President Trump’s approval of an $85B Union Pacific–Norfolk Southern merger, and shipping disruptions on the Mississippi River.The first guest, Scott Cornell, VP of Transportation at Travelers and a veteran cargo theft expert, breaks down the surge in cargo theft, particularly a 96% spike in metal thefts driven by copper demand. He explains thieves’ methods, from straight theft at truck stops to sophisticated double-brokering scams, and shares prevention and recovery strategies for brokers and carriers.Later, David Galbraith, VP of Global Brand and Marketing at Mack Trucks, joins to discuss brand legacy, driver engagement, and marketing innovation. With decades of experience across automotive and tech, Galbraith explains how Mack is blending its heritage of toughness with forward-looking sophistication and comfort—highlighted by initiatives like the Mack Hotel campaign and the “Driven by Heroes” platform celebrating truck drivers as essential workers. Watch on YouTube Visit our sponsor Subscribe to the WTT newsletter Apple Podcasts Spotify More FreightWaves Podcasts #WHATTHETRUCK #FreightNews #supplychain Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode of WHAT THE TRUCK?!?, host Malcolm Harris is joined by the “freight sensei” himself, Thomas Wasson. The two dive into a wide-ranging conversation that blends industry insights with personal stories from Thomas’s career in logistics.They cover everything from Tesla’s latest autopilot lawsuits and the future of autonomous trucking , to how companies like Outpost are scaling up terminal networks to handle billions in freight . Thomas also unpacks why trailers are the unsung heroes of supply chains , the potential ripple effects of major rail mergers , and what driver appreciation really means in an industry that stops the world without them .Along the way, Thomas reflects on his own journey—from struggling as a new broker to building startups and finding his voice at FreightWaves. It’s a mix of freight tech, hard-earned lessons, and the human side of trucking that you won’t want to miss. Watch on YouTube Visit our sponsor Subscribe to the WTT newsletter Apple Podcasts Spotify More FreightWaves Podcasts #WHATTHETRUCK #FreightNews #supplychain Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Watch on YouTube Visit our sponsor Subscribe to the WTT newsletter Apple Podcasts Spotify More FreightWaves Podcasts #WHATTHETRUCK #FreightNews #supplychain Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this September 15th edition of What the Truck?! with host Malcolm Harris, FreightWavesTV kicks off Trucker Appreciation Week with a high-energy lineup. Malcolm chats with Jordan Spradling, VP of Transportation & Logistics at Pilot Flying J, about the company’s Road Warrior Contest in partnership with the Diesel Brothers—featuring a custom Kenworth W900 and $50,000 prize. Spradling shares insights on driver appreciation, leadership lessons, DEF terminal expansion, balancing cost efficiency with reliability, and the role of new safety technology like MirrorEye. Later, Malcolm welcomes longtime friend Chris Richards of CLN Worldwide (formerly Steam Logistics) for a deep dive into the challenges and opportunities shaping global trade. Richards discusses the volatility of tariffs, shifting supply chains from China to Mexico, bonded warehousing solutions, and why adaptability and trust are key in today’s international freight market. The episode blends industry insight with candid “What the Truck?!” moments—from hurricane fuel deliveries with police escorts to navigating unpredictable tariff hikes—while celebrating the people who keep freight moving. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this Friday edition of What The Truck?!, host Malcolm Harris welcomes Erin Field from Chevron to discuss the company’s role in advancing renewable fuels and supporting fleets on their sustainability journeys. Erin reflects on her nearly decade-long career at Chevron, highlighting innovations in biodiesel, renewable diesel, renewable natural gas (RNG), and hydrogen. She introduces Chevron’s demo program with Cummins and PACCAR, which allows fleets to test next-generation CNG trucks with diesel-like power and torque, addressing common misconceptions about performance, fueling, and driver experience. The conversation also touches on Erin’s leadership journey, advice for women in energy, and her passion for volunteering in Houston’s community. Beyond the interview, Malcolm covers breaking logistics headlines, including a container mishap at the Port of Long Beach, new nominations to the Surface Transportation Board, Werner’s response to a Kenyan driver recruitment rumor, and a proposed bill targeting trucker English proficiency at weigh stations. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

WHAT THE TRUCK?!? kicks off a brand-new chapter as Kaylee Nix welcomes the show’s new host, Malcolm Harris. From his early days at Coyote to his journey through Steam Logistics, Axle Logistics, and beyond, Malcolm shares how freight shaped his career and why Chattanooga feels like home. He talks about his passion for storytelling, his vision for connecting the freight community, and what listeners can expect as he takes the reins of this iconic show. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On today’s WHAT THE TRUCK?!?, host Thomas Wasson breaks down the day’s top headlines — from Wawa’s first travel center with truck parking to Aurora and McLeod’s autonomous TMS integration, tariff-driven import surges, and shake-ups at the STB. Then, Thomas dives into the future of renewable fuels with special guests from Nopetro and Hexagon Agility. Nopetro’s Scott Brenner and Kevin Hyatt explain how fleets are adopting renewable natural gas (RNG) from landfills and dairy farms, while Hexagon Agility’s Eric Bippus and Ian MacDonald share insights on their record CNG truck orders and the rollout of Cummins’ new X15N natural gas engine. From infrastructure and maintenance savings to regulatory shifts and long-haul viability, this episode uncovers how RNG and CNG are shaping the next era of freight sustainability. Watch on YouTube Visit our sponsor Subscribe to the WTT newsletter Follow the Podcast More FreightWaves Podcasts Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Host Thomas Wasson breaks down the latest trucking headlines — from federal threats to cut highway funds over English proficiency enforcement to CDL testing scandals, clean energy truck orders, and shifting credit conditions in transportation finance. Michael Caney, CCO at Highway, joins the show to discuss the company’s growth investment, the launch of the Trusted Freight Exchange, and the battle against freight fraud. Later, Zach Strickland, Head of Freight Market Intelligence at SONAR, shares insights on SONAR’s new Blue to Blue app, shifting freight market conditions, and what to expect heading into peak season. Watch on YouTube Visit our sponsor Subscribe to the WTT newsletter Apple Podcasts Spotify More FreightWaves Podcasts #WHATTHETRUCK #FreightNews #supplychain Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode of WHAT THE TRUCK?!?, host Thomas Wasson covers the latest headlines in freight before diving deep into driver wellness with Travelers’ Monica Rinaldi. She breaks down the mental and physical health challenges truckers face on the road and what fleets can do to better support them. Then, Kenworth’s Sarah Abernathy joins to spotlight the Transition Trucking: Driving for Excellence Award, celebrating veterans who’ve successfully moved into transportation. Finally, Kenworth’s Alex Reid takes us under the hood of the iconic W900 Legacy Edition as the legendary model nears the end of its run. Plus: breaking news on ATA lawsuits, import trends, new rail partnerships, and even a little cow jazz. Watch on YouTube Visit our sponsor Subscribe to the WTT newsletter Apple Podcasts Spotify More FreightWaves Podcasts #WHATTHETRUCK #FreightNews #supplychain Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Thomas Wasson breaks down the top stories in freight, including the Trump administration’s sudden pause on work visas for foreign truck drivers and what it means for the industry. It’s also an “autonomous trucks” edition, featuring in-depth conversations with Shahrukh Kazmi, Chief Product Officer at Volvo Autonomous Solutions, on their new VNL autonomous trucks running freight in Texas, and Shawn Kerrigan, COO of Plus, on their path to commercial launch and partnerships with global OEMs. From labor disruptions to driverless tech, this episode dives into the challenges and opportunities shaping trucking’s future. Watch on YouTube Visit our sponsor Subscribe to the WTT newsletter Apple Podcasts Spotify More FreightWaves Podcasts #WHATTHETRUCK #FreightNews #supplychain Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On today’s episode of WHAT THE TRUCK?!?, host Thomas Wasson is joined by Reed Loustalot, CMO of Truck Parking Club, to discuss groundbreaking new research on the truck parking shortage and how unlocking unused spaces could transform driver efficiency. Reed also shares updates on Truck Parking Club’s new clubhouse and innovation hub in Georgia.Later in the show, Steve Gold, President of the Truckers Network Association, weighs in on a string of tragic truck crashes and exposes systemic flaws in CDL licensing and training. From non-domiciled CDL loopholes to fraudulent schools, Steve explains why reform is urgently needed to protect drivers and the public.Don’t miss this deep dive into two of trucking’s hottest issues: where to park and who’s behind the wheel. Watch on YouTube Visit our sponsor Subscribe to the WTT newsletter Apple Podcasts Spotify More FreightWaves Podcasts #WHATTHETRUCK #FreightNews #supplychain Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode of WHAT THE TRUCK?!?, host Thomas Wasson teams up with special guest host Charles Gracey for a high-energy ride through today’s top trucking stories and industry insights.They’re joined by Lewie Pugh, Executive Vice President of OOIDA, who breaks down new EPA guidance on diesel emissions and what it means for drivers on the road. Then, Jeff Pape, General Manager of Transportation and Corporate Payments at U.S. Bank, dives into the latest Freight Payment Index and shares what the data is telling us about freight volumes, spending, and regional trends.Thomas and Charles also tackle the day’s biggest headlines, from self-driving trucks and California’s emissions battles to tariffs shaking up cross-border freight and new AI-powered gate technology.It’s an episode loaded with insights, banter, and the pulse of the freight world you won’t want to miss. Watch on YouTube Visit our sponsor Subscribe to the WTT newsletter Apple Podcasts Spotify More FreightWaves Podcasts Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices