The Freight Coach Podcast

Today, a reefer expert is back, Cody Koehler of A & Z Trucking, to dive into the volatility currently hitting the reefer freight market!  Are you prepared for the upcoming peak produce and floral seasons in Florida? We break down the Tampa to Cleveland lane, analyzing why we're seeing a significant year-over-year rate increase and how political factors and weather events are tightening capacity across the country. Cody shares his insights on freight lane analysis, the importance of honoring quoted rates to maintain shipper trust, and why proactive communication is your best tool when capacity gets tight. Whether you're navigating spot market rates or managing long-term contracts, we discuss the best practices for building a resilient book of business in an unpredictable environment!   About Cody Koehler Cody is a 21-year veteran in supply chain/logistics. He has done just about everything in this industry minus holding his CDL (he did drive a yard dog though). In his current role, he oversees the sales and marketing teams for A&Z trucking, a 20-year old brokerage that specializes in produce and reefer freight, as well as cold storage and cross docking.   Connect with Cody LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cody-koehler-1a922b162/  Website: https://aandztrucking.com/  Email: info@aandztrucking.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/

In this episode, Evan Shelley of Truck Parking Club is back to discuss the real-world challenges facing transportation professionals today and how private-sector innovation is tackling the massive truck parking crisis across the United States! We cover everything from their cool 1978 International Transtar cabover restoration project to the critical need for safe, accessible truck parking locations, how they are leveraging the private sector to create a scalable truck parking solution by connecting drivers with underutilized lots, which is a game-changer given the slow pace of government bureaucracy and the limitations of the Truck Parking Safety Improvement Act. We break down the safety implications of illegal parking on on-ramps, the impact of local zoning regulations, and how technology integrations with ELD providers are helping owner-operators and freight carriers find secure spots before their hours of service run out!   About Evan Shelley Evan Shelley is Co-founder and CEO of Truck Parking Club, a company providing parking for truckers by monetizing vacant properties for landowners. Evan is a truck parking expert with a deep knowledge of the business. Using his experiences in truck parking and real estate he is working to help solve the truck parking shortage and bring awareness to the issue.   Through the "Night on Us" promotion, truck drivers who get a qualifying Shell Rotella oil change can receive up to $100 in Truck Parking Club Cash to use at any of our 4,200+ locations nationwide. The promotion runs through June 30, 2026. Full details at rotella.com/nightonus.   📊📉 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/

We're back for another episode that will break down everything you need to know about the current state of the transportation business, and today, you'll hear critical advice for brokers and carriers navigating the complex world of heavy-haul and over-dimensional freight, emphasizing the importance of expert coordination for permits and pilot cars! Beyond the lanes, we tackle the industry's digital transformation, from Samsara's new AI-driven driver coaching features designed to improve safety and lower insurance premiums, to the legislative crackdown on CDL fraud and fraudulent motor carrier authorities. Whether we're discussing the FMCSA's stance on insurance minimums or the future of autonomous trucking technology, the goal is to give you the real-world insights you need to protect your margins and grow your business in today's volatile freight market, so tune in!   Resources / References https://www.ttnews.com/articles/samsara-expands-ai-driver https://www.freightwaves.com/news/lawmaker-pushes-for-ice-coordination-in-cdl-crackdowns https://www.overdriveonline.com/business/article/15819162/fmcsa-says-it-lacks-data-to-bump-carrier-insurance-minimums-past-750k   📊📉 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 feeling the weight of burnout as a founder or struggling to scale your operations, you must listen to this conversation with My Freight Staff's CEO, Edward Lockridge! Edward delves into the game-changing world of remote work and virtual assistants in the transportation industry,  the "brute force" required to build a book of business, the necessity of establishing bulletproof operational systems before hiring, and why outsourcing to global talent is a strategic move to prevent team exhaustion and maintain a 24/7 competitive edge. Whether you're a freight broker or a carrier, tune in to learn how high-level delegation allows you to stop playing defense and start focusing on what you do best: hunting for new customers and growing your logistics business!   Connect with Edward Website: https://myfreightstaff.ph/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/myfreightstaff/?hl=en / https://www.instagram.com/edward_lockridge/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/myfreightstaff/ / https://www.linkedin.com/in/myfreightstaff/  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/myfreightstaffph   📊📉 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/

Let's start this week by breaking down the latest updates in transportation and supply chain management with today's guest, Kyle Kottke from Kottke Trucking! We delve into the recent upward trajectory of the dry van market, specifically focusing on lanes such as Plant City, Florida, to Des Moines, Iowa, and discuss how rising fuel prices and early produce season shifts are reshaping carrier capacity.  Kyle and I take a frank look at the differences between contracted rates and spot market volatility, while stressing the absolute necessity of transparent communication and technical accuracy in today's freight brokerage landscape.  Whether we're tackling the nuances of AB5 regulations, driver classifications, or the internal metrics that define a successful trucking operation, this episode has the no-nonsense insights you need to navigate the road ahead!   📊📉 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/

Ever wondered how a single Supreme Court case could reshape the entire freight brokerage industry? We're thrilled to have the Armchair Attorney Matt Leffler back on the show to break down the high-stakes broker liability landscape and the recent oral arguments that have everyone in transportation talking.  We dive deep into the legal nuances of the Montgomery v. CH Robinson case, exploring whether brokers should be held liable for the negligence of motor carriers and what the Solicitor General's support for the industry actually means for your daily operations.  Matt and I pull no punches as we discuss the "rotten" state of the supply chain, the critical need for updated FMCSA regulations, and why relying on outdated 1980s standards is a recipe for disaster in a modern freight market.  If you want a straightforward look at the potential for a "golden age" of high-standard operations versus the looming threat of an onslaught of lawsuits, you can't afford to miss this episode!   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/

What if the best opportunities in trucking don't require a traditional college degree? And what if the growing shortage of diesel mechanics is one of the biggest career openings in the transportation industry today? Today, we have Caleb Johnson from Coltrain Onsite Fleet Care to discuss how military veterans are transitioning into trucking, logistics, and diesel technician careers, bringing valuable hands-on experience that the industry needs! We also break down the skilled labor shortage in diesel mechanics and why it's creating major opportunities for new workers seeking stable, high-demand careers.  Caleb shares how mobile fleet maintenance and on-site truck repair are transforming the industry by reducing downtime and improving efficiency, with Coltrain achieving a 95% on-site repair success rate through skilled technicians and preventative maintenance strategies!   About Caleb Johnson Caleb Johnson didn't find his way into the trucking industry. He was born into it. Growing up, while his mother built her career in the industry, Caleb spent his earliest years with his mom in the shop coloring books and catching rides on tractors around the yard. The industry felt like a second family before he ever started turning wrenches. A U.S. Army veteran, Caleb launched his career in transportation through his military service, where he went on to serve as an instructor in an Observer Coach/Trainer (OCT) unit, training and validating Army teams and their vehicles before overseas deployment, ensuring they were mission-capable no matter the mission set. That background in preparation, accountability, and getting people ready to perform under pressure shapes how he leads to this day. With over 12 years of experience in fleet maintenance and mobile repair, Caleb has worked every level of this industry, from Lead Technician at Penske Truck Leasing to Mobile Technician Manager for the Gulf South Region at Dickinson Fleet Services/Cox Automotive, to General Manager roles at Fleet Mobile Maintenance and now Coltrain Onsite Fleet Care, where he leads the Central Gulf Region. In an industry that runs on trust, Caleb is the kind of operator people want in their corner, genuine, relational, and deeply invested in the people around him. At Coltrain Onsite Fleet Care, he's found a home that shares that same conviction, putting people first and delivering on the promise to defend the road with reliable maintenance and repair that keeps fleets moving safely and efficiently to their destinations.   📊📉 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 finding a new floor, and what does the Department of Labor's six-factor test mean for owner-operators?  Let's dive into the following topics: Vineland-to-Tracy reefer lane, where rates have stabilized around $4,500 despite winter slowdowns, signaling tighter capacity and a potential pricing shift for carriers and brokers.  The DOL's independent contractor rule changes and how the new test could reclassify drivers as employees, creating major liabilities if you're not careful.  The FMCSA's move to proactive safety enforcement using big data to flag high-risk carriers before incidents occur, improving safety while shaking up the competitive landscape.   Resources / References https://www.ttnews.com/articles/independent-contractor-rule https://www.overdriveonline.com/regulations/article/15818491/safer-transport-act-would-require-prosecution-of-fraudsters-more https://www.freightwaves.com/news/derek-barrs-defends-fmcsas-bold-moves-at-tca   📊📉 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, Ingrid Brown from Blackjack Express, LLC and Women in Trucking Association breaks down the following topics:  Why adaptation in transportation and freight brokerage isn't optional; it's the price of staying in business in a volatile freight market. How federal initiatives from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration and the U.S. Department of Transportation are pushing for unified CDL standards across all 50 states to eliminate loopholes, increase accountability, and raise the bar on safety compliance, while emphasizing that enforcement at the state level is what truly removes unsafe carriers from the road. Ingrid's direct involvement in shaping hours-of-service and sleeper berth reforms, and why severe penalties, consistent regulation, and data-driven policy are essential to creating fairness for legitimate motor carriers and freight brokers. The growing divide between brokers and drivers, how social media conflict is fueling misinformation, and why real collaboration, education, and face-to-face communication are critical to rebuilding trust across the trucking industry. Sustainable growth in transportation comes down to mindset, accountability, safety culture, and a shared commitment to long-term industry leadership. If we want freight to thrive for decades to come, we've got to stop chasing noise and start building solutions!   📊📉 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 dry van rates finally stabilizing, and what do new FMCSA regulations, insurance increases, and AI recruiting mean for your trucking business moving forward?   Today, I break down the following topics: Why the Ontario, California to Seattle, Washington dry van lane continues to show long-term freight market stability with only a modest $150 rate increase year over year, while the Seattle outbound market still struggles with a persistent rate imbalance that directly impacts carrier pricing strategy and broker negotiations. The FMCSA's push to raise trucking insurance minimums from $750,000 to potentially $2 million, and how that could reduce carrier capacity, increase premiums, and force small carriers and owner-operators out of the market if they're not prepared. The real impact of Delilah's Law and new CDL standardization efforts aimed at improving driver safety, even if it temporarily tightens driver availability, and why brokers need stronger carrier vetting now more than ever. AI in driver recruiting — where automation can improve screening but still struggles against one undeniable advantage in freight: real human relationships, trust, and communication that continue to separate successful carriers, brokers, and recruiters in today's competitive trucking industry.   Resources / References https://www.ttnews.com/articles/driver-recruiters-agentic-ai https://www.freightwaves.com/news/fmcsa-spotlights-truckings-multi-million-dollar-insurance-gap https://www.overdriveonline.com/regulations/article/15818227/dalilah-law-introduced-in-congress-to-reform-cdl-issuance   📊📉 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've got Joe Ohr and Marli Hall from NMFTA to discuss the launch of SCAC Verified and why identity verification is quickly becoming a non-negotiable standard in freight brokerage, trucking, and supply chain operations! As verification requirements tighten across the industry, this NMFTA-led initiative strengthens carrier legitimacy through biometric verification, helping brokers, shippers, and carriers combat rising cargo theft, chameleon carriers, and digital fraud risks. We also cover the upcoming Freight Fraud Prevention Hub launching on March 3rd, a collaborative resource packed with best practices, fraud trends, and actionable strategies designed to protect logistics providers across the transportation industry.  As regulatory pressure increases from the FMCSA and fraud continues to escalate, maintaining an active SCAC code and adopting verification tools early will separate legitimate carriers from bad actors, build trust faster during onboarding, and create a real competitive advantage in today's freight market, because moving freight safely now starts with proving who you are! Visit this link to learn more: https://freightfraudhub.com/   About Joe Ohr Joe Ohr has more than two decades of experience in technical operations, customer success management, customer support, and product support. Currently serving as the Chief Operating Officer for the National Motor Freight Traffic Association, Inc. (NMFTA)™, he plays a pivotal role in helping to advance the industry through digitization, classification, and cybersecurity. Prior to Ohr's role at NMFTA, he served as in numerous engineering and operations positions at Qualcomm and Eaton, and most recently held the position of Senior Vice President of Operations/Customer Experience at Omnitracs. Throughout his career, Ohr has provided strategic guidance, vision, and a roadmap for addressing long-term customer challenges. He has played a key role in accelerating revenue growth and has collaborated closely with IT, product, and engineering teams to foster stronger partnerships with strategic customers and peers. Additionally, Ohr has overseen post sales customer support and service teams, as well as operations, managing a workforce of over 400 individuals. He holds multiple certifications such as CCNA from Cisco and MCSE from Microsoft and earned his Bachelor of Science in Education from the Ohio State University. Due to his contributions to the industry, he earned a spot in the Inner Circle in 2015 and 2018 from Qualcomm and Omnitracs.   About Marli Hall Marli Hall is the Director of Communications and Marketing at the National Motor Freight Traffic Association (NMFTA), where she leads strategic communication efforts to enhance the organization's visibility and reputation within the freight transportation industry. In this role, Marli oversees media relations, manages key messaging, and develops public relations campaigns that promote NMFTA's initiatives, partnerships, and contributions to the sector. She started with NMFTA in August 2022, previously serving as the director of communications and member services, and earlier as a communications specialist. Prior to NMFTA, Marli was the senior director of outreach & engagement at the Truckload Carriers Association (TCA) for nearly a decade. She directed marketing and communications strategies to promote TCA's educational programs, image initiatives, and outreach efforts. She holds a bachelor's degree in news editorial from West Virginia University and graduated from the Public Affairs & Advocacy Institute at American University. Marli has served as an FMCSA Our Roads Our Safety Program Partner and was nominated to the Women of Trucking Advisory Board. Marli resides in Alexandria, VA, with her husband, Chris, and enjoys visiting her family's 300-acre cattle farm and attending concerts.   📊📉 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 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/