Trucking with OOIDA

A Trip to the Ionosphere

Wed, 01 Apr 2026 05:00:00 -0500

LJ Lowrey spends his time on Planet Earth as a truck driver, but his voice is living at a much higher altitude. The OOIDA member has embraced amateur radio as a hobby, one that keeps him busy on and off the road. Plus, they say there are two certainties in life. We can’t do much to help with one of them, but we can help when it comes to taxes thanks to Barry Fowler of Trucker Tax Tools, who has some sound advice that can help you all year round.

Join the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association: https://www.ooida.com/membership/

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Livin’ the Dream at the Mid-America Trucking Show

Wed, 25 Mar 2026 05:00:00 -0500

Paul Marhoefer isn’t about to let a little setback keep him from attending the Mid-America Trucking Show this year – and that’s because he’s not just attending. The musician/trucker known as Long Haul Paul will be living out a longtime dream, performing on trucking’s biggest stage in Louisville, despite being a bit hobbled. As he tells us, he’s got four bangers lined up, one of which will honor a MATS Wall of Fame 2026 honoree, “The Trucking Troubadour,” Bill Weaver. Plus, OOIDA has big plans for this weekend’s show – and a new booth location. Jordan Sedgwick and Trevor Williams have the details on what’s in store.

Join the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association: https://www.ooida.com/membership/

Tired of watching your rights eroded: https://fightingfortruckers.com/

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Mid-America Trucking Show: https://truckingshow.com/

Long Haul Paul: https://www.longhaulpaulmusic.com/

Celebrating St. Patrick’s Day with an Irish trucker

Tue, 17 Mar 2026 05:00:00 -0500

What better way to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day than to take a trip to Ireland for a talk with Ger Hyland, president of the Irish Road Haulage Association, which was founded the same year OOIDA was: 1973. We get the inside scoop on the St. Patrick’s Day holiday from an Irishman’s point of view, and discover that Irish lorry drivers are facing many of the same challenges North American truckers face.

https://www.irha.ie/

Join the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association: https://www.ooida.com/membership/

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Built, Not Bought: Growing a Successful Family Trucking Business

Wed, 11 Mar 2026 05:00:00 -0500

Bill Rethwisch and his family are an American success story. When Bill and his wife Sarah started out their trucking company nearly 20 years, they had one truck. Today? They have more than 40 – and both their sons are poised to follow in their footsteps, led by 18-year-old Luke, who’s racking up wins on the show truck circuit. From the challenges of starting and growing a business and the importance of relationships to their passion for customizing and showing off the company's trucks and more, Bill and Luke detail their commitment to the trucking industry. Plus, Bob Glenn of Penske joins the show to explain why the time to buy a used truck is now.

Join the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association: https://www.ooida.com/membership/

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Fishing for Bass and Answers with Science of the Strike

Wed, 04 Mar 2026 05:00:00 -0500

When it comes to fishing, there’s not really a right way or wrong way to go about it if you subscribe to the notion that there’s no such thing as a bad day fishing. But if you’re a bit more serious about the craft, science can help. Lifelong friends Corbin Healy and Sam Huckabee are in that latter group. Over time, they realized they wanted answers to questions that would yield more largemouth bass. Why are they biting this and not that? Does bait color matter? How about the phase of the moon? These are among the questions Corbin and Sam dive into on their podcast, Science of the Strike – and today, they answer ours about how they got started. Then, Marty Ellis pops in to discuss what keeps him occupied when he’s touring the country in the OOIDA tour truck.

Science of the Strike: https://www.youtube.com/@ScienceoftheStrike

OOIDA Tour Truck Schedule: https://www.ooida.com/ooida-tour-truck/

Join the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association: https://www.ooida.com/membership/

Tired of watching your rights eroded: https://fightingfortruckers.com/

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Don’t Haul that Heavy Load Alone

Wed, 25 Feb 2026 05:00:00 -0500

Trucking is a stressful profession, and Shaun Lezer knows that as well as anyone. The Utah-based truck driver found himself at a crossroads a few years back, and the path he took has made a world of difference for his mental and physical health. Now, Shaun uses that experience to mentor other truckers going through similar issues. He joins the show to share some tips for getting past the bad and embracing the good. Then, therapist Buck Black specializes in treating truck drivers, and he’s got some professional advice on ways to reach out and connect with someone who can help.

Join the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association: https://www.ooida.com/membership/

Tired of watching your rights eroded: https://fightingfortruckers.com/

Subscribe for FREE to Land Line Magazine (online or print): https://landline.media/subscribe/

St. Christopher Truckers Relief Fund health and wellness programs: https://truckersfund.org/healthwellness/

988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: https://988lifeline.org/

Route 66: How the Mother Road Became a Legend

Wed, 18 Feb 2026 05:00:00 -0500

The heyday of Route 66 may be long behind us, but its memory is still going strong for a number of reasons. More than just a road, Route 66 is a symbol of American adventure, history, and culture – a reflection of our growth, struggles, and dreams. In this, the 100th year since it was established, we welcome historian David Dunaway to the show to talk about Route 66’s origin story, its impact on American culture and more, then dive into his newest book dedicated to eyeglasses.

Join the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association: https://www.ooida.com/membership/

Tired of watching your rights eroded: https://fightingfortruckers.com/

Subscribe for FREE to Land Line Magazine (online or print): https://landline.media/subscribe/

A Route 66 Companion: https://www.amazon.com/Route-Companion-David-King-Dunaway/dp/0292726600

A Four-Eyed World: https://afoureyedworld.com/

Across the Tracks: A Route 66 Story:

https://route66.unm.edu/

OOIDA Foundation Freight Rate Survey: https://ooida.questionpro.com/a/TakeSurvey?tt=xvcsDqGZvVsECHrPeIW9eQ%3D%3D

Jason’s Law survey: https://tti.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_8HVTBNft24a2Rfg

Onward and Upward in 2026

Fri, 16 Jan 2026 19:00:00 -0500

To say 2025 was a busy year is an understatement. It’s also worth noting that it was a productive year as well, with movement on hours-of-service flexibility, non-domiciled CDLs and more. To recap 2025, we call in Todd Spencer, Lewie Pugh and Andrew King of OOIDA before looking ahead to what the Association plans to accomplish in 2026.

Join the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association: https://www.ooida.com/membership/

Tired of watching your rights eroded: https://fightingfortruckers.com/

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Rep. David Taylor on Launching Congress’ First Trucking Caucus

Thu, 08 Jan 2026 19:00:00 -0500

Every now and then, an idea comes along that makes you wonder why it isn’t already being done. The Congressional Trucking Caucus is a prime example. The idea, just now taking shape, will bring together lawmakers on a regular basis to talk over trucking issues – and take action. Rep. David Taylor of Ohio, who’s spearheading the caucus, joins Trucking with OOIDA to discuss how the idea came about, how it’ll work and how you can help shape the steps the caucus takes.

Join the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association: https://www.ooida.com/membership/

Tired of watching your rights eroded: https://fightingfortruckers.com/

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OOIDA Member Helps Family After “Horrific Accident”

Fri, 19 Dec 2025 19:00:00 -0500

Natasha Cruz-Sanchez has had a busy and prosperous year. Aside from her everyday job of hauling freight, the OOIDA member has also filed a petition with FMCSA on English-language proficiency, appeared on national television and launched a coffee company, not to mentioning acting as a first responder at the scene of an accident in the middle of the night. We catch up with Natasha to see how everything’s going – and find out what she has planned for 2026.

Join the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association: https://www.ooida.com/membership/

Tired of watching your rights eroded: https://fightingfortruckers.com/

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NACRUSÁN - "Where Coffee and Trucking Meet": https://www.nacrusan.com/

Christmas in the Cab with Simple Livin’s Angela Griffin

Wed, 17 Dec 2025 19:00:00 -0500

If you’re not quite in the Christmas spirit yet, Angela Griffin has the cure. The professional truck driver, who’s gained a following with her Simple Livin’ YouTube channel, has a lot of ideas for making the holidays a bit merrier, even if you’re spending it on the road.

Join the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association:

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Christmas + Convoy + Truck Lights = Holiday Cheer

Tue, 16 Dec 2025 19:00:00 -0500

Who doesn’t love a good convoy, especially one that revolves around a Christmas theme? Truck driver Noah Melton tells us about the Red Arrow Convoy in Michigan, which just wrapped up its third event – and it was bigger than ever. Noah walks us through the origins of the convoy, and the message he hopes everyone takes away from it.

Join the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association:

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Tired of watching your rights eroded:

https://fightingfortruckers.com/

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Here’s How OOIDA Has Led the Fight Against Non-Domiciled CDLs

Fri, 12 Dec 2025 17:00:00 -0500

OOIDA has been consistent about its stance on non-domiciled CDLs from the jump. The Association believes the program should be completely eliminated – and the Trump Administration and Congress are taking important steps to reign in the program. But meaningful, long-term progress on non-domiciled CDLs is going to take a collective effort, one the Association continues to lead. Lewie Pugh, OOIDA’s executive vice president, and Collin Long, OOIDA director of government affairs join Trucking with OOIDA to set the record straight and issue a call to action.

Download a copy of OOIDA's comments to FMCSA about the non-domiciled CDL program: https://www.regulations.gov/comment/FMCSA-2025-0622-8006

Join the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association: https://www.ooida.com/membership/

Tired of watching your rights eroded: https://fightingfortruckers.com/

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Trucking History is American History

Wed, 10 Dec 2025 19:00:00 -0500

There really isn’t anything quite like the American Truck Historical Society in the country, much less the world. Is it a truck club? A museum? Or maybe a research library? Brad Patterson, membership director of ATHS, says it’s all those things. But more importantly, it’s a place that honors the men and women who have dedicated their lives to the trucking industry, preserving their place in history as the backbone of the supply chain and country.

Join the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association: https://www.ooida.com/membership/

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For more on what the American Truck Historical Society has to offer, check out their website: https://www.aths.org/

Thinking About Factoring? Buyer Beware

Mon, 08 Dec 2025 19:00:00 -0500

If you’re going to factor, there are a few things you need to know in advance. Linking up with a factoring company comes with risks, and OOIDA has the receipts and horror stories to prove it. For that reason, the Association tells its members to avoid factoring if they can help it. But OOIDA is also realistic and knows that many people rely on factoring to keep their business running – so if you’re going to factor, Tom Crowley, Jim Jefferson and Trevor Williams have some advice that could save you some sizeable headaches – or even worse.

Join the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association: https://www.ooida.com/membership/

Tired of watching your rights eroded: https://fightingfortruckers.com/

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Trucking America's Most Isolated Highway

Thu, 04 Dec 2025 19:00:00 -0500

The temperatures may be low, but the passion for trucking burns bright for Alaskan driver Tiff Hargraves — known to many as “Dalton Darlin” on YouTube. She joins Trucking with OOIDA to share what life is like on the road and how her career journey took her from commercial fishing to commercial trucking.

Join the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association:

https://www.ooida.com/membership/

Tired of watching your rights eroded:

https://fightingfortruckers.com/

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The History of a Favorite Truck-Stop Snack: The Potato Chip

Tue, 02 Dec 2025 19:00:00 -0500

Today we’re talking chips, not micro but of the salty variety. For nearly two centuries people have been enjoying these thin slices of potato. Trucking with OOIDA hosts, Scott and Ashley recently got to talking about this household staple and wondered how this salty snack came to be. They turned to Alan Richer, better known as the Toga Chip Guy. He joins the show to talk about the history of the Saratoga Chip, how it grew in popularity and what it is about this universal snack that as one company coined the phrase, “betcha can’t eat just one”.

Join the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association:

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Tired of watching your rights eroded:

https://fightingfortruckers.com/

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Adding Truck Parking at the Crossroads of America

Mon, 01 Dec 2025 19:00:00 -0500

Solving the truck parking crisis is going to take a team effort, so when a state like Indiana takes action, we like to celebrate it. The state DOT is in the early stages of a plan that will add more than 1,200 truck parking spaces throughout the state. Natalie Garrett, INDOT’s strategic communications director, breaks down where they are – and where they’re heading.

Join the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association: https://www.ooida.com/membership/

Tired of watching your rights eroded: https://fightingfortruckers.com/

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Trucking in Paradise

Wed, 26 Nov 2025 19:00:00 -0500

Living in Hawaii comes with some definite perks – and we’re not going to lie, trucking in Hawaii sounds pretty great, too. But that doesn’t mean there aren’t challenges. Narrow roads. Truck parking problems. And a few more. As the now-former leader of the Hawaii Transportation Association, Kelvin Kohatsu is quite familiar with all the issues drivers face in Hawaii. He shares those with us, along with a driver training program for new truckers that could be a good model for the rest of the country and more.

Join the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association: https://www.ooida.com/membership/

Tired of watching your rights eroded: https://fightingfortruckers.com/

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Every Alaskan Wants to Leave, But Every Alaskan Comes Back

Tue, 25 Nov 2025 19:00:00 -0500

It’s a running joke, but like a lot of things in life, it’s funny because there’s some truth to it. And it’s especially true for professional truck drivers in Alaska, who keep hitting the road despite an endless wave of challenges in their way. Jamie Benson, president and CEO of the Alaska Trucking Association, breaks it all down for us – from living part of the year in constant darkness and moose guards to breakdowns on one of the most dangerous and isolated roadways in North America and more.

Join the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association: https://www.ooida.com/membership/

Tired of watching your rights eroded: https://fightingfortruckers.com/

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Everything’s “Okay-ish”: Looking for Silver Linings on the Freight Market

Mon, 24 Nov 2025 19:00:00 -0500

This is the time of year when things normally pick up – but as you have probably noticed, the bump we normally have isn’t the bump we’re currently having. Carter Vieth, research analyst for ACT Research, explains what’s happening out there, before expressing some cautious optimism about a recovery in 2026.

Join the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association: https://www.ooida.com/membership/

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The Best Time to Buy

Fri, 21 Nov 2025 19:00:00 -0500

If you’re in the market for a new truck, Andrej Divis has some advice. The executive director of global heavy truck research at S&P Global says a number of factors are impacting the North American truck market right now, which by extension impact your buying decisions. Plus, the U.S. is trailing other countries when it comes to the development and deployment of electric semis. Is there a future here for them?

Join the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association: https://www.ooida.com/membership/

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Taking a Moment to Brag (Humbly), But Then It’s Back to Work

Thu, 20 Nov 2025 19:00:00 -0500

OOIDA has celebrated a lot of wins on the regulatory side of things this year. Proposed speed limiter mandate? Bye-bye. An honest-to-goodness exploration of hours-of-service flexibility? Check. Forcing action on non-domiciled CDLs and English language enforcement? Roger that. But make no mistake, there’s a lot more work to do. One person who understands that is Collin Long. OOIDA’s director of government affairs is not one to rest on his laurels, and he’s got his sights set on bigger wins in 2026.

Join the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association: https://www.ooida.com/membership/

Tired of watching your rights eroded: https://fightingfortruckers.com/

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"I Have a Corner Office and the Scenery Changes Constantly"

Wed, 19 Nov 2025 19:00:00 -0500

Linda Allen and Johanne Couture love trucking, which is one reason both joined the OOIDA board of directors. In a wide-ranging conversation, Linda and Johanne share stories from the road and express their wishes for making the industry a more welcome place for everyone.

Join the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association: https://www.ooida.com/membership/

Tired of watching your rights eroded: https://fightingfortruckers.com/

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“Trucking Was the Greatest Education He Ever Got”

Tue, 18 Nov 2025 19:00:00 -0500

Mark Elrod, Danny Schnautz and Monte Wiederhold have had successful trucking careers, ones you can measure in decades and millions of miles. So when the trio of OOIDA board members impart their advice and wisdom, it’s worth something. The three reflect on where they’ve been, how the industry has changed over the years, and why a mind for mechanics combined with some self-reliance and a whole lot of “stick-to-itiveness” is still a pretty good formula for making it in the industry.

Join the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association: https://www.ooida.com/membership/

Tired of watching your rights eroded: https://fightingfortruckers.com/

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OOIDA Board Members Talk Trucking Culture, Cohesion and Camaraderie

Mon, 17 Nov 2025 19:00:00 -0500

We’re lucky here at OOIDA headquarters in that twice a year, board members come in from all parts of North America to check in and talk about the direction the Association is taking. And since they're already here and already in a talking mood, we thought why not get them into Studio A to chat? So we did. In the first of three roundtable discussions, Matthew Bradley, Tilden Curl, Mike Nichols and Harry Smith stop by to talk about culture, cohesion and camaraderie in the trucking industry, the issues they’re most concerned about right now and more.

Join the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association: https://www.ooida.com/membership/

Tired of watching your rights eroded: https://fightingfortruckers.com/

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It Takes a Village to Help Vets in Need

Thu, 13 Nov 2025 19:00:00 -0500

Our Truckers for Troops campaign continues with Lee Cooper, veterans service officer for the Larimer County, Colorado Veterans Service Office. His job description is both simple and complicated. Simple in that his day-to-day is dedicated to helping veterans in need, but complicated because providing that help is often accompanied by bureaucratic red tape. It’s enough to make you feel helpless, but luckily there’s an antidote for helplessness: action. Lee explains how you can make a difference.

Truckers for Troops runs through Sunday, Nov. 16. Donate online, 24/7: www.ooida.com/t4t or call 816-229-5791.

Veterans Community Project: https://vcp.org/

Join the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association: https://www.ooida.com/membership/

Tired of watching your rights eroded: https://fightingfortruckers.com/

Subscribe for FREE to Land Line Magazine (online or print): https://landline.media/subscribe/

“Everything We Do Goes Back to Supporting Our Veterans”

Wed, 12 Nov 2025 19:00:00 -0500

Jennifer Seybold, executive director of the Veterans Community Project in Longmont, Colorado, knows the struggle too many veterans face all too well, which is why she dedicates herself each and every day to helping. That’s what the VCP does, and that’s why OOIDA’s Truckers for Troops campaign dedicates itself to supporting the nonprofit. Jennifer walks us through how you can as well, and the difference even a small donation can make.

Donate online, 24/7: www.ooida.com/t4t

Or by calling 816-229-5791 during business hours.

Veterans Community Project: https://vcp.org/

Join the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association: https://www.ooida.com/membership/

Tired of watching your rights eroded: https://fightingfortruckers.com/

Subscribe for FREE to Land Line Magazine (online or print): https://landline.media/subscribe/

Truckers for Troops: Failure is Not an Option at the Veterans Community Project

Tue, 11 Nov 2025 19:00:00 -0500

Truckers for Troops week continues with Chris Admire, executive director of the Veterans Community Project. Yes, it’s a tiny home community for veterans who need a place to live while they get their lives back on track. But it’s also so much more, most notably a place to get help in any form it’s needed, no matter what, no questions asked. Failure is not an option, and that attitude informs every decision VCP makes.

Veterans Community Project: https://vcp.org/

Are you in crisis? Feeling overwhelmed? Not sure where to turn? You are not alone. Call or text 988

Join the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association:

https://www.ooida.com/membership/

Tired of watching your rights eroded: https://fightingfortruckers.com/

Subscribe for FREE to Land Line Magazine (online or print): https://landline.media/subscribe/

Truckers for Troops Campaign Begins

Mon, 10 Nov 2025 19:00:00 -0500

OOIDA’s Truckers for Troops campaign is underway! Since 2007, more than $800,000 has been raised to send care package overseas to active-duty military – and in recent years – toward veterans in need here at home. Since it’s day one of the weeklong campaign, we figured it might be nice to talk to a few people who have been involved with Truckers for Troops since day one of the event itself. Brad Hennon, Nikki Johnson, Jami Jones and Norita Taylor explain how it began, what those early days were like and how all the money raised over the years has been a big thank you to all who served.

Donate online, 24/7: www.ooida.com/t4t

Or by calling 816-229-5791 during business hours.

Join the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association: https://www.ooida.com/membership/

Tired of watching your rights eroded: https://fightingfortruckers.com/

Subscribe for FREE to Land Line Magazine (online or print): https://landline.media/subscribe/

Cargo Thieves Eyeing Bigger Targets

Fri, 07 Nov 2025 19:00:00 -0500

Good news, bad news with regard to cargo thefts in the United States and Canada. The number of thefts appears to be leveling off. That’s the good news. The bad? The financial impact of cargo thefts is surging to record levels. Keith Lewis, VP of Operations at CargoNet, breaks down the numbers, the commodity thieves are targeting more than ever right now and the ways you can keep the bad guys at bay, as their tactics evolve.

#trucker #truckdriver #trucking #truckingindustry #truckingnews #cargotheft

Join the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association: https://www.ooida.com/membership/

Tired of watching your rights eroded: https://fightingfortruckers.com/

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The Eastern Transportation Coalition is Keeping the East Coast Moving

Thu, 06 Nov 2025 19:00:00 -0500

Take the 20 states that make up The Eastern Transportation Coalition, and you’ve got yourself the third largest economy in the world. So it stands to reason that getting those states on the same page when it comes to maintaining an efficient and safe interstate system is a tall task. And an important one. Executive director Trish Hendren explains how they do it – and why it’s important.

Join the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association: https://www.ooida.com/membership/

Tired of watching your rights eroded: https://fightingfortruckers.com/

Subscribe for FREE to Land Line Magazine (online or print): https://landline.media/subscribe/

“Brokers and Carriers are Saying the Same Thing. We're Just Speaking a Different Language.”

Wed, 05 Nov 2025 19:00:00 -0500

OOIDA has long been leading the fight for more broker transparency, so when executive vice president Lewie Pugh made the trip to Orlando last month for the Broker Carrier Summit, he knew the issue would come up. And it did, because Lewie made sure it did. And as a result, summit founder Dan Lindsey said some misunderstandings were cleared up, which is the whole point of the Broker Carrier Summit – narrowing the divide between brokers and carriers. Dan and Lewie explain how that ends up benefitting the industry as a whole.

Join the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association: https://www.ooida.com/membership/

Tired of watching your rights eroded: https://fightingfortruckers.com/

Subscribe for FREE to Land Line Magazine (online or print): https://landline.media/subscribe/

Calls for Stronger Driver Training Standards Grow Louder

Tue, 04 Nov 2025 19:00:00 -0500

With the Trump administration cracking down on English-language proficiency and non-domiciled CDLs, there’s an important issue at the very center of the conversation: driver training. Lots of folks are doing it right – but too many are not – which is what led us to reach out to a group that’s making sure its members do it right, the Commercial Vehicle Training Association. Executive Director Andrew Poliakoff and Chairman of the Board Jeff Burkhardt joins us to talk entry-level driver training standards, CDL mills, the Training Provider Registry and more.

#trucker #truckdriver #trucking #truckingindustry #truckingnews

Join the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association: https://www.ooida.com/membership/

Tired of watching your rights eroded: https://fightingfortruckers.com/

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Well That’s Concerning…

Mon, 03 Nov 2025 19:00:00 -0500

The American Transportation Research Institute is out with its annual Top Industry Issues report, and a few new issues cracked the top 10. But what might strike you is the difference between what motor carriers are concerned about and what truck drivers are concerned about. They don’t exactly line up. ATRI President Rebecca Brewster said there’s a lesson there, one that carriers would do well to learn.

Join the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association: https://www.ooida.com/membership/

Tired of watching your rights eroded: https://fightingfortruckers.com/

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The Driver Shortage Narrative May Finally (Hopefully) Be on its Last Legs

Fri, 31 Oct 2025 19:00:00 -0500

Is the driver shortage narrative finally coming to an end? Mark Schremmer of Land Line Magazine is cautiously optimistic based on a number of recent developments. He tells us why, then looks at the current slate of bills dedicated to English-language proficiency and non-domiciled CDLs (there’s a lot of them, for good reason) and then ahead to medium- and heavy-duty truck tariffs set to take effect (probably) this weekend.

Study Finds Link Between English-Language Violations and Unsafe Carriers

Thu, 30 Oct 2025 19:00:00 -0500

As the conversations around English-language proficiency ramped up several months ago, Professor Alex Scott got curious. So he did what he does. The associate professor of supply chain management at the University of Tennessee-Knoxville started to study the issue, which led to a report titled, “Are English-Language Violations Associated with Unsafe Carriers?” And while the answer to that question may not surprise you, the study yielded important conclusions while also raising important questions about the carriers that are making the problem worse.

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https://www.ooida.com/membership/

Tired of watching your rights eroded:

https://fightingfortruckers.com/

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Rep. David Rouzer is Working to Fix the Broken Non-Domiciled CDL System

Wed, 29 Oct 2025 19:00:00 -0500

There is no hotter topic in trucking right now than non-domiciled CDLs – and while the Trump administration has made enforcement a focal point, long-standing changes will take an act of Congress. Enter Representative David Rouzer of North Carolina, who recently introduced a bill that would create stricter requirements for the issuance of non-domiciled CDLs. The congressman joins the show to tell us what prompted the move – and why he feels the legislation could pick up bipartisan support on its way to becoming law.

Join the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association:

https://www.ooida.com/membership/

Tired of watching your rights eroded:

https://fightingfortruckers.com/

Land Line Magazine covers Rep. Rouzer's bill:

https://landline.media/bill-would-cement-fmcsas-emergency-cdl-rule/

Subscribe for FREE to Land Line Magazine (online or print): https://landline.media/subscribe/

What Makes Jimmy Mac Tick?

Tue, 28 Oct 2025 19:00:00 -0500

Jimmy Mac’s voice is familiar to anybody who listen to Radio Nemo – but how much do you know about the man you hear on the mic every morning? We set out to find out what makes Jimmy tick.

Join the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association:

https://www.ooida.com/membership/

Tired of watching your rights eroded:

https://fightingfortruckers.com/

Subscribe for FREE to Land Line Magazine (online or print):

https://landline.media/subscribe/

Women In Trucking and the Power of Bringing People Together

Mon, 27 Oct 2025 19:00:00 -0500

Women In Trucking is hosting its annual Accelerate! Conference and Expo in a couple weeks, and Jennifer Hedrick is ready to roll. The president and CEO of Women In Trucking walks us through the event and what to expect.

Join the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association:

https://www.ooida.com/membership/

Tired of watching your rights eroded:

https://fightingfortruckers.com/

Subscribe for FREE to Land Line Magazine (online or print):

https://landline.media/subscribe/

Honoring the Pioneers & Celebrating the History of Trucking

Fri, 24 Oct 2025 19:00:00 -0500

Tom Mullen has a pretty good gig as the chair of the American Trucking and Industry Leader Hall of Fame. They just inducted four new members who have shaped the trucking industry in important ways. Tom tells us about them and their contributions, along with other things that make his job at the American Truck Historical Society so fun.

Join the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association: https://www.ooida.com/membership/

Tired of watching your rights eroded: https://fightingfortruckers.com/

Subscribe for FREE to Land Line Magazine (online or print): https://landline.media/subscribe/

The Freight Recovery That Wasn’t (and Apparently Isn't Coming Anytime Soon)

Thu, 23 Oct 2025 19:00:00 -0500

Andrew King hates to be the bearer of bad news, but there are new, troubling signs that the freight market may be headed for significant hardship. Nobody wants to hear that, and it’s hard to believe things can get much worse, but the director of the OOIDA Foundation says the data out there can help people make more informed decisions about their business.

Dear Congress: Now’s the Time to Strengthen CDL Training Standards Across the Board

Wed, 22 Oct 2025 19:00:00 -0500

When it comes to roadway safety, the iron is hot, and OOIDA isn’t waiting for anyone else to strike it. With all the focus on English-language proficiency measures and non-domiciled CDL rules, the Association is calling on Congress to use that momentum to enhance driver training, licensing and qualification standards. After all, the issues go hand-in-hand. Collin Long, OOIDA director of government affairs, makes the case.

“The Highest Compliment Someone Can Pay Me is Saying That They Learned Something”

Tue, 21 Oct 2025 19:00:00 -0500

There are a lot of great trucking-centric channels on YouTube. “Trucking Made Successful” is one of them. If you’ve ever watched it, you know Miranda, who helps people make sound business decisions based on current conditions in the market. But it wasn’t that long ago that Miranda was teaching herself. In fact, she still is – and perhaps that’s why her content resonates so much with people, to the tune of 129,000 subscribers and 11.3 million views.

"We're in the Trough of Disillusionment Right Now"

Mon, 20 Oct 2025 19:00:00 -0500

Judge Tommy Fowler has concerns about autonomous vehicles – but they may not entirely line up with yours. The judge for the Craighead County District Court in Arkansas says current laws on the books are nowhere near ready for the long list of new challenges that driverless cars will – and already are – unleashing. Judge Fowler details his concerns from the perspective of the law.

The Adventures of Owner-Operator Dustin Ross & Stella - with a Special Appearance by Wagon Wheel

Fri, 17 Oct 2025 19:00:00 -0500

Owner-operator Dustin Ross has been weathering the storm that is this freight recession fairly well, but he knows plenty of people who haven’t. The OOIDA senior member discusses his inclusion in an NPR piece dedicated to the prolonged slowdown and what he’s doing to keep things moving, along with the origins of his father-son trucking company, his 2000 Sterling named Stella and more.

Prioritizing Truck Parking: PennDOT Secy. Mike Carroll Details Plans to Add 1,200+ Spaces

Thu, 16 Oct 2025 19:00:00 -0500

Pennsylvania is going big on parking. The state just announced plans to add more than 1,200 spaces across the commonwealth by the end of next year. The man leading the charge is PennDOT Secretary Mike Carroll. He tells us what prompted the push, what the plans call for and even his own experiences with a CDL.

“That Would Be Kind of a Neat Way to Make a Living...”

Wed, 15 Oct 2025 19:00:00 -0500

Tom Berg loves trucks. Always has. But it wasn’t until he started thumbing through trade magazines at a previous job when he realized he wanted to explore that love of trucks as a career. And he did. The contributing editor of Land Line Magazine walks us through those early days – and takes us down memory lane, recalling some of his favorite trucks over the past several decades.

SCOTUS Poised to Settle Big Broker Liability Question

Tue, 14 Oct 2025 19:00:00 -0500

We may be one step closer to clearing up a long-standing legal question about broker liability. That question being, can freight brokers be held responsible for crashes involving motor carriers they hire? The Supreme Court is taking up a case. Aaron Schepler, senior counsel for Husch Blackwell, walks us through the implications.

Driver Inc. 101: Ending the Predatory Scheme with Johanne Couture

Mon, 13 Oct 2025 19:00:00 -0500

There are new indications that the Canadian government is ready to get serious about Driver Inc., the employee misclassification scheme deemed by some to be the biggest threat facing the Canadian trucking industry. OOIDA board member Johanne Couture is among those fighting for change. She joins us from the road (on Thanksgiving in Canada, no less) to help us make sense of the problems being caused by Driver Inc. – and what it’ll take to end the scheme altogether.

The High Costs of Cargo Theft Come into View through ATRI Study

Fri, 10 Oct 2025 19:00:00 -0500

Cargo theft is a problem. That’s no surprise. But the American Transportation Research Institute’s newest report on cargo theft puts the problem into perspective. ATRI’s vice president, Jeff Short, walks us through what they found – along with strategies to curb the ever-growing problem.

Lindsay Lawler: Connecting Through Music and Trucking

Thu, 09 Oct 2025 19:00:00 -0500

Lindsay Lawler wears a lot of hats – singer, songwriter, radio host, “queso queen” – but most of all, she wants to be known as a “connector.” And it comes through in work, whether that be through her music or her show We Should Write on Radio Nemo. Lindsay walks us through her life, how trucking entered it, and her lifelong pursuit of forming connections with people from all walks of life.

50 Years of Land Line Magazine & Road Dog Coffee Company Tips Cap to Truckers

Mon, 06 Oct 2025 19:00:00 -0500

We’re celebrating the 50th anniversary of Land Line Magazine by welcoming in someone who’s been involved from the start. Todd Spencer reminisces about those early days, which included selling his truck to pay for the magazine’s first typesetting machine, and also reflects on everything the magazine has become since. Plus, Spencer Squier used to be a trucker. Now he’s the founder and CEO of Road Dog Coffee Company, which dubs itself as the nation’s first dedicated to showcasing and honoring truckers. And as Squier tells us, this is merely the start of his big plans.

Heavy Truck Tariff, Crawling Out of the Freight Recession and a GBATS Recap

Thu, 02 Oct 2025 19:00:00 -0500

The president recently identified another target for his tariffs: heavy trucks built overseas. Jason Miller, Eli Broad professor of supply chain management, breaks down the possible implications – and lays out why he believes the U.S. economy might already be in recession territory. Then, a recap of this past weekend’s Guilty By Association Truck Show.

How Exactly Did OOIDA Get CVSA to Revive English Proficiency Out-of-Service Rules?

Wed, 01 Oct 2025 19:00:00 -0500

When the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance holds its conferences, Lewie Pugh and Doug Morris of OOIDA are usually outnumbered amongst a sea of law enforcement officers, reps from the mega carriers and others. But that’s also why they go – to make sure the voices of small business truckers are heard. Lewie and Doug tell us about the most recent meeting, along with their thoughts on the 2025 Guilty By Association Truck Show. Then, Dan Lindsey explains how a lack of communication led him to launch the Broker-Carrier Summit, which takes place later this month in Florida.

USDOT Follows OOIDA's Lead on Non-domiciled CDLs

Tue, 30 Sep 2025 12:00:00 -0500

The U.S. Department of Transportation is clamping down on the issuance of non-domiciled CDLs. It’s a conversation that OOIDA has been driving. OOIDA director of government affairs Collin Long reacts to the big news. Plus, September is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, and therapist Buck Black joins us to shine a light on this important topic.

Overcoming Obstacles in Trucking as a One-Armed Driver

Fri, 26 Sep 2025 12:00:00 -0500

The Guilty By Association Truck Show is underway and our very own Scott Thompson is there. We'll check in with him. We then speak with OOIDA Member, Richard Horvath about the challenges he’s faced getting his CDL with only one arm. Plus, we get Brent Hutto from truckstop.com to break down all the spot market numbers and get some advice on what the next few months could have in store.

Second Chances through CDL Training, Plus Busting Up a Cargo Theft Ring in California

Thu, 25 Sep 2025 12:00:00 -0500

The Walton County Sheriff’s Office has a program that provides CDL training to inmates so they can hit the ground running after release. Deann Bertram joins the show to explain how it’s changing lives. Plus, Danny Ramon of Overhaul details how his company helped stop a suspected cargo theft ring in its tracks.

Preserving Personal Conveyance Provisions

Tue, 23 Sep 2025 12:00:00 -0500

The Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance is making a pitch that would limit personal conveyance. But why? Adrienne Gildea, deputy executive director of CVSA, joins the show to explain, while OOIDA president Todd Spencer makes his case on behalf of truck drivers. Plus, the Guilty By Association Truck Show is right around the corner; we'll speak with OOIDA's marketing department about what attendees can expect.

Making Prey of Predatory Lease-Purchase Agreements & Free Audiobooks for the Road are One App Away

Fri, 19 Sep 2025 12:00:00 -0500

The Truck Leasing Task Force turned up story after story of truck drivers being victimized by predatory lease-purchase agreements. A new bill in Congress would ensure others don’t suffer the same fate. Collin Long and Bryce Mongeon of OOIDA’s Washington D.C. office fill us in. Plus, you’ve got a lot of time to yourself on the road. Jim Hill, technical support specialist for an app called Libby, explains how its audiobooks can fill your cab with sound and entertainment on just about any topic you want – for free.

Pilot Programs Could Spur Big Changes for Hours of Service Rules - Plus, a Lifelong Love of Trucking

Thu, 18 Sep 2025 12:00:00 -0500

The U.S. Department of Transportation opened National Truck Driver Appreciation Week with an event in New Jersey, then promptly announced the details of two pilot programs that could lead to more flexibility with hours of service. Jay Grimes, OOIDA director of federal affairs, has the details. Plus, OOIDA board member Harry Smith on his lifelong love for trucking which, as we find out, runs both in the family and in his blood.

Happy National Truck Driver Appreciation Week!

Tue, 16 Sep 2025 12:00:00 -0500

As we celebrate you and the work you do, we’ll check in with Rebecca Oyler of the Pennsylvania Motor Truck Association to find out what they have planned, along with their efforts to make positive changes on the state and federal levels. Plus, Marty Ellis, driver of the OOIDA tour truck, breaks down what they have in store at a stop in Ohio this week.

Did Nebraska & Werner open the door to Kenyan truck drivers? Plus, Analysis of Latest Trucking News

Fri, 12 Sep 2025 12:00:00 -0500

Road rumors happen, but that’s exactly what they are until confirmed: rumors. The latest involves the state of Nebraska, CDLs and the country of Kenya. We’ll set the record straight with the help of Tyson Fisher and Mark Schremmer of Land Line Magazine – and cover other news that’s making headlines of late, from the highway bill and the broken DataQ system to tariffs, an exemption request and a new regulatory agenda that puts broker transparency action a little further off.

Dean Ash on Truckers Paradise – More Than Just a Truck Stop

Thu, 11 Sep 2025 11:00:00 -0500

We all know that free spaces dedicated specifically for tractor-trailers are always welcome – but surveys have shown that truckers also want and need more – from bathrooms and food options to fuel and more. Which yes, describes a truck stop, but Dean Ash has taken that concept and run with it. Dean is the CEO of Truckers Paradise, a truck stop in Gainesville, Texas that’s really more like a truckers’ village. The concept is simple, but powerful – provide truck drivers a place where they can park safely, for free, and give them all those things they want and need. On today’s Trucking with OOIDA, we talk to Dean about how it all came to be – and what his plans for the future look like.

Harmful Claims About the Truck Parking Crisis & Petitioning FMCSA on ELP requirements

Tue, 09 Sep 2025 12:00:00 -0500

We recently rebutted a report that has been claiming on social media that there is no truck parking shortage (there most certainly is). Today, we let Lewie Pugh, executive vice president of OOIDA, off the chain to go after the claims, with some assistance from Tyson Fisher, associate editor of Land Line Magazine. Plus, OOIDA member Natasha Cruz-Sanchez breaks down her petition that’s asking the U.S. DOT to establish English-language proficiency as a formal endorsement.

Road Law Attorneys Share Wildest Cases

Fri, 05 Sep 2025 07:00:00 -0500

The guys at Road Law have just about seen it all as practicing attorneys working on behalf of commercial truck drivers. Jeff McConnell and James Mennella join the show to break down their careers, a few memorable cases that left an impression and more.

Truck Parking Shortage is REAL | OOIDA Debunks False Study + Cybersecurity Threats in Trucking

Thu, 04 Sep 2025 11:00:00 -0500

Let’s be clear from the start: there is a truck parking shortage. But there’s a new “study” out there claiming the opposite. Not only does that fly in the face of extensive research, it runs counter to the everyday experiences of truck drivers. Andrew King of the OOIDA Foundation returns to debunk the claims and lay out the real facts. Plus, Artie Crawford of the National Motor Freight Traffic Association sounds the alarm about cybersecurity threats from China that may be targeting equipment in your truck.

Bryan “Bossman” Martin on Chrome Shop Mafia & GBATS 2025

Tue, 02 Sep 2025 07:00:00 -0500

If you’ve ever even thought about customizing your truck, you’re likely aware of Chrome Shop Mafia and 4 State Trucks – which means you’re also aware of Bryan “Bossman” Martin and the outstanding work he and his team do. Bryan joins the show in an encore presentation to discuss his career, the upcoming Guilty By Association Truck Show in Joplin, Missouri and more.

Bigger Trucks Debate & Ohio DOT Tackles Parking Shortage

Fri, 29 Aug 2025 11:00:00 -0500

There’s a renewed effort on Capitol Hill to allow bigger and heavier trucks on U.S. roadways, but just as they have been from the start, OOIDA is pushing back. Bryce Mongeon, OOIDA director of legislative affairs, provides an update and a call to action. Plus, Chris Hughes of the Ohio DOT breaks down the state’s active and ongoing response to the truck parking shortage. They’re not just talking the talk, they’re walking the walk.

Speed Limiter Mandate Fight + Survivor Story with Kim Kelley

Thu, 28 Aug 2025 11:00:00 -0500

U.S. Representative Josh Brecheen is busy hosting town halls in Oklahoma right now, but takes some time to call in to Trucking with OOIDA to talk about his ongoing attempts to keep FMCSA from imposing a speed limiter mandate – now or ever. Plus, Kim Kelley, a survivor of cult abuse and child trafficking, joins the show to share what signs to look for, and how to take action if you spot them, to possibly save someone’s childhood and life.

Cross-Border Trucking, Emissions Reversal & Fraud Alerts

Tue, 26 Aug 2025 07:00:00 -0500

From action on non-domiciled CDLs and the planned reversal of a key finding that led to years of strict emission standards to autonomous trucks and the cross-border trucking economy, Tyson Fisher and Mark Schremmer of Land Line Magazine join Scott and Ashley to discuss how OOIDA is driving the conversation on behalf of truckers. Plus, Danielle “The Fraud Girl” Spinelli breaks down the latest schemes going around – with tips on staying off fraudsters’ radars.

Ohio’s New Trucking Caucus: A Trucker-Turned-Lawmaker Speaks Out

Fri, 22 Aug 2025 11:00:00 -0500

There are some good things going in Ohio with regard to trucking. One example: a new bipartisan group in the statehouse that’s dedicated specifically to trucking issues. It’s the brainchild of Ohio State Rep. Jack Daniels, a trucker-turned-legislator. He joins the show to talk about that transition, the Ohio Trucking Caucus and more. Plus, Randy Guillot, president of Triple G Express, walks us through his years-long involvement with Operation Sideswipe, the staged-accident scheme in New Orleans that continues to make national headlines.

OOIDA Calls on DOT to Get Handle on Non-domiciled CDLs; Plus, Recruiting Next Generation of Truckers

Thu, 21 Aug 2025 12:00:00 -0500

There may not be a hotter topic in trucking right now than non-domiciled CDLs – and OOIDA is taking action, calling on the Department of Transportation to suspend the authority states have to issue non-domiciled CDLs until a review has been completed and steps are taken to ensure that CDLs are only issued to qualified drivers. OOIDA President Todd Spencer says it’s just the first step. Plus, Lindsey Trent, co-founder and president of the Next Generation in Trucking Association explains how she’s working to get more younger people interested in trucking as a career.

Custom Rigs & Chrome Dreams: Bryan “Bossman” Martin Talks Trucking

Tue, 19 Aug 2025 11:00:00 -0500

If you’ve ever even thought about customizing your truck, you’re likely aware of Chrome Shop Mafia and 4 State Trucks – which means you’re also aware of Bryan “Bossman” Martin and the outstanding work he and his team do. Bryan joins the show to discuss his career, the upcoming Guilty By Association Truck Show in Joplin, Missouri and more.

AI in Trucking & Missouri’s I-70 Expansion

Fri, 15 Aug 2025 11:00:00 -0500

Artificial intelligence is coming whether we like it or not, and it’s likely to change the world in ways we can’t even imagine. But Jacky Zhao of Truckstop.com says the changes are already happening. He’s been keeping a watchful eye on the way in which AI is being used in trucking right now, and the ways in which it might be used in the future. He joins us to discuss. Plus, we’ll talk maps with Ed Hassinger, director of the Missouri Department of Transportation, and also find out how the massive project to widen Interstate 70 across the Show Me State is progressing.

EPA Responds to DEF Shutdown Concerns | Truck Parking Push in Ohio

Thu, 14 Aug 2025 07:00:00 -0500

Big news out of the Environmental Protection Agency this week, which responded to concerns about diesel exhaust fluid with some action. The goal is to prevent sudden shutdowns in trucks and other diesel-powered vehicles. We’ll break down the announcement, and analyze what comes next with Lewie Pugh, Jim Jefferson and Jay Grimes of OOIDA. Plus, Thomas Balzer, CEO and President of the Ohio Trucking Association on the big truck parking push in the Buckeye State, the new caucus in the statehouse dedicated solely to trucking and more.

How New Tariffs Could Impact Trucking in 2025

Tue, 12 Aug 2025 07:00:00 -0500

The word of 2025 just might be “tariff” – and a new round just went into effect against dozens of countries. What effects are we already seeing, what effects are on the way and how does trucking fit into all of it? Jason Miller of Michigan State University’s Eli Broad College of Business walks us through all of it.

Superloads, Coffee, and the Road Ahead

Fri, 08 Aug 2025 11:00:00 -0500

This summer, dozens of superloads are making their way across the state of Oregon – and it’s up to Omega Morgan to make sure they get there safe and sound. But that’s no small feat. Project manager Doug Smith joins the show to talk about the planning, the process and the challenges along the way. Plus, Linda Young may be a truck agent for OOIDA right now, but before that, she was an expert of a different kind. Linda tells us about her time as a coffee sommelier in the ‘80s – and provides some advice on finding a great cup of joe.

Truck to Success Preview & Helping Truckers in Times of Need

Thu, 07 Aug 2025 11:00:00 -0500

The road to success can be bumpy for an owner-operator – but there is a playbook to make the ride a little smoother. Andrew King of the OOIDA Foundation stops by with a preview of this year’s Truck to Success seminar. Plus, when tragedy strikes, many truck drivers don’t have a safety net. We speak with Courtney Niemann and Diane Hutsell of the St. Christopher Truckers Relief Fund, which is making sure someone catches them when they fall.

Truck Stops as Critical Infrastructure? + Spot Market, Bats & De Minimis with Brent Hutto

Tue, 05 Aug 2025 11:00:00 -0500

Truck stops are an essential location for any truck driver, for obvious reasons. But a new research paper argues they’re also critical infrastructure, providing essential services during times of emergencies. We talk to the paper’s researchers about what they learned. Plus, we talk bats, the state of the spot market and the suspension of the de minimis exemption with Brent Hutto of Truckstop.com.

Trucking News Recap + Magazine Preview

Fri, 01 Aug 2025 11:00:00 -0500

From 15 years of emission regulations on the chopping block and the tariff effect on cross-border freight to comprehensive coverage of the Trump administration deregulatory push and more, Tyson Fisher, Jami Jones and Mark Schremmer of Land Line Magazine hop into the studio to recap the latest trucking news and preview their upcoming August/September issue.

Lewie Pugh Breaks Down the Senate Hearing + Carlisle Truck Nationals Preview

Thu, 31 Jul 2025 07:00:00 -0500

Our returning champion, Lewie Pugh, returns to Trucking with OOIDA for a debriefing after his appearance at a Senate subcommittee hearing last week. And while OOIDA’s executive vice president said the trip was productive, there are a few questions he wishes were asked of him during the hearing. We’ll give him a chance to do just that in a wide-ranging discussion. Plus, Mike Garland of the Carlisle Truck Nationals calls in with a preview of this weekend’s event in Pennsylvania.

54 Years Behind the Wheel: Doug Smith Shares Trucking Stories & Hauling “The Wall That Heals”

Tue, 29 Jul 2025 07:00:00 -0500

When you’ve been a truck driver for more than 50 years, you’re going to have more than a few stories to share. That tracks for OOIDA board member Doug Smith, who joins the show to share how he got started (somewhat reluctantly) and why he’s still doing it all these years later (spoiler alert: he loves it). Doug will also tell us about the “spiritual experience” of hauling The Wall That Heals, what it was like being on a reality show, his ever-so-brief cameo in a classic baseball movie and much, much more.

Cargo Theft on the Rise & Fighting Human Trafficking Nationwide

Fri, 25 Jul 2025 11:00:00 -0500

How high can we go? Cargo theft numbers are still going up – and the criminals are adjusting their targets to fit their needs. But the good guys are fighting back, and Keith Lewie of CargoNet briefs us on how those efforts are going. Plus, Kylla Lanier of TAT explains how the fight against human trafficking now includes all 50 states standing together for the first time, news of the days and more – on a brand-new edition of Trucking with OOIDA.

What Congress Needs to Hear from Truckers + The Truth About Autonomous Vehicles

Thu, 24 Jul 2025 11:00:00 -0500

On today’s Trucking with OOIDA, we cover executive vice president Lewie Pugh’s testimony before a Senate subcommittee that asked for guidance for the trucking industry while crafting the next highway bill. Plus, as far as the safety of autonomous vehicles go, what do we know – and what don’t we know?

Hackers, Helpers, and Hauling On: Cybersecurity and Compassion in Trucking

Tue, 22 Jul 2025 11:00:00 -0500

Owner-operators have enough to worry about – which is why thinking about cybersecurity isn’t usually at front of mind. But it is for Ben Wilkens, cybersecurity principal engineer for the National Motor Freight Traffic Association, who joins the show with some advice. Plus, Abbigail Huffman of the American Transportation Research Institute breaks down a new study on demographics in the trucking industry, and Jonatan Quiros of Clark Freight details his efforts to help flood victims in Texas on an all-new Trucking with OOIDA.

From Capitol Hill to Hauling Elephants: Lewie Pugh, Oversized Loads & Medical Certs Explained

Fri, 18 Jul 2025 12:00:00 -0500

Fresh off big wins on behalf of U.S.

truckers, the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association has its sights on

even more. Executive Vice President Lewie Pugh is heading to Capitol Hill next

week for that very reason. We’ll get a preview. Plus, how does one begin

hauling elephants? And what does that even look like? We’ve got questions.

Stephen Fritz has the answers, because that’s what he does. We’ll also clear up

the recent confusion about the medical certification process and cover the news

on a brand new episode of Trucking with OOIDA.

Fixing the Driver Shortage, Hauling Superloads, and Jamboree Recap with OOIDA

Thu, 17 Jul 2025 07:00:00 -0500

Making positive changes in the trucking industry can feel like an uphill climb, especially when there are so many forces pulling in different directions. But trucker Will Cook has a few ideas that he believes will get things back on track. He lays those out in his new book, “The Driver Shortage,” and he’ll share some of those thoughts with us. Plus, what’s it take to haul superloads across Wyoming? Andrea Staley of the Wyoming DOT tells us. Plus, Marty Ellis, driver of the OOIDA tour truck, has a recap of last weekend’s Walcott Truckers Jamboree and more – on a brand new episode of Trucking with OOIDA.

From the Road to the Stage: A Trucking Musician's America's Got Talent Journey

Tue, 15 Jul 2025 12:00:00 -0500

Bill Taylor’s day job may be trucking, but his passion is music – and for good reason. The Kentucky trucker/singer-songwriter just made a splash on national television with his voice and his band, Bill Taylor and The Appalachian Heatherns. Bill joins the show to talk about his appearance, his music, his family and his trucking career in a wide-ranging conversation.

Speed Limiters Removed and Truckers Respond to Texas Flood Crisis

Thu, 10 Jul 2025 12:00:00 -0500

The Trump administration may have punted the prospects of a speed limiter mandate anytime soon, but that won’t stop future administrations from bringing it back. U.S. Sen. Steve Daines has a solution though – and he’ll join the show to tell us about it. Plus, we travel down to Texas for a look at how truckers are helping in the aftermath of deadly flooding and visit with a truck driver who’s also a singer-songwriter, plus news of the day and more on a brand-new Trucking with OOIDA.

Spot Market Surge? Brent Hutto Says Yes + Overtime Pay Push & Rail Plans

Tue, 08 Jul 2025 11:00:00 -0500

On today’s Trucking with OOIDA, we explore the latest spot market data with Brent Hutto of Truckstop.com – who notes something new that we haven’t seen in years, and it’s a positive sign for owner-operators. Plus, a new pitch for overtime pay for truckers, ambitious plans for a coast-to-coast high-speed rail project, and Alex Leslie of the American Transportation Research Institute breaks down what a new report on operational costs tells us about the challenges facing the industry.

Pro-Trucker Wins in D.C.? OOIDA’s Collin Long Reacts to DOT’s Big Announcement

Thu, 03 Jul 2025 11:00:00 -0500

When the U.S. DOT announced last week it was launching nine pro-trucker initiatives, Collin Long may have been as happy as anyone. As OOIDA’s director of government affairs, he’s been pushing for these changes in Washington D.C. as hard as anyone. We’ll let him take a victory lap, while acknowledging that the game is far from over. Plus, a nuclear verdict gets overturned, cargo thieves are licking their chops this holiday weekend and more, as we usher in a brand new episode of Trucking with OOIDA.

DOT Delivers Big Win for Truckers: Lewie Pugh Breaks It Down

Tue, 01 Jul 2025 11:00:00 -0500

Ask and ye shall receive… eventually. The U.S. Department of Transportation delivered a big win for truck drivers late last week when it introduced nine initiatives ranging from increasing truck parking capacity and kicking the speed limiter mandate proposal to the curb to launching hours-of-service pilot programs and more. OOIDA had a big hand in getting the issues addressed, and executive vice president Lewie Pugh stops by again to explain what happens next. Plus, we celebrate Canada Day on an all-new episode of Trucking with OOIDA.

From the Cab to the White House: Gina Jones' Story and More

Fri, 27 Jun 2025 11:00:00 -0500

On this episode of Trucking with OOIDA, hosts Ashley Blackford and Scott Thompson hear firsthand from truck driver Gina Jones about her unforgettable trip to the White House—where she didn’t just attend, but spoke at the podium in the East Room with President Trump just steps away. Plus, we preview the upcoming Walcott Truckers Jamboree, discuss growing concerns over tracking technology targeting drivers, and bring you the latest news from across the industry.

Freight Market Realities, English Proficiency Rules, and AI on the Rise

Thu, 26 Jun 2025 11:00:00 -0500

On today’s Trucking with OOIDA, a frank conversation on the state of the freight market with Andrew King, director of the OOIDA Foundation, amid low rates and weak volume and demand. Plus, English proficiency is officially back to being an out-of-service violation, artificial intelligence is starting to pick up steam and more.

Angela Griffin of Simple Livin’ + ELD Exemption Facts & Safety Reminders

Tue, 24 Jun 2025 12:00:00 -0500

On today’s Trucking with OOIDA, truck driver Angela Griffin joins the show to talk about her popular YouTube channel, Simple Livin’, and everything it entails. Plus, we’ll knock down a road rumor that’s making the rounds about the electronic logging device pre-2000 engine exemption, provide some reminders about staying safe amid a rise in protests nationwide and more.

Fuel Price Panic, Rest Break Exemptions, and the Future of Flying Cars

Fri, 20 Jun 2025 11:00:00 -0500

On today’s Trucking with OOIDA, we’re going to drill down into the perceived panic about fuel prices as tensions flare up again in the Middle East with Tom Kloza, longtime energy analyst who’s seen just about everything there is to see when it comes to oil and fuel. We also break down Shell Starship 3.0’s role in the IndyCar Series and a renewed exemption that makes an argument for tossing out the 30-minute rest break requirement. Plus – are we finally getting flying cars?

Talking Old Trucks and Timeless Values with OOIDA President Todd Spencer

Thu, 19 Jun 2025 11:00:00 -0500

On today’s Trucking with OOIDA, the Association’s executive vice president Lewie Pugh joins hosts Ashley Blackford and Scott Thompson for a wide-ranging discussion about unannounced safety blitzes, strains on the supply chain, OOIDA’s efforts to make the industry work for everyone and more.