Trucking for Millennials PDQ America

In this episode of the Trucking for Millennials podcast, we had the pleasure of hosting Ken Adamo, the Chief of Analytics at DAT Solutions. Ken brought a wealth of knowledge and insights into the world of freight analytics, sharing his expertise on how data can drive better decision-making in the logistics industry.
We kicked off the conversation by discussing the challenges of absorbing and utilizing analytic information in the freight industry. Ken emphasized the importance of mastering the basics of pricing freight and understanding market conditions before diving into more advanced analytics. He shared practical advice for small brokers on how to effectively use DAT's tools to price freight accurately and make informed decisions.
Ken also provided a fascinating history of DAT, which started as a dial-a-truck load finder service in 1978 at a truck stop in Portland, Oregon. He highlighted the evolution of freight analytics over the years and the importance of historical data in understanding market trends.
We delved into the impact of election years on freight rates, with Ken explaining how political uncertainty can affect investment and, consequently, the freight market. He also touched on the cyclical nature of the freight industry, describing the typical four-year cycles of expansion and contraction and where we currently stand in that cycle.
One of the key takeaways from our discussion was the importance of contract freight for brokers. Ken explained that while securing contract freight can ensure long-term success, it also requires careful planning and accurate forecasting to avoid potential pitfalls.
Ken's passion for logistics and freight was evident throughout the conversation. He shared his journey from working in deregulated energy to falling in love with the complexities of the freight industry at FedEx. His enthusiasm for data and analytics was contagious, and he provided valuable insights into how brokers and carriers can leverage data to improve their operations.
Overall, this episode was packed with actionable advice and deep insights into the world of freight analytics. Whether you're a small broker looking to improve your pricing strategies or a carrier navigating the complexities of the market, Ken's expertise offers valuable guidance to help you succeed in the ever-evolving logistics landscape.

In this special episode of the Trucking for Millennials podcast, we dive into the vibrant atmosphere of the Transportation Marketing and Sales Association event in New Orleans, Louisiana.
Our first guest, Jim Kenny, a seasoned expert in non-asset-based sales, shares invaluable insights into the vital behaviors of sales professionals. Jim breaks down the sales process into six essential blocks: pre-call planning, sales call opening, needs assessment, solution development, closing, and follow-up. He emphasizes the importance of differentiation, discovery, and asking needs-based questions to build meaningful connections with customers and carriers. Jim also highlights the challenges of post-COVID sales environments and the necessity of specific, targeted communication to increase engagement and response rates.
In the second half of the episode, we shift gears to a heartwarming conversation with Christian, Joe, and Rachael from Mohawk Global, a family-owned 3PL company. They share their unique experiences working in a family business and the core values that drive their organization: care, enrich, and deliver. The discussion delves into their compassionate leadership style, the no-layoff policy, and the various initiatives they have in place to support their employees and communities. From a charitable fund to community gardens, Mohawk Global exemplifies how leading with love and transparency can create a thriving, supportive work environment.
This episode is packed with practical advice for sales professionals and inspiring stories of how values-driven leadership can make a significant impact in the logistics industry. Whether you're looking to refine your sales techniques or seeking inspiration for building a strong company culture, this episode has something for everyone.

This episode centers around a recent controversy involving Truck Parking Club, dubbed the "Airbnb of truck parking." We discuss an article from Overdrive Online that highlights the backlash Truck Parking Club has faced for converting previously free truck parking spaces into paid reservations. Veteran truck drivers have voiced their concerns about the financial strain this places on them and how the solution to one of the top issues of the industry for truck drivers potentially creating more problems. 
What do you think? Let us know your thoughts on paid truck parking!

In this episode of the Trucking for Millennials podcast, we dive deep into the critical topic of managing stress and the importance of solving problems effectively. Our guest, Tom Bray, a senior industry business advisor at JJ Keller & Associates, shares his invaluable insights on various pain points faced by trucking companies today.
 
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In this episode of the Trucking for Millennials podcast, we kick things off by reflecting on Memorial Day. We express our gratitude to service members, both past and present, for their sacrifices.
We then dive into some significant freight news, discussing a new bill that aims to fine double brokers $10,000. This legislation seeks to enhance transparency and accountability in the trucking industry by targeting fraudulent practices. We debate whether this bill will effectively deter double brokering or if it will just lead to new loopholes.
Next, we shift gears to the topic of electric trucks, highlighting the recent Advanced Clean Transportation Expo. We discuss Tesla's push for the trucking industry to adopt fully purpose-built electric vehicles and the challenges faced by traditional OEMs in transitioning to electric powertrains. We also touch on Kenworth's new Super Truck 2 concept, which boasts impressive aerodynamic design and efficiency improvements.
The conversation then broadens to the overall complexity of transitioning to greener technologies in the trucking industry. We explore the balance between maintaining diesel engines, which currently dominate the market, and investing in zero-emission technologies. The discussion includes insights from industry leaders on the need for improved infrastructure and collaboration to support this transition.
To provide a deeper perspective, we revisit a debate we hosted last year between Niki Okuk of Cal Start and David Heller of the Truckload Carrier Association. They discuss the practical challenges and potential benefits of transitioning to electric trucks, particularly focusing on charging infrastructure and the feasibility of long-haul electric trucking.
Overall, this episode offers a comprehensive look at the current state and future of electric trucks in the industry, highlighting both the progress being made and the hurdles that still need to be overcome. We invite our listeners to share their thoughts on these developments and stay tuned for more insightful discussions in future episodes.

Hello, Trucking for Millennials listeners! In this week's episode, we've put together a special mashup featuring some of the most engaging and insightful conversations from our recent episodes. Whether you're a first-time listener or a long-time fan, this episode serves as a fantastic sampler of the diverse voices and perspectives we've had the pleasure of hosting.
We kicked off the episode with a discussion on the challenges and dynamics faced by small trucking companies, especially in terms of insurance and regulatory pressures. Our guests shared their experiences and insights on how these factors can disproportionately impact smaller operators in the industry.
We also delved into the topic of driver pay and retention, a critical issue in the trucking industry. Our guests discussed the realistic expectations for driver salaries, considering the current market conditions and the operational challenges faced by carriers. The conversation highlighted the importance of aligning driver pay with mileage and the overall financial health of the company.
Safety in trucking, always a priority, was another key focus. We discussed the impact of Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs) on driver operations and safety, with insights from veteran drivers who have seen the industry's evolution from paper logs to ELDs. The discussion also touched on the broader implications of technology in trucking, including tracking and monitoring systems.
Lastly, we explored the potential boycott by truckers in response to political and social issues, examining how misinformation can spread and affect the industry. This segment provided a critical look at the influence of media and personal networks in shaping truckers' actions and industry reactions.
As always, we wrapped up with a reminder for our listeners to engage with us through reviews, comments, and suggestions for future guests. Your feedback is invaluable as we continue to explore the issues that matter most in the trucking industry.
Stay tuned for next week's episode, which promises to bring another round of engaging discussions and expert insights. Thanks for joining us, and keep on trucking!