The Freight Coach Podcast

Chris Jolly

The Freight Coach Podcast is your go-to resource for all things freight, logistics, and transportation. Hosted by industry expert Chris Jolly, this podcast dives deep into the latest trends, insights, and strategies that drive the freight world. Each episode features conversations with top industry professionals, offering valuable tips on everything from supply chain optimization and freight technology to navigating the complexities of logistics management. Whether you're a seasoned pro or new to the world of freight, The Freight Coach Podcast delivers the knowledge you need to stay ahead of the curve and optimize your freight operations. Tune in for actionable advice, thought-provoking discussions, and a glimpse into the future of freight!

  1. 1393. #TFCP - The Future of Logistics Education: Role-Based Mastery in 2026!

    18H AGO

    1393. #TFCP - The Future of Logistics Education: Role-Based Mastery in 2026!

    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/

    32 min
  2. 1392. #TFCP - Scams & Sweeps: How the DOT is Cleaning Up the Freight Market!

    3D AGO

    1392. #TFCP - Scams & Sweeps: How the DOT is Cleaning Up the Freight Market!

    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/

    31 min
  3. 1391. #TFCP - Bridging the Gap: Carrier-Broker Synergy in a Tight Market!

    4D AGO

    1391. #TFCP - Bridging the Gap: Carrier-Broker Synergy in a Tight Market!

    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/

    31 min
  4. 1390. #TFCP - The Power of Prediction: Navigating the 2026 Freight Cycle!

    5D AGO

    1390. #TFCP - The Power of Prediction: Navigating the 2026 Freight Cycle!

    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/

    34 min
  5. 1389. #TFCP - Tech & Transformation: Mastering Change Management in Freight!

    6D AGO

    1389. #TFCP - Tech & Transformation: Mastering Change Management in Freight!

    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/

    33 min
  6. 1388. #TFCP - The End of Cold Calling: How AI is Automating Freight Sales!

    FEB 16

    1388. #TFCP - The End of Cold Calling: How AI is Automating Freight Sales!

    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/

    32 min
  7. 1387. #TFCP - The Seasonal Pivot: Roses, Reefer, and Produce Season 2026!

    FEB 13

    1387. #TFCP - The Seasonal Pivot: Roses, Reefer, and Produce Season 2026!

    Are floral freight rates the first warning sign of a tightening reefer market? Is Florida enforcement reshaping capacity faster than most carriers expected? Are you positioned for the Southeast produce surge before the peak season hits? Dean Croke of DAT Freight & Analytics is back to break down how Valentine's Day floral demand funneled through Miami pushed outbound freight rates up, why immigration scale house enforcement is cutting reefer capacity, and how the upcoming produce season will impact national trucking rates, refrigerated freight trends, and contract negotiations. We also dig into DAT freight data showing national rates higher year over year despite soft volumes, explain how seasonal demand shifts, tender rejection rates, and regulatory changes are driving spot market opportunities, and talk honestly about enforcement challenges affecting minority drivers while emphasizing compliance, industry integrity, and long-term freight market stability as capacity tightens and the trucking industry moves toward a more predictable recovery through 2026 for carriers, brokers, and shippers who stay informed and adaptable!   About Dean Croke Dean is the Prinicpal Analyst at DAT Freight & Analytics, the leader in market and pricing intelligence and operates the largest truckload freight marketplace in North America. He is a Global Supply Chain and Logistics Executive specializing in freight market analytics, multi-modal freight flows, thought leadership, and the application of business intelligence using digital technologies.    Connect with Dean Website: https://www.dat.com/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deancroke/  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@datfreight  DAT iQ Help Center: https://iq.support.dat.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/

    34 min
  8. 1386. #TFCP - COI Forensics: Spotting Fakes and Avoiding the Chameleon Carrier Trap!

    FEB 12

    1386. #TFCP - COI Forensics: Spotting Fakes and Avoiding the Chameleon Carrier Trap!

    Are fraud rings quietly manipulating the trucking industry? Are brokers relying too much on outdated Certificate of Insurance? And what happens when stricter DOT enforcement reshapes how freight moves across the country? In this episode, Cameron Pechia of Valley Trucking Insurance explains how organized trucking fraud - from chameleon carriers and fake insurance documents to criminal syndicates influencing CDLs, financing, and compliance - is forcing brokers and carriers to tighten verification processes and rethink risk management across the supply chain! We talk about why Certificate of Insurance is a weak proof without direct verification, how upcoming DOT regulations and increased enforcement may trigger short-term spikes in freight fraud, and why brokers should implement 30-60 day insurance and credential re-verification cycles to protect loads. Cam also dives into how stronger regulatory standards, better insurance verification practices, and real collaboration with trusted providers can help ethical trucking companies thrive while improving market stability, reducing carrier failure rates, and strengthening overall supply chain security.   About Cameron Pechia Cameron is the founder of Valley Trucking Insurance, a leading Trucking Insurance Agency based in Spokane, Washington. With a deep passion for the trucking industry and a commitment to excellence, Cameron has become a trusted figure in the field. Cameron also is the host of Get A Load Of This Trucking Podcast and brings a ton of value to the Trucking Industry. Cameron is also a dedicated husband and father to his two beautiful girls…His daughters are his "WHY" and what makes him get up in the morning and try to win each and every day.  At Valley Trucking Insurance, Cameron oversees the provision of specialized insurance solutions tailored to the unique needs of trucking companies. The agency serves a diverse clientele, including local trucking companies, long-haul trucking companies, aggregate haulers, tow truck companies, hot shots, freight brokers, and other related risks. Cameron ensures that clients receive the highest level of customer service and comprehensive coverage through the agency's proven process known as the "VTI Difference." Under Cameron's leadership, Valley Trucking Insurance has achieved significant growth and expansion across the county. The agency has built strong partnerships with renowned insurance providers such as Great West Casualty Company, Lancer Insurance Company, Progressive Insurance, Berkshire, and Canal. Additionally, Cameron also focuses on placing fleet-sized trucking companies into captive insurance programs, enhancing their risk management and financial stability. Looking ahead, Cameron is focused on an ambitious goal of expanding the agency's reach by looking to help over 10,000 Trucking Companies and Freight Brokerage operations within the next seven years. Adhering to the principles outlined in the book Traction by Geno Wickman, he is dedicated to creating world-class onboarding and customer service experience for his trucking clients. This initiative aims to foster a culture of excellence and continuous improvement, ensuring Valley Trucking Insurance remains at the forefront of the industry.   Connect with Cameron Website: https://www.valleytruckinginsurance.com/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cameron-pechia-49903072/  Email: Cameron@alllinesinsure.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/

    34 min
4.8
out of 5
79 Ratings

About

The Freight Coach Podcast is your go-to resource for all things freight, logistics, and transportation. Hosted by industry expert Chris Jolly, this podcast dives deep into the latest trends, insights, and strategies that drive the freight world. Each episode features conversations with top industry professionals, offering valuable tips on everything from supply chain optimization and freight technology to navigating the complexities of logistics management. Whether you're a seasoned pro or new to the world of freight, The Freight Coach Podcast delivers the knowledge you need to stay ahead of the curve and optimize your freight operations. Tune in for actionable advice, thought-provoking discussions, and a glimpse into the future of freight!

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