Transportation Nation

Bennett Family of Companies

Transportation Nation is brought to you by the Bennett Family of Companies and discusses all things in the transportation and logistics industry. 

  1. 2D AGO

    Bennett Presents: Insider Tips for MATS Truck Show, Concerts & Trucking Innovation

    Step inside the heart of trucking culture at America’s biggest truck show—MATS, where pride, innovation, and community collide! In this episode of Transportation Nation, hosts Lee Gentry and Jason Brady pull back the curtain on the annual Mid-America Truck Show in Louisville, Kentucky, sharing insider tips, unforgettable memories, and exciting event highlights you won’t want to miss. Get ready as Jason Brady and Lee Gentry—both seasoned pros with decades in the industry—discuss everything from the jaw-dropping trucks on display in the legendary parking lot, to the game-changing technology that’s revolutionized trucking over the last 50 years. Special attention goes to the proud tradition of “Show and Shine,” the electrifying PKY truck light show, and Bennett’s sponsorship of the Friday night concert featuring Long Haul Paul, Mark Ware, and Frank Foster—an all-star lineup for trucking fans. Tune in for key insights like: What truly sets MATS apart as the kickoff truck show of the season and why it’s a “must-walk” event for anyone passionate about trucking.The powerful sense of community at the show—connecting executives, owner-operators, and supporting organizations in an industry-wide celebration.How Bennett’s involvement extends beyond Louisville, from organizing their own Stars, Stripes and White Lines truck show to fundraising for Wreaths Across America, honoring veterans in meaningful ways.Whether you’re a first-time attendee seeking tips or a longtime trucker eager for nostalgia and networking, this episode delivers firsthand perspectives, practical advice, and plenty of warm encouragement to join the action. Plus, discover who’s competing in the jaw-dropping tractor pull, hear about the Women In Trucking initiative’s growing impact, and learn how to snag your concert tickets from the Bennett booth. Subscribe for more conversations like this—celebrating trucking, community, and the stories that move America forward! CHAPTERS: 00:00 The Must‑See MATS Parking Lot Experience 02:47 Comparing Trucking Then and Now: A Veteran’s Perspective 04:55 Overwhelm at MATS: Jason’s First Impressions 07:11 MATS: More Than a Truck Show—A Community Gathering 09:35 Friday Night Concert Lineup Unveiled 11:15 How to Score Free Concert Tickets at MATS 14:14 Launching the Truck Show National Championship Passport 16:24 Women in Trucking: Empowerment & Bennett’s Role 18:11 Tractor Pull Preview: Setting the Grand Finale 19:49 Celebrating Ryan DeBro: Champion Tractor Puller 22:05 Star Stripes & White Lines: Growing the November Show 23:05 Track Laps for Reese’s Cross America Charity 24:16 Ball Drop Fundraiser: Huey Helicopter & Prize Details 25:26 Star Stripes & White Lines Invitation: All Are Welcome 26:12 Swag Swipers: Podcast Humorous Moment & People Watching 26:54 Closing: How to Connect and Subscribe

    27 min

  2. MAR 17

    Bennett Presents: Seth Millican on Trucking Challenges, Solutions, and the Future of Georgia’s Carriers (Part 2)

    Ready to discover what’s driving the future of trucking in Georgia? Buckle up for Part 2 of our exclusive interview with Seth Millican, Executive Director of the Georgia Trucking Association, as he joins hosts Caitlyn Folks and Lee Gentry for an insightful, boots-on-the-ground look at the challenges and innovations shaping the transportation industry today. In this episode, you’ll get the inside track on Georgia’s pro-business climate and how state and federal initiatives are paving the way for safer, more profitable operations for carriers and drivers alike. From the ongoing battle over truck parking shortages—and what $200 million in new funding could mean—to the bold strategies propelling workforce development and legislative advocacy, this conversation offers practical takeaways for industry pros and newcomers alike. You’ll hear Seth break down not only the urgent needs around secure truck parking and female driver safety, but also how the association is reimagining its events, training, and partnerships to create a stronger, more connected community (spoiler: there’s more to their truck driving championships than you might think!). Plus, get an insider’s view on recent tort reform wins, the push for a unified business coalition, and how getting politically engaged is vital to protecting trucking’s future. Whether you’re a carrier owner, a driver, or simply fascinated by the logistics that keep our country moving, this episode is packed with actionable insights, inspiration, and a few laughs along the way. Don’t miss out—subscribe now for more candid conversations and expert perspectives on the road ahead for transportation and trucking! CHAPTERS: 00:22 Pro-Business Administration’s Impact on Trucking 01:46 Federal Funding and Georgia Truck Parking Challenges 03:43 Female Drivers and Safety in Truck Parking 04:52 Dangerous Parking Scenarios Due to Regulation 06:12 Preparing for the Next Convention & Industry Priorities 08:55 Workforce Development: Retaining Quality Drivers 09:31 Trucking’s Political Voice and Recent Legislative Wins 10:39 One-Stop Shop for Training and Carrier Support 13:21 Fighting Back Against Lawsuit Culture in Trucking 16:11 The Heart of Georgia Trucking: Community & People 19:02 The Nation’s Largest Truck Driving Championship 21:33 Seth’s Message: Get Plugged In to Your Association

    24 min

  3. MAR 9

    Transportation Nation Presents: Seth Millican on Georgia Trucking’s Future, Challenges & Solutions (Part 1)

    What will it take to keep Georgia the #1 state for business—and how does trucking drive that success? In this insightful episode of Transportation Nation, hosts Caitlyn Folks and Lee Gentry sit down with Seth Millican, President & CEO of the Georgia Motor Trucking Association (GMTA), for an unfiltered look at the challenges and future of Georgia’s trucking industry. With nearly a century of history, the GMTA plays a crucial role in advocating for the 350,000+ Georgians tied to trucking. Discover how rapid population growth, booming freight projections, and expanding ports are creating unprecedented opportunities—as well as unique pressures—on Georgia’s carriers. You’ll hear Seth Millican unpack the realities of rising insurance costs, a looming driver shortage, and the ways technology and regulatory shifts are reshaping the industry. The episode delves into image challenges for trucking, proactive solutions for maintaining safety on the roads, and the escalating sophistication of cargo theft. Don’t miss Seth Millican’s behind-the-scenes perspective on: How Georgia’s new tort reform laws are changing the game for trucking companiesThe real impact of English language proficiency and immigration status regulations on hiring and capacityThe vital role of technical colleges in building the next generation of logistics professionalsWhether you’re in the industry or just fascinated by the backbone of Georgia’s economy, this episode offers an engaging, honest look at what it takes to keep freight—and the state—moving forward. Subscribe for more conversations like this and stay ahead in the world of transportation! CHAPTERS: 00:00 Pro-Business Administration Brings Regulatory Stability 01:31 GMTA’s Mission: Serving Georgia’s Trucking Industry 04:36 Georgia’s Explosive Growth & Freight Forecasts 06:59 Top Industry Challenges from Strategic Planning Survey 10:10 Tackling Trucking’s Image Problem & Public Perception 12:07 Cleaning Out Rogue Actors: The COBRA Task Force 14:11 Legislative Fixes for Non-Citizen CDL Issues 15:52 Guarding Against Legal Risks from New Laws 18:01 The Looming Workforce Cliff in Trucking 20:09 Technical Colleges & Georgia’s New Training Center 22:15 Upcoming Regulatory & Safety Issues for 2026 24:37 Georgia’s “Evergreen Battle” Over Tort Reform 25:37 Digital Cargo Theft: Rising Sophistication & New Threats

    27 min

  4. MAR 3

    Bennett Presents: Faith, Family & the Making of Masterbuilt—A Legacy of Patriotism and Purpose With the McLemore Boys

    What if building a business could also build your faith, your family legacy, and inspire a movement of patriotism? In this heartfelt and energizing episode, the McLemore Boys of Masterbuilt and the Bennett family of Bennett Transportation & Logistics sit down at Atlanta Motor Speedway during the Bennett 250 to uncover the soul of true family businesses. Hosts John Boy and Lee Gentry are joined by their parents, Big John and Lynette Matis, second-generation leaders who have carried forward more than just a company name—they’ve fueled generational values of faith, hard work, and service. This episode takes you behind the scenes of two iconic family-run enterprises founded in the 1970s, revealing how moments of prayer, bold risks, and unwavering patriotic values turned small dreams into national brands. Big John shares the powerful story of how Masterbuilt got its name, born from a roadside moment with God, and how faith-based leadership shaped the company’s growth. Meanwhile, Lynette Matis reflects on her journey from a 10-year-old helping out after school to watching Bennett grow from a handful of trucks to thousands, all while holding tight to their Christian roots. Key highlights you’ll enjoy in this episode: An emotional dedication to the late “Pawpaw”—the McLemore patriarch—reminding us why purpose and perseverance matter most.Real talk on what sacrifice looks like in a family business, and why saying “yes” to new adventures often means balancing love, priorities, and legacy.Heartwarming accounts of how Bible studies, prayer teams, and patriotic service shape company culture, unite teams, and draw talent who share their values.Whether you’re a fan of inspirational business stories, faith-driven leadership, or American family traditions, this episode will uplift you. Subscribe for more conversations like this, and don’t forget: from our table to yours, God bless. -------------- CHAPTERS:  00:00 The Prayer That Named Masterbuilt 02:12 Tribute to Pawpaw: Loss and Legacy 04:12 Philippians 4:13—Faith Through Grief 08:16 How Faith Shaped Masterbuilt’s Journey 10:32 Writing Core Values—“The 5 Fs” 12:44 Employees Embracing Faith at Work 14:57 Prayer Before Every Race: Faith at the Track 17:29 Bennett’s Growth: From 15 Trucks to 4,000 Drivers 19:56 No Choice But Family—Growing Up Working 22:46 From Backyard Sales to Global Brand 28:00 Honest Talk: Family Sacrifice Behind Success 30:23 Patriotism in Action: Wreaths Across America 32:04 Pawpaw: Hero of the Week Tribute 32:49 Honoring the Chief of Police—Stony’s Story 34:41 Prayers for Good Weather and Final Thoughts

    36 min

  5. FEB 23

    Bennett Presents: Women in the Driver’s Seat with Alicia Echols

    Step into the driver’s seat of change with this empowering episode of “Transportation Nation”—where women aren’t just along for the ride, they’re leading the way! This week, hosts Lee Gentry and Caitlyn Folks sit down with Alicia Echols, Director of Safety and Compliance for Bennett Heavy and Specialized, and driving force behind the Women in the Driver’s Seat program. Together, they unpack how Bennett’s commitment to diversity and advocacy is creating a more inclusive, supportive, and safe environment for women across the trucking industry. You’ll hear firsthand what inspired the Women in the Driver’s Seat initiative, discover how Alicia and her team are breaking down barriers—from fighting for something as fundamental as safe restroom access to tackling the nationwide truck parking shortage—and learn how this dedicated community of over 430 female drivers supports each other on and off the road. Key highlights include: The powerful story behind advocating for the Trucker Bathroom Access Act and why basic dignity issues matter for everyone on the road.A look inside the mentor-mentee program, and how Bennett’s women are using their experience to uplift the next generation of drivers.An inspiring discussion about safety—why it’s a top priority and how trust, community, and legislative action all play a role in supporting women behind the wheel.Whether you’re a seasoned driver, considering a career in trucking, or simply want an insider’s view on how women are transforming an essential industry, this episode offers practical insights, heartfelt stories, and a call to action for allies and advocates alike. Ready to be inspired by women who are moving America forward? Hit subscribe and never miss a conversation that puts drivers—and especially women—in the seat of progress. CHAPTERS:  00:00 430 Female Drivers: Building a Supportive Community 01:58 Walking the Halls of Congress for Women in Trucking 03:17 The Trucker Bathroom Access Act: Dignity and Health 04:46 Truck Parking Crisis and Women's Safety 07:27 Breaking Barriers: Making Trucking Safer for Women 11:02 Launching Women in the Driver’s Seat Advisory Board 13:12 430 Female Drivers: Everyone Shares Their Story 14:00 Mentor Program & Health Initiatives for Women Drivers 16:00 National Recognition: Women in Trucking Award Nominations 18:10 Women in Trucking at the Louisville MATS Show 20:22 Driven By Faith: The Role of Spirituality in Trucking 22:05 Invitation: Why Bennett Is “Home” for Female Drivers 23:54 Celebrating Women Drivers of Excellence 24:40 Final Reflections: Advocacy and Women’s Impact in Trucking

    26 min

  6. FEB 9

    Inside the 2026 NASCAR Season with Austin Hill

    You can’t write the script any better—sometimes racing truly feels like fate. In this episode of Transportation Nation, buckle up for an exclusive interview with NASCAR star Austin Hill as he prepares for the high-octane 2026 season with the #21 Bennett Chevrolet. Hosted by Bennett’s Vice President Lynette Mathis, this conversation gives listeners a front-row seat to the action, triumphs, and teamwork behind one of NASCAR's most exciting drivers. Discover the inside story of Austin Hill's electrifying 100th win for RCR at Martinsville—a moment so astonishing, even his wife barely believed it. The episode uncovers Hill’s championship mindset, training regimen, and preparation for legendary tracks like Daytona and Atlanta. Hear about the challenges and rewards of working with a new pit crew, how Hill draws strength from hometown support, and why Atlanta holds a special place in his racing heart. Listeners will also gain powerful insights into the deep partnership between Bennett and the Richard Childress Racing team. Austin Hill and Lynette Mathis discuss shared values, the importance of family and patriotism, and the vital role that Bennett’s truck drivers play in keeping the country rolling. Key highlights include: The thrilling breakdown of a race-day strategy that led to RCR’s monumental 100th Xfinity Series win.A candid look at physical and mental preparation techniques for racing at speeds rivaling jet engines.How family, teamwork, and community support create winning moments—on and off the track.Whether you’re a NASCAR fanatic, a logistics professional, or simply love stories of drive and determination, this episode is packed with inspiration and practical wisdom. Subscribe for more conversations like this—and don’t miss our upcoming episodes as we move together toward an exciting season of racing and innovation. CHAPTERS:  00:00 You Can't Script Atlanta Wins: Pure Team Effort 02:30 Martinsville Miracle: Securing RCR’s 100th Xfinity Win 06:13 Bennett Chevrolet Car Featured in RCR Museum 09:21 Prepping for Daytona: Inside Racing Endurance Training 13:27 New Pit Crew Dynamics for 2026 Season 16:32 Atlanta Wins and Bennett Entitlement Sponsor Moments 18:27 Secrets to Atlanta Success: Communication & Strategy 25:03 Racing Pressure & Atlanta Swagger: Family and Team Impact 27:26 Austin Hill on Bennett Partnership: Shared Values & Family 31:32 Austin Hill’s Truck Driving Adventures 33:39 2026 Changes: NASCAR O'Reilly Series, Chase Format 39:36 Key Lesson: Consistency Beats Wins in New Points System 40:15 Austin Hill’s Message to Truck Drivers—America’s Unsung Heroes 42:29 Closing: Daytona Kickoff & Atlanta Homecoming

    43 min

  7. FEB 9

    Shane & Shane’s Morning Devotional: How Singing God’s Word Changes Lives

    Start your day inspired—discover the incredible story behind one of the most uplifting morning devotionals in America! In this episode of Transportation Nation, hosts Caitlyn Folks and Lee Gentry welcome acclaimed Christian music duo Shane Bernard and Shane Everett, better known as Shane & Shane. From humble beginnings at Texas A&M University to leading hundreds of thousands in daily worship, Shane & Shane share how faith, music, and community can transform lives—one song at a time. Tune in as the Shanes reveal how their personal journeys from unexpected conversions to full-time ministry paved the way for their innovative singing devotional app. You'll hear moving testimonies of how singing scripture has enriched their walk with Christ, and how this powerful practice is changing hearts nationwide—including folks who never thought singing was "their thing." Key moments include: The origin story of Shane & Shane: How a borrowed guitar and a night in a bar turned into decades of ministry.Behind-the-scenes of their daily singing devotional, with over 240,000 participants tuning in across the country.Exciting news about their brand-new hymns album—plus insights into why hymns resonate across generations.Whether you’re on the road or at home, find out how you can join this free devotional community (just text “sing” to 79316!) and experience spiritual encouragement firsthand.Subscribe for more inspiring conversations that fuel your faith and enrich your workday! CHAPTERS: 00:00 Shane & Shane Commit to 30 Days of Devotion 01:38 Meeting at Texas A&M: An Unlikely Beginning 02:07 Shane Bernard’s Life Transformed by Singing the Gospel 03:01 Shane Everett’s Bar Conversion: Lights On in the Heart 05:10 The Power of Undeserved Grace and Redemption 06:13 Overcoming Struggles When Called into Ministry 08:07 Why Singing Devotionals Create Deeper Intimacy With God 09:45 Stories of Listeners Encountering God Through Song 10:31 Daily Devotional Reaches 240,000+ Users Nationwide 13:39 How to Sign Up for Free Daily Singing Devotionals 14:51 Personal Testimonials: Devotionals Transform Morning Routines

    15 min

  8. JAN 26

    Bennett Presents: Trucking Policy, Safety, and Immigration Trends with David Heller (Part 2)

    Are your roads—and trucking regulations—ready for the future? Discover what's really happening behind the scenes as the trucking industry faces its biggest changes in years. In this riveting episode of Transportation Nation, Senior Vice President of Safety and Government Affairs at the Truckload Carriers Association, David Heller, joins Bennett’s own Caitlyn Folks and Lee Gentry for an urgent conversation about upcoming challenges, breakthroughs, and misconceptions in trucking today. As the expiration of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act draws near, David Heller breaks down what Washington’s looming legislative decisions mean for truckers, carriers, and the motoring public. You’ll get an inside look at: Why highway infrastructure funding is in jeopardy—and what it really costs to keep trucks and roads safeWhat most policymakers still don’t understand about trucking compliance, technology, and regulationHow leading carriers like Bennett are raising the bar in safety, advocacy, and driver trainingDon’t miss David Heller’s illuminating thoughts on the impact of new tech, the truth behind driver safety, and the real role of government in shaping industry standards. Plus, hear heartfelt stories highlighting the everyday heroism of America’s professional truck drivers—true “Highway Angels” whose acts of service rarely make the headlines. Whether you’re a trucking professional, policymaker, driver, or just want to know more about what keeps America moving, this episode is packed with insights, practical advice, and an inspiring look into the road ahead. Subscribe for more conversations like this—where we spotlight the people, purpose, and progress driving transportation forward. CHAPTERS:  00:00 Professional Truck Drivers: Safest on the Road 01:01 Highway Trust Fund Challenges Explained 03:27 Funding Truck Parking and Infrastructure 04:01 Electric Vehicles and Fair Road Funding 05:18 Time to Eliminate Outdated Excise Tax 06:35 Policymakers Misunderstand the Trucking Industry 08:10 Why Trucking Stories Matter in Washington 10:03 Debunking Truck Driver Misconceptions 12:18 Technology: Assist, Not Replace Drivers 13:34 ELDs—From Controversy to Acceptance 14:37 Protecting Both Drivers and Motoring Public 16:03 Show Up: How Great Carriers Stay Prepared 18:10 Fast-Tracking Regulations & Optimism for Trucking 20:22 Raising the Bar: Bennett’s Safety Culture 21:33 Communicate, Communicate: Regulators and Unintended Consequences 23:33 The Highway Angel Program: Unsung Trucking Heroes LINKS: Truckload Carriers Association (TCA) https://www.truckload.org/ Highway Angel Program (TCA) https://www.truckload.org/highway-angel/ Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/house-bill/3684 Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) https://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/ Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs) https://eld.fmcsa.dot.gov/List AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety https://aaafoundation.org/

    27 min
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About

Transportation Nation is brought to you by the Bennett Family of Companies and discusses all things in the transportation and logistics industry. 

Information

  • Creator
    Bennett Family of Companies
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    16
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Transportation Nation
  • Show Website
    Transportation Nation

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