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. 1435. #TFCP - The Augmented Broker: Balancing AI Velocity with Human Intuition!

    15H AGO

    1435. #TFCP - The Augmented Broker: Balancing AI Velocity with Human Intuition!

    Find out how top logistics firms are navigating the massive wave of AI without losing their human edge in this episode with Zach Jecklin of Echo Global Logistics, discussing the real-world impact of artificial intelligence in transportation! Zach shares advice on how to integrate tech platforms during a merger without burning out your team and the Echo's tech strategy, explaining why the future of freight brokerage isn't about total automation, but rather a "tech at your fingertips, experts by your side" approach that prioritizes customer experience over head-count reduction. If you're curious about the longevity of SaaS models, the role of generative AI in logistics, or how to filter through the noise of over-hyped freight tech startups, this interview delivers the insights you need to stay advantageous in an increasingly digital marketplace!   About Zach Jecklin Zach has served as Chief Information Officer at Echo Global Logistics since December 2021. Since joining the company in June 2008, he has held multiple leadership roles across finance, strategy, and technology. Prior to becoming CIO, he served as SVP of Strategy, where he was instrumental in shaping Echo's long-term business roadmap and before that he held several positions in finance, including VP of Finance. As CIO, Mr. Jecklin leads the development and execution of Echo's technology vision, driving innovation across the company's proprietary platforms, including EchoAccelerator, EchoShip, and EchoDrive. His unique background in finance and strategic planning informs a cross-functional approach to solving complex challenges and delivering scalable solutions for Echo's shippers and carrier partners. Mr. Jecklin​ earned a bachelor's degree in finance from Northern Illinois University.   📊📉 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. 1434. #TFCP - The Liability Trap: Tariffs, Cargo Theft, and the C.H. Robinson Safety Ruling!

    1D AGO

    1434. #TFCP - The Liability Trap: Tariffs, Cargo Theft, and the C.H. Robinson Safety Ruling!

    Today, we're breaking down some massive industry news, including the Supreme Court's impact on Section 301 tariff refunds, which could put millions back into the pockets of US businesses, and a direct response to the recent CBS report targeting C.H. Robinson and the broader brokerage community regarding safety liability! As an industry, we have to stand firm on the fact that we rely on FMCSA data to determine carrier fitness, and it's time to stop the "safety police" narrative from overshadowing the professional standards we uphold every day!   Resources / References https://www.ttnews.com/articles/businesses-refunds-tariffs https://www.freightwaves.com/news/after-cbs-report-c-h-robinson-seeks-to-deflect-safety-responsibility-to-fmcsa   📊📉 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/

    35 min
  3. 1433. #TFCP - Execution Over Excuses: Drayage, Discipline, and Discipleship!

    2D AGO

    1433. #TFCP - Execution Over Excuses: Drayage, Discipline, and Discipleship!

    If you're wondering what it takes to trade an $80,000-a-year corporate career for the grit of the open road, listen to this episode with Eric Brown of JTP Transportation, as he shares his raw and unfiltered journey from selling security systems to building a powerhouse in the Philadelphia drayage market! Eric gets frank about the "invisible" hurdles of entrepreneurship, from emptying his 401(k) to navigating the high-stakes world of white-glove temperature-controlled logistics. We also dive deep into the importance of clean books, the reality of tax liens, and why having a "figure it out" mentality is non-negotiable if you want to survive the volatility of the freight industry. Whether you're an owner-operator looking to scale or a broker trying to understand the hustle behind the wheel, Eric's story of surrendering control to find true success is the wake-up call every transportation professional needs!   About Eric Brown Eric Brown is a supply chain leader, entrepreneur, and performance-driven thinker who built his career on one principle: execution over excuses. Starting with one truck in 1999, Eric grew his company into a multi-state operation servicing major ports from New York to Texas — helping transform the drayage industry in Philadelphia by shifting it from delays and excuses to speed, precision, and results. Eric is also a CEO, founder, associate pastor, motivational speaker, and MC who is passionate about people. He loves helping businesses and charities get started and thrive, bringing energy, clarity, and momentum wherever he goes. A husband to one wife, father of five, and grandfather of three, Eric's life is grounded in faith, family, and purpose. He speaks openly about his relationship with Jesus Christ — not religion, but real transformation — and challenges others to live authentically and grow in every area of life. With a passion for science, rockets, speed, and high performance, Eric brings a unique voice that blends faith, leadership, and execution.   Connect with Eric Website: https://www.jtptransportation.com/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ericbrownjtp/  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JtpTransportation  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jtptransportation   📊📉 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
  4. 1432. #TFCP - The Solvent Broker: Selling Financial Stability in a Shifting Market!

    5D AGO

    1432. #TFCP - The Solvent Broker: Selling Financial Stability in a Shifting Market!

    Welcome to Day 2 of the 2026 TIA Capital Ideas Conference, and today, we're joined by Mike Mikulik from SPI Logistics to talk about the absolute necessity of financial solvency and the power of long-term carrier relationships in this shifting market! We discuss why managing your cash flow and vetting your partners is more critical than ever, especially as we navigate the shift from a loose capacity market to one where service disruptions and cargo theft are real threats. We also dive into the agent model as a safeguard for business growth, the importance of niching down to where you're strongest, and why sincere, inquisitive networking beats a cold script every single time.  If you're ready to stop forcing market share and start building a book of business rooted in trust and operational excellence, this live episode on the freight cycle and professional development is exactly what you need to listen to!   About Mike Mikulik Mike Mikulik is the Senior Vice President and Chief Revenue Officer at SPI Logistics. He is a very personable and enthusiastic person who is a collaborator and thinks out of the box. Mike has a unique background in all sides of the transportation industry from trucking to international freight forwarding and special projects. With over 25 years' experience he credits his School of Hard Knocks for his success. You will find Mike easily engaging in conversation and his willingness to help and draw out the best in people. His positiveness is contagious and willingness to support his team grow personally and professionally. Mike is a collaborator and think out of the box guy. He has had tremendous success in strategically enhancing the customer experience which in turn has led to new opportunities and revenue growth. Mike lives and resides in Vancouver Canada where he has lived all his life.   📊📉 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
  5. 1431. #TFCP - The Pulse of the Freight Market: LIVE From TIA Day 1!

    6D AGO

    1431. #TFCP - The Pulse of the Freight Market: LIVE From TIA Day 1!

    Are you tired of the "manual tax" slowing down your brokerage, or are you looking for the ultimate edge in carrier vetting and real-time fraud detection?  Today, we're live from the TIA Capital Ideas Conference with Kary Jablonski from DAT Freight & Analytics to discuss how the integration of Trucker Tools into the DAT ecosystem is revolutionizing the industry.  We dive deep into the shift from "point solutions" to a unified, one-stop-shop platform that automates up to 95% of a broker's day, allowing you to focus on high-value communication rather than chasing updates.  Kary breaks down their proactive approach to exception management, the launch of proactive driver verification to combat double-brokering, and how the new "smart factoring" via OTR is adding an essential layer of financial security for carriers and brokers!   About Kary Jablonski Kary serves on the DAT Freight & Analytics Executive team as EVP and GM, Trucker Tools & Broker Growth. Kary is the former CEO of Trucker Tools, where she led the company to a successful exit. While taking on her new role at DAT, she continues to lead Trucker Tools, staying committed to the company's vision and growth. Prior to Trucker Tools, she advanced through operations, logistics, and strategic planning roles with Uber in the U.S. and internationally and worked as a consultant with Deloitte. She currently lives in Chicago and enjoys anything active, especially running, golf, and basketball.   📊📉 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/

    26 min
  6. 1430. #TFCP - 6 Years in the Trenches: 6 Hard Truths of Building from Scratch!

    APR 15

    1430. #TFCP - 6 Years in the Trenches: 6 Hard Truths of Building from Scratch!

    Today, I'm getting real about the harsh truths of entrepreneurship as I hit my six-year milestone of being self-employed and the importance of building a consistent system of productivity! We'll break down why not all revenue is created equal and how targeting the right ideal customer profile (ICP) is the secret to scaling your freight brokerage without burning out. From mastering time management and shortening fluff-filled meetings to protecting your self-worth from the volatility of the P&L, our discussion today will be your straightforward guide to navigate the "wasteland" between a big idea and true execution!   📊📉 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
  7. 1429. #TFCP - The Digital Gate: Eliminating Facility Inefficiency and Detention!

    APR 14

    1429. #TFCP - The Digital Gate: Eliminating Facility Inefficiency and Detention!

    Are high detention fees and yard inefficiencies eating into your profit margins, or are you ready to see how cutting-edge tech is revolutionizing the freight game? Renaissant's CEO, Tom Dean, joins the show to talk about the "digital clipboard" revolution that's fixing the massive communication gap between TMS and WMS at the terminal gate! We discuss how AI-driven verification is tackling the skyrocketing rates of double-brokering and identity fraud, while simple automation is preventing costly mistakes, such as picking up the wrong trailer in a drop-pool.  From industrial shipping to the potential for fractional drop yards, this episode is all about leveraging data to protect your assets and keep your business moving faster and smarter than the competition, so keep tuning in!   About Tom Dean Tom Dean is the Founder and CEO of Renaissant, an AI-native logistics platform designed to bring digital control to the physical realities of freight movement. Renaissant's platform delivers complete yard control—from scheduling to gate access, dock execution, and yard management—helping logistics operators improve security, productivity, compliance, and safety. Before founding Renaissant, Tom spent more than two decades at the intersection of analytics, markets, and operations. He served as Head of Global Commodity Trading for a $15 billion hedge fund, where he built teams combining fundamental analysis and quantitative research to optimize large trading portfolios. Earlier, he held leadership roles in electricity and natural gas trading at a Fortune 100 energy company. Tom holds a B.S. in Accounting and Finance from Kansas State University and an MBA in Analytic Finance from the University of Chicago Booth School of Business.   📊📉 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
  8. 1428. #TFCP - The Media War: How Truckers are Reclaiming the Industry Narrative!

    APR 13

    1428. #TFCP - The Media War: How Truckers are Reclaiming the Industry Narrative!

    In this episode, find out why you have to stop quoting based on broad social media headlines and start having honest, week-by-week conversations with your customers to deliver stability in a tightening market! We're breaking down an anomaly on the Minneapolis to Louisville van lane, where rates are actually trending downward despite rising fuel costs and the geopolitical ripples from recent Middle East trade tensions. We're also celebrating the fact that actual trucking professionals are finally taking control of the mainstream media narrative, moving past corporate fluff to highlight the grit and reality of small fleet ownership. From the impact of international tariffs on freight margins to the federal crackdown on double-brokering cargo theft, we are covering the high-level insights you need to protect your book of business and stay ahead of the game!   Resources / References https://www.overdriveonline.com/channel-19/article/15821866/truckers-take-control-of-mainstream-media https://www.ttnews.com/articles/court-new-case-trump-tariffs https://www.overdriveonline.com/life/article/15821860/accused-doublebrokering-cargo-thief-charged-in-court   📊📉 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
4.8
out of 5
80 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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