The Oakley Podcast

Oakley Trucking
  • 4.9 (70)
  • CAREERS
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The Oakley Podcast is a trucking industry podcast that educates and empowers owner-operators by providing relevant industry, market, and company news in a digestible audio format.

  1. 4D AGO

    289: Forty Years on the Road: Why Getting Your CDL Is Still One of the Best Careers in America

    This week on the Oakley Podcast, Jeremy Kellett sits down with long-time Oakley owner-operator Tim Drake to talk about his life in trucking, from growing up in a trucking family and starting with a chauffeur’s license before CDLs, to running his own 379 Peterbilt with over 1.6 million miles. Tim shares how he transitioned from flatbed to Oakley, why he stuck with pneumatic tanks, and how careful maintenance and money management helped him pay off his truck and weather tough times. He opens up about the sacrifices of being away from family, the importance of saving for breakdowns and retirement, and the changes he’s seen in the industry, including regulations, technology, and distracted driving. Along the way, Tim talks about his passion for motocross at 57, the value of a CDL as a lifelong career option, and offers practical advice to younger drivers on working hard, living within their means, and taking care of their health and safety on the road. Key topics in today’s conversation include: We’ve Hit 100,000 YouTube Subscribers (0:25) Tim’s Background, Arkansas Roots, and Early Trucking Start (5:50) Growing Up in a Trucking Family and Riding with Mom and Dad (6:49) Getting Back into Competitive Motocross at 57 (8:19) Is Trucking a Hard Life? Sacrifices, Rewards, and Family Time (10:19) Why Tim Left Flatbedding and Chose Oakley Mileage Pay (13:27) Switching from End Dump to Pneumatic Tank Work (15:18) Advice to 27-Year-Old Tim on Saving, Hard Times, and Retirement (18:23) Mental Side of Trucking, Living in a Truck, and Staying Active (19:53) How Trucking Has Changed from “Back in the Day” (22:24) Adapting to New Rules, Regulations, and E-Logs (25:49) Why Tim Likes Pulling a Pneumatic Tank and the “Art” of Unloading (30:30) Distracted Driving, Cell Phones, and How to Really Fix the Problem (34:47) Why a CDL Is Still a Great Career Tool Anywhere You Live (39:04) Final Reflections on Trucking, Money, and Being Blessed by the Career (39:59) Oakley Trucking is a family-owned and operated trucking company headquartered in North Little Rock, Arkansas. For more information, check out our show website: podcast.bruceoakley.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    44 min

  2. APR 15

    288: Oakley’s Trucking Success at Port 33: Growing from 40 to 150 Trucks

    This week on the Oakley Podcast, Jeremy Kellett takes the Oakley Podcast on the road to Oakley’s Port 33 terminal in Catoosa, Oklahoma, to spotlight terminal manager Justin Jolly and operations manager Kyle Haney. They share the origin story of the Oklahoma terminal, from working out of an RV on a dusty gravel lot to running about 150 trucks today, while explaining how the port’s barge, grain, fertilizer, and local industrial freight created a powerful home‑time‑friendly operation. Kyle walks through day‑to‑day dispatch realities (breakdowns, tires, planning, and tight coordination with North Little Rock and Reserve), and both men stress relationship‑based dispatch, face‑to‑face communication with drivers, and proactive communication with customers. Key takeaways: Oakley’s growth in Oklahoma has been steady and intentional, built on dependable service, clean and professional owner‑operators, integrated barge‑truck logistics, and a strong culture of transparency and trust with both drivers and customers. Don’t miss this episode!  Key topics in today’s conversation include: Introduction To Oakley Podcast and On-The-Road Setup At Port 33 (0:12) Why Jeremy Is At Port 33 and Goal To Highlight Oklahoma Team (3:29) Justin’s Background, Family, and Move To Catoosa Terminal (6:13) Kyle’s Journey From Little Rock To New Mexico and Then Oklahoma (9:22) Truck Count, Mix Of End Dumps and Hoppers, and Room To Grow (12:43) How Port 33 Freight Works With Grain, Fertilizer, and Local Hauls (15:58) Building Relationships With Drivers and Importance Of Face-To-Face Visits (19:25) Morning Dispatch Routine, Breakdowns, and Common Truck Issues (22:12) What Customers Expect From Oakley and On-Time Performance Standards (25:15) Reputation, Professional Owner-Operators, and Winning New Customers (28:50) Growth History Of Port 33 Terminal and Vision For Future Expansion (32:10) Oakley Trucking is a family-owned and operated trucking company headquartered in North Little Rock, Arkansas. For more information, check out our show website: podcast.bruceoakley.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    36 min

  3. APR 8

    287: From the Road to the Bank: How ATBS Helps Truckers Take Control of Their Finances

    This week on the Oakley Podcast, Jeremy Kellett sits down with Todd Amen, president of ATBS, to break down the 2026 trucking market, how recent tax law changes (including the Big, Beautiful Bill Act) impact owner operators, and what truck drivers should be doing right now in tax season. They cover extensions, quarterly estimated taxes, the power of the qualified business income deduction, and how per diem really works in simple, practical terms. Todd explains common, often-missed deductions specific to truckers, how the ATBS app helps track income, expenses, and per diem, and why maintenance reserves and smart money management separate profitable owner operators from those who struggle. The episode closes with guidance for drivers who are behind on taxes, free tools available from ATBS, and how Oakley owner operators compare financially to the broader industry. Key topics in today’s conversation include: Welcome to Today’s Episode with ATBS (0:42)   Episode Overview, Guests, Sponsors, and Bulk Loads Video Series (3:16)   Introducing Todd Amen and Current Trucking Market Outlook for 2026 (6:51)   Tax Season Strategy, Extensions, and Paying Quarterly Estimated Taxes (10:01)   Impact of Big Beautiful Bill Act on Truckers’ Taxes and Deductions (13:15)   Per Diem Rules for Truck Drivers and How to Track Days on the Road (17:03)   ATBS Mobile App Features for Capturing Receipts and Managing P and L (20:02)   What Separates Profitable Owner Operators from Those Who Struggle (23:19)   Maintenance Costs, Reserve Accounts, and Equipment Breakdowns (26:11)   Handling Back Taxes, Unfiled Returns, and Working with the IRS (29:30)   Free Owner Operator Tools on ATBS Website and Deduction Lists (32:19)   How Oakley Owner Operators Compare on Net Income and Performance (35:49)   Owner Operator Model as Win-Win for Carriers and Drivers (0:37:42) Oakley Trucking is a family-owned and operated trucking company headquartered in North Little Rock, Arkansas. For more information, check out our show website: podcast.bruceoakley.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    38 min

  4. APR 1

    286: Building Better Truck Stops: TravelCenters of America’s Plan to Serve Today’s Driver

    This week on the Oakley Podcast, Jeremy Kellett sits down with Louis Ule, Vice President of Sales at TravelCenters of America (TA Petro), to discuss the history and growth of TA since its founding in 1972, its merger with Petro, and the expansion to around 370 locations, including many franchises. They dive into what TA is known for among professional drivers, including large parking lots, amenities, and efforts to keep facilities clean and safe through technology like enhanced lighting, cameras, and live video monitoring. Louis addresses driver feedback on hot topics such as paid parking, showers, and the upcoming overhaul of the TruckSmart app and loyalty program. The conversation also covers TA’s community involvement (Truckers Against Trafficking, St. Christopher Fund, Women in Trucking), its NASCAR partnership, and the changing landscape of professional driving. Key takeaways are that TA is investing heavily in infrastructure, safety, technology, and loyalty improvements, and is actively seeking and acting on driver feedback to improve the on-the-road experience. Key topics in today’s conversation include: Welcome to Today’s Episode with Louis Ule (0:46) Sponsors, Owner-Operator Resources, and Fuel Surcharge Reassurance (3:24) Louis’ Background in Transportation and Family Life (6:20) History Of Travel Centers Of America and Founder Phil Saunders (9:20) What TA Petro Is Known for Among Professional Drivers (12:32) Sit-Down Restaurants, Healthy Options, and Changing Driver Needs (15:10) Safety Upgrades, Security Cameras, and LVT Live Monitoring Systems (18:47) TruckSmart App Overhaul and Upcoming Earnify-Powered Features (20:51) Paid Parking Explained, Free Parking Eligibility, and Loyalty Changes (22:56) Massive Parking Lots, More Fuel Lanes, and Maintenance Challenges (27:20)   Citizen Driver Program and Honoring Professional Drivers (30:47) Community Partnerships With Truckers Against Trafficking and Others (32:45) Future Of Truck Stops, Technology Investments, and Network Growth (33:55) Changing Driver Demographics and Challenges Finding New Drivers (39:21) 2026 Focus On Driver Experience and Invitation for Feedback (44:08) Oakley Trucking is a family-owned and operated trucking company headquartered in North Little Rock, Arkansas. For more information, check out our show website: podcast.bruceoakley.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    48 min

  5. MAR 25

    285: From the Bay to the Highway: Shop Talk with Central Arkansas Truck & Trailer

    This week on the Oakley Podcast, Jeremy Kellett sits down with David and Nathan Dunn and lead mechanic Travis Davis from Central Arkansas Truck & Trailer to talk about their partnership with Oakley, how new technology (including AI and the Full Bay customer portal) is changing truck repair, and the realities of running a small diesel shop in a dealership-driven world. They dig into common, preventable breakdowns like neglected air and cabin filters, dirty cooling systems, and inadequate oil change intervals, and explain practical checks drivers can do themselves, such as the “rag test,” draining air tanks, and inspecting for leaks and bearing issues. The conversation also covers realistic oil change intervals for hard-running Oakley equipment, DEF/DPF system maintenance and warning signs, the dangers of “dirty deletes,” and why using genuine diagnostic software matters. Listeners come away with concrete maintenance tips, what tools and supplies every first-time owner-operator should carry, and how using Central Arkansas Truck & Trailer’s new online portal can reduce downtime, improve communication, and build a trusted long-term relationship with a shop that understands their business. Key topics in today’s conversation include: Previewing Today’s Episode with Shannon and Mark (0:37) Introduction, Sponsors, and Central Arkansas Truck & Trailer Partnership (0:12)   Has the Podcast Really Driven More Business to the Shop? (3:25)   Small Business Challenges and How AI Is Used in the Shop (5:54)   Full Bay Software and Real-Time Repair Tracking for Drivers (6:51)   Driver Portal, Website, and How to Request Service Online (9:25)   Common Preventable Breakdowns: Air Filters, Cabin Filters, and AC Issues (13:29)   The “Rag Test” and Keeping Radiators / Charge Air Coolers Clean (15:25)   How Often Should You Change Oil for Hard-Running Oakley Trucks? (17:50)   New Discounted Oil Change Package for Oakley Drivers (21:05)   Simple Checks Drivers Can Do: Hubs, Leaks, Air Tanks, and Rear Ends (23:35)   DEF / DPF System Problems, Early Warning Signs, and “Dirty Deletes” (28:09)   Why Bad Deletes and Bootleg Software Cause Electrical Nightmares (30:21)   Software Updates, Dealer Pressure, and Industry Changes in Repair (32:00)   Late-Night Breakdown Story and Helping Drivers Like Family (37:43)   Tools Every First-Time Owner Operator Should Carry and Closing Thoughts (41:24) Oakley Trucking is a family-owned and operated trucking company headquartered in North Little Rock, Arkansas. For more information, check out our show website: podcast.bruceoakley.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    46 min

  6. MAR 18

    284: Trucking’s Turning Point: Cleaning Up the Industry

    This week on the Oakley Podcast, host Jeremy Kellett chats with Shannon Newton (Arkansas Trucking Association) and Mark Colson (Alabama Trucking Association) to unpack the federal and state crackdown on illegal CDL “mills,” non-domiciled CDLs, and English language proficiency enforcement. They explain how federal standards and state enforcement interact, why self-certified CDL training providers are being removed from the system, and how chameleon carriers abuse multiple DOT numbers to dodge safety rules and accountability. The conversation covers the Trucking Resurgence reform plan, the Safer Transport Act, rising enforcement against bad actors, and new state laws in Arkansas and Alabama. Key takeaways: the industry is aggressively moving to protect CDL integrity, remove unsafe carriers, support law enforcement with better tools, and elevate professional drivers and reputable carriers who do things the right way. Don’t miss this important episode!  Key topics in today’s conversation include: Previewing Today’s Episode with Shannon and Mark (0:37) Why the CDL Crackdown Matters and Guest Intros (4:09) Federal Versus State Roles in Trucking Regulation (7:14) Illegal CDL Schools, Non-Domiciled CDLs, and FMCSA Audits (10:18) How This Problem Grew Over Decades and Driver English Rules (13:23) Economic Cycles, Politics, and Why Enforcement Priorities Shift (16:31) Chameleon Carriers and Abusing Multiple DOT Numbers (19:02) Insurance Costs, Nuclear Verdicts, and Impact on Good Carriers (22:13) What Arkansas and Alabama Are Doing at the State Level (25:38) New State Laws, Working With ICE, and Roadside Realities (28:06) English Language Proficiency Enforcement and Out-of-Service Issues (31:11) Public Trust, Illicit Training Programs, and Trial Lawyer Risks (34:20) Role of Shippers, Brokers, and Insurers in Fixing the System (37:12) Raising Driver Pay and Professionalism as Standards Tighten (40:31) Appreciation for Professional Drivers and Positive Industry Image (43:37) Oakley Trucking is a family-owned and operated trucking company headquartered in North Little Rock, Arkansas. For more information, check out our show website: podcast.bruceoakley.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    47 min

  7. MAR 11

    283: Why Three Owner-Operators in ONE Family Chose Oakley Trucking

    Key topics in today’s conversation include: Welcome to Today’s Episode with the Hogans (0:36) Jerald’s Oakley Story and 30 Years in Trucking (3:35) Jerald and Meka’s Long Relationship and Marriage Background (7:27) How Meka Got Talked into Driving and Her Early Trucking Struggles (10:52) Buying Meka’s Truck, Covid Pricing, and the Business Plan for the Family (14:53) Jermari’s Career Search, Welding Job, and Decision to Get His CDL (18:38) Hot Shot Hauling, Learning Ownership, and Laying the Path to Oakley (22:12) Younger Drivers Getting into Trucking (26:25) Safety, Sharing the Road, and What the Public Needs to Know About Trucks (30:02) Relationships with Dispatchers and Oakley’s View of the Hogan Family (33:42) Future Plans, CDL Versus College, and Final Thoughts (37:46) Oakley Trucking is a family-owned and operated trucking company headquartered in North Little Rock, Arkansas. For more information, check out our show website: podcast.bruceoakley.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    42 min

  8. MAR 4

    282: From Hospital Bed to Healthy Trucker: John’s No-BS Story

    This week on the Oakley Podcast, host Jeremy Kellett chats with Oakley owner/operator John Burgess about his remarkable journey through trucking, health crises, and entrepreneurship. John talks about getting into trucking at 18, the ups and downs of being an owner-operator (including expensive breakdowns and a tornado-damaged home), and how a series of life-threatening health scares including blood clots, uncontrolled diabetes, and severe illness, forced him to completely reevaluate his lifestyle. John explains how switching to a carnivore/proper human diet, closely monitoring his blood work, and finding better medical guidance helped him lose about 100 pounds, reverse serious issues, and feel healthier at 62 than in his 40s. He also describes building Lizzy B’s Barbecue Rubs & Seasonings, a low- or no-sugar, keto/diabetic-friendly seasoning line inspired by his love of barbecue. Key takeaways: trucking can be financially and emotionally brutal without savings and support; health cannot be outsourced to doctors alone; diet and disciplined self-care can radically change outcomes; and even after near-death moments, it’s possible to rebuild your body, business, and marriage.  Key topics in today’s conversation include: Welcoming John to Today’s Episode (0:47) John’s Background, Family, and Early Trucking Career (1:36)   Hitting Rock Bottom and Finding Oakley Trucking (9:58)   Becoming an Owner Operator and the Harsh Financial Realities (13:22)   Major Breakdowns, Tornado Damage, and Insurance Struggles (13:39)   Life-Threatening Health Scares and Near-Death Blood Clot Story (18:33)   Discovering Carnivore Diet, Losing 100 Pounds, and Reversing Diabetes (30:49)   Creating Lizzy B’s Seasonings and Building a Side Business (34:25)   John’s Mission to Help Truckers Get Healthy and Improve Their Lives (50:48)   Closing Thoughts On Trucking, Health, and John’s Contact Info (55:57)   Oakley Trucking is a family-owned and operated trucking company headquartered in North Little Rock, Arkansas. For more information, check out our show website: podcast.bruceoakley.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    59 min
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4.9
out of 5
70 Ratings

About

The Oakley Podcast is a trucking industry podcast that educates and empowers owner-operators by providing relevant industry, market, and company news in a digestible audio format.

Information

  • Creator
    Oakley Trucking
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2026
  • Episodes
    308
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Show Website
    The Oakley Podcast

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