The Freight Coach Podcast

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!

1371. #TFCP - Legacy vs. Innovation: The Future of the Family-Owned Fleet! 01/22/2026

1371. #TFCP - Legacy vs. Innovation: The Future of the Family-Owned Fleet! Today’s episode with John Pemberton from Pemberton Truck Lines is all about creating staying power in the trucking industry through strong company culture, uncompromising standards, and leadership accountability! Stay tuned as we dive into why building long-term customer relationships beats short-term rate chasing, how fleet standardization and preventive maintenance control costs and reduce breakdowns, and why fuel management, driver training, and outward-facing cameras are no longer optional for safety, liability reduction, and insurance control. John also shares how staying focused on what you can control - culture, maintenance, safety, and service - helps carriers navigate market volatility, regulatory pressure, and industry noise, turning challenges into growth opportunities through clarity, discipline, and long-term thinking! About John Pemberton John Pemberton is a second-generation leader at Pemberton Truck Lines, a family-owned trucking company that’s been around since 1982. He’s focused on building a strong, people-first operation while staying disciplined in a tough industry. Outside of trucking, John is big into endurance sports, which fits his belief that consistency, grit, and long-term thinking matter just as much in business as they do in training. Connect with John Website: LinkedIn: Facebook: 📊📉 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 🤝 Shoutout to my sponsors!👇 SPI Logistics | Revenova | NMFTA | Donate to support Stacy and her family: 🚀🔥 To sign up for my Newsletter, go to , get in touch with me through the social media channels below, and subscribe to my YouTube Channel!👇 ▶️ 📷 🕊️ 💼 /episode/index/show/coffeewiththefreightcoach/id/39829715

1370. #TFCP - SCAC Code Shakeup: The New Rules for Non-Class 8 Fleets! 01/21/2026

1370. #TFCP - SCAC Code Shakeup: The New Rules for Non-Class 8 Fleets! What happens if you don’t verify your SCAC? Is this the beginning of the end for freight fraud in non-Class 8 carriers? Joe Ohr and Holly Taylor are back on the show to discuss the launch of SCAC Verify on February 26, 2026, NMFTA’s new mandatory identity and address verification program designed to close a major security gap impacting sprinters, box trucks, hotshots, and other non-Class 8 carriers! We talk about how the fast 1–3 minute verification process works using government ID, biometric selfie matching, and DMV checks across 42 states, why failure to comply could mean losing your SCAC code renewal, and how verified carriers gain a significant competitive edge with shippers, brokers, and insurers. We also cover why this move is about fraud prevention, cargo theft reduction, and carrier trust, how it creates a clean accountability paper trail without storing personal data, and why this standard is likely a preview of future FMCSA and federal regulations. The bottom line of our conversation? This is a leveling of the playing field, a trust signal for legitimate carriers, and potentially a path to lower insurance premiums in a market that has been crushed by fraud! Visit to learn more! About Joe Ohr and Holly Taylor Joe Ohr has more than two decades of experience in technical operations, customer success management, customer support, and product support. Currently serving as the Chief Operating Officer for the National Motor Freight Traffic Association, Inc. (NMFTA)™, he plays a pivotal role in helping to advance the industry through digitization, classification, and cybersecurity. Prior to Ohr’s role at NMFTA, he served as in numerous engineering and operations positions at Qualcomm and Eaton, and most recently held the position of Senior Vice President of Operations/Customer Experience at Omnitracs. Throughout his career, Ohr has provided strategic guidance, vision, and a roadmap for addressing long-term customer challenges. He has played a key role in accelerating revenue growth and has collaborated closely with IT, product, and engineering teams to foster stronger partnerships with strategic customers and peers. Additionally, Ohr has overseen post sales customer support and service teams, as well as operations, managing a workforce of over 400 individuals. He holds multiple certifications such as CCNA from Cisco and MCSE from Microsoft and earned his Bachelor of Science in Education from the Ohio State University. Due to his contributions to the industry, he earned a spot in the Inner Circle in 2015 and 2018 from Qualcomm and Omnitracs. Holly Taylor is the Director of Product at the National Motor Freight Traffic Association, Inc. (NMFTA)™. In her current role, Holly leverages her diverse background to lead cross-functional teams, shape strategic product visions, as well as anticipate and deliver solutions that exceed market expectations. Her unique blend of technical expertise and leadership skills has driven product success and customer satisfaction, positioning her as a pivotal force in shaping the future of NMFTA’s products. With over 24 years of extensive experience in the software industry, Holly is a seasoned professional known for driving innovation and excellence across the product lifecycle. She began her career as a Technical Writer, where she honed a meticulous attention to detail and a deep understanding of user needs. Progressing to roles such as Documentation Manager and eventually Senior Product Manager, she built a reputation for transforming complex technical concepts into clear and intuitive applications. Holly earned her Bachelor of Arts in English from Penn State and a Masters of Arts in English from SNHU. She also received a Graduate Certificate in Publishing from the University of Denver. During her time at Oracle, Holly was a member of Oracle Women’s Leadership and a charter member of OWL at the Columbia, MD location. 📊📉 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 🤝 Shoutout to my sponsors!👇 SPI Logistics | Revenova | NMFTA | Donate to support Stacy and her family: 🚀🔥 To sign up for my Newsletter, go to , get in touch with me through the social media channels below, and subscribe to my YouTube Channel!👇 ▶️ 📷 🕊️ 💼 /episode/index/show/coffeewiththefreightcoach/id/39817205

1369. #TFCP - 5 Hard Truths: What I Wish I Knew Before Starting My Business! 01/20/2026

1368. #TFCP - The SCOTUS Showdown: Will Broker Liability Kill the 3PL?! 01/19/2026

1367. #TFCP - FMCSA vs. TQL: Is Broker Transparency Finally Coming to Freight?! 01/16/2026

1366. #TFCP - The $500B Overstock Fix: Turning Dead Freight into Cash! 01/15/2026

1366. #TFCP - The $500B Overstock Fix: Turning Dead Freight into Cash! Change how you look at unsold inventory in this episode with Amrita Bhasin of Sotira, joining the show to break down how poor inventory forecasting is crushing CPG brands, why nearly a quarter of all retail and e-commerce inventory never sells, and how excess inventory liquidation has become one of the biggest supply chain challenges today! We dive deeper into how Sotira is using AI to power a tech-driven reverse logistics marketplace that connects sellers, buyers, and donation partners while protecting brand equity, enforcing expiration and regional compliance laws, and improving recovery rates, how integrated freight optimization APIs help control transportation costs, why mismanaged forecasting leads to millions in deadstock, and how smarter liquidation strategies can reduce waste, unlock tax benefits, and keep inventory moving. About Amrita Bhasin Amrita Bhasin is the co-founder and CEO of Sotira, an award winning reverse logistics company that enables retailers, manufacturers and brands to discreetly monetize and donate unsold inventory. Amrita was named to the 2026 Forbes 30 under 30 list and the 2025 Mayfield AI List. Amrita has been invited to speak on national and international broadcast networks including CBS, Fox, ABC, Scripps, and CGTN and has been profiled in Forbes, TechCrunch, and Business Insider. She is regularly quoted as an expert by leading publications such as Reuters, Bloomberg, Wired, Fortune, CNBC, Glossy, Huffington Post, Sourcing Journal, Reader’s Digest, Modern Retail, AP, Yahoo Finance, and FreightWaves. Amrita has spoken about reverse logistics at leading conferences and trade shows such as TechCrunch Disrupt 2024, Home Delivery World 2025, HumanX 2025, ReTHINK Retail 2025 and Groceryshop 2025. Amrita was a delegate speaker at the 2025 One Young World Summit in Munich, Germany. She is an upcoming speaker at Manifest 2026 and Food Waste Summit 2026. Amrita was a 1st place winner at Shoptalk 2025 and 1st place winner at Reverse Logistics Conference and Expo 2025. Amrita has been recognized by the State of California and Stop Waste for contributions to reducing enterprise waste via reverse logistics automation. Connect with Amrita LinkedIn: Website: Email: 📊📉 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 🤝 Shoutout to my sponsors!👇 SPI Logistics | Revenova | NMFTA | Donate to support Stacy and her family: 🚀🔥 To sign up for my Newsletter, go to , get in touch with me through the social media channels below, and subscribe to my YouTube Channel!👇 ▶️ 📷 🕊️ 💼 /episode/index/show/coffeewiththefreightcoach/id/39750830

1365. #TFCP - Hidden Exclusions: Why Your Paper COI Doesn't Mean You're Covered! 01/14/2026

1365. #TFCP - Hidden Exclusions: Why Your Paper COI Doesn't Mean You're Covered! Are you relying on COIs and assuming you’re covered, or could one denied cargo claim put your brokerage at serious risk? Today, William (Billy) Worthington from Falvey Insurance Group explains why certificates of insurance can be misleading, how hidden exclusions and sublimits create massive exposure for freight brokers, and why understanding the actual insurance policy matters! We talk through the complex risk profile brokers carry when managing multiple carriers under one policy, why broker cargo liability insurance and all-risk cargo coverage are no longer optional, and how inflation has made standard $100,000 cargo limits dangerously outdated. Billy also covers how poorly aligned contracts can shift liability straight onto brokers, why fraud and double brokering losses are exploding, and how layered risk management, technology-driven insurance solutions, and higher coverage limits can protect your operation, your margins, and your customer relationships in today’s volatile freight market! About William (Billy) Worthington Billy leads Transportation & Logistics at Falvey Insurance Group. With more than 10 years at Falvey, William is known for his professionalism, responsiveness, and ability to deliver strategic, solutions-oriented support to brokers and partners. His leadership and collaborative approach help strengthen client relationships and reinforce Falvey’s reputation for excellence in the specialty insurance market. Connect with Billy Website: LinkedIn: 📊📉 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 🤝 Shoutout to my sponsors!👇 SPI Logistics | Revenova | NMFTA | Donate to support Stacy and her family: 🚀🔥 To sign up for my Newsletter, go to , get in touch with me through the social media channels below, and subscribe to my YouTube Channel!👇 ▶️ 📷 🕊️ 💼 /episode/index/show/coffeewiththefreightcoach/id/39733575

1364. #TFCP - Digital Identity Theft: The #1 Threat to Your Freight in 2026! 01/13/2026

1364. #TFCP - Digital Identity Theft: The #1 Threat to Your Freight in 2026! Reduce freight fraud without overcomplicating your operation in this episode with our returning guest, Kevin Hill from CarrierSource, explaining why strong carrier relationships are still the backbone of fraud prevention, service consistency, and long-term success in freight brokerage! We delve into how working with a select group of trusted carriers dramatically lowers fraud risk, why professional email domains and basic cybersecurity are no longer optional in modern logistics, and how human moderation on platforms like CarrierSource protects carrier reputations while increasing transparency across the industry. We also cover why shippers are flocking to reliable carrier data, how intent data is changing freight sales and prospecting, and the importance of daily pipeline discipline. From digital security to face-to-face industry events, this conversation is all about building trust, protecting revenue, and running a smarter, more resilient freight operation! About Kevin Hill Kevin has more than 10 years of experience in the freight industry, both as a sales executive and a media producer; his mission is to help freight sales professionals grow their business and reach their goals. Kevin is the owner of Brush Pass Research, a sales and marketing research firm that helps companies sell to freight brokerages across North America. He also hosts Put That Coffee Down, a popular freight sales show on FreightWavesTV, where he interviews guests and shares tips on how logistics providers can increase profits. Previously, Kevin founded CarrierLists, a carrier sourcing platform that was acquired by Highway in 2022. Connect with Kevin LinkedIn: Website: Email: 📊📉 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 🤝 Shoutout to my sponsors!👇 SPI Logistics | Revenova | NMFTA | Donate to support Stacy and her family: 🚀🔥 To sign up for my Newsletter, go to , get in touch with me through the social media channels below, and subscribe to my YouTube Channel!👇 ▶️ 📷 🕊️ 💼 /episode/index/show/coffeewiththefreightcoach/id/39720155

1363. #TFCP - The EPA 2027 Pre-Buy: Is Now the Time to Finance Your Next Truck? 01/12/2026

1363. #TFCP - The EPA 2027 Pre-Buy: Is Now the Time to Finance Your Next Truck? Is the freight market finally turning a corner, or are carriers in for more tough decisions ahead? James Currier from Finloc is back for another insightful conversation, covering why the freight market remains weak, how the worst job numbers since 2020 are slowing fleet expansion, and why economic uncertainty and high interest rates are forcing trucking companies to rethink equipment financing, capital spending, and operational strategy! We talk about the disconnect between Wall Street wins and Main Street trucking struggles, rising operating costs, why lenders are now laser-focused on stability, maintenance discipline, and financial transparency and why automation, smarter financial planning, and disciplined execution are the keys to surviving and winning in today’s freight economy, especially for small and mid-sized fleets trying to stay competitive in a volatile trucking market. To download the Trucking Resurgence action plan, go to . About James Currier James Currier is the Chief Revenue Officer at Finloc USA, where James leads the sales team across the country in a relentless pursuit for increased market share in the equipment finance field. After starting his professional career as a Business Analyst in the healthcare field, James came to realize that his passions were best suited to dealing with people and organizations aiming for growth. After a two year contract was completed with Fraser & Interior Health Authorities in British Columbia, a career change ensued and James has not looked back since. Combining the analytical fundamentals learned in healthcare and a natural gravitation towards people and business development, James has thrived in a sales career since 2012, leading, managing, and training dozens of people over the past several years. Subsequent to the completion of a >$400MM acquisition at his previous company, James made the jump to Finloc where he was first tasked with hiring and redeveloping the Ontario, Canada market. James was then assigned to manage the US division for Finloc as a player/coach, originating new asset-based financing opportunities and finding, attracting, and training new talent. James has worked in an exceptionally diverse range of roles since the age of 15, starting as a minor hockey league referee. His openness to new experience has allowed James to experience positions as a head of high-profile security, high-adventure whitewater rafter guide, Corporal in the Canadian Armed Forces Infantry Reserve, business analyst, VIP/Private security operative, personal support worker, guitar teacher, and sales leader. As a well-versed hobbyist who enjoys learning and new experiences, James enjoys coaching/playing/watching hockey, swimming, guitar, hunting, fly fishing, boating/canoeing, cycling, hiking, woodworking, motorcycling, reading, DIY projects, and evening walks with his wife, 2 boys, and golden retriever. Connect with James LinkedIn: Email: james.currier@finloc.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 🤝 Shoutout to my sponsors!👇 SPI Logistics | Revenova | NMFTA | Donate to support Stacy and her family: 🚀🔥 To sign up for my Newsletter, go to , get in touch with me through the social media channels below, and subscribe to my YouTube Channel!👇 ▶️ 📷 🕊️ 💼 /episode/index/show/coffeewiththefreightcoach/id/39701215

1362. #TFCP - The Resurgence Plan: 7 Pillars to Save the American Trucking Industry! 01/09/2026

1361. #TFCP - Inside Freight Fraud: How Scammers Infiltrate Brokerages & How to Stop It! 01/08/2026

1361. #TFCP - Inside Freight Fraud: How Scammers Infiltrate Brokerages & How to Stop It! Is freight fraud really just “part of doing business” now, or are we finally at a breaking point? And what happens when organized crime syndicates start treating the freight industry like a cash machine? Listen to John Cantera of Freight Fraud Task Force Inc. in this conversation sharing how freight fraud has evolved from basic double brokering into full-blown cargo theft fueled by international and domestic criminal networks, why broker apathy, cost-driven booking decisions, and inconsistent vetting are putting legitimate carriers at serious risk, and how rising insurance costs and market pressure are squeezing the wrong players out. John also explains how education, intelligence sharing, audits, and financial enforcement are becoming the industry’s best defense as FMCSA resources lag, the potential FMCSA reforms, the idea of universal carrier and CDL recertification, and why proactive fraud prevention isn’t optional anymore if brokers, carriers, and shippers want to survive the next market cycle and restore trust across the supply chain! About John Cantera, Jr. Managing Director and Fraud Prevention Consultant - Vigilant Transportation Services Co-Founder and Vice Chairman - Freight Fraud Task Force Inc. From the Task Force site (about to launch) - John is a 25-year veteran and leader in logistics and supply chain management. He prioritizes integrity, service before self, and excellence in all that he does, values instilled in him during his time as a U.S. Air Force Logistics Readiness Officer. Throughout his career, John has excelled in complex environments that require innovative thinking and the ability to operate outside the box. His experience spans various aspects of the domestic supply chain, including multi-site warehousing, port terminals, and fleet and broker operations. He gained the nickname "Double Broker Bounty Hunter" during his five-year battle against fraud. John is particularly skilled in investigations and risk management and serves as the face of the Freight Fraud Task Force, hosting their podcasts and webinars. Connect with John Website: / LinkedIn: 📊📉 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 🤝 Shoutout to my sponsors!👇 SPI Logistics | Revenova | NMFTA | Donate to support Stacy and her family: 🚀🔥 To sign up for my Newsletter, go to , get in touch with me through the social media channels below, and subscribe to my YouTube Channel!👇 ▶️ 📷 🕊️ 💼 /episode/index/show/coffeewiththefreightcoach/id/39665470

1360. #TFCP - Weather Shock or Market Shift? Where Are Margins Headed?! 01/07/2026

1360. #TFCP - Weather Shock or Market Shift? Where Are Margins Headed?! In this episode, we’ll hear what can happen when brokers aren’t financially prepared to weather market swings and how new regulations reshape the freight landscape with today’s returning guest, Ken Adamo from DAT Freight & Analytics! We break down the new FMCSA broker financial responsibility rule, why automatic authority revocation within seven days is a necessary step toward freight market stability, stronger broker compliance, and more reliable carrier payments, the current freight market conditions—rates are moving up, but volumes and gross margins are flat, putting real pressure on broker profitability heading into early 2026, and why transparent pricing, flexible 12-month contracts, and honest shipper conversations matter more than ever! About Ken Adamo Ken Adamo, Chief of Analytics and Vice President of Strategy and Business Development at DAT Freight & Analytics, leads strategy, customer engagement, and industry analysis. He played a key role in DAT’s acquisition of Trucker Tools, strengthening the company’s visibility solutions. A recognized expert in freight market trends, Adamo has helped customers navigate shifting conditions by translating complex data into practical insights. He has led key strategic initiatives, advanced predictive analytics, and serves as a trusted resource for industry analysts, customers, and journalists. Before DAT, he led pricing and decision science teams at FedEx, developing forecasting models to optimize decision-making and profitability. He was named a 2025 Pro to Know (Rising Stars category) by Supply & Demand Chain Executive and has been quoted in the Wall Street Journal and trade publications. Ken holds a bachelor's degree in Finance from the University of Akron and an MBA from The Ohio State University. Connect with Ken Website: LinkedIn: / 📊📉 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 🤝 Shoutout to my sponsors!👇 SPI Logistics | Revenova | NMFTA | Donate to support Stacy and her family: 🚀🔥 To sign up for my Newsletter, go to , get in touch with me through the social media channels below, and subscribe to my YouTube Channel!👇 ▶️ 📷 🕊️ 💼 /episode/index/show/coffeewiththefreightcoach/id/39637895

1359. #TFCP - Freight Market Reality: Capacity, Rates, and Spot Market Tips! 01/06/2026

1358. #TFCP - Stop Punishing the Good Guys: A Tax Credit Trucking Needs Now! 01/05/2026

1357. #TFCP - How to Start Your Health Journey When You Don’t Know Where to Begin! 01/02/2026

1357. #TFCP - How to Start Your Health Journey When You Don’t Know Where to Begin! Are you overcomplicating fitness before you even get started, or burning out chasing results that aren’t sustainable? In this episode, Robert Bain is back to explain what real, long-term fitness actually looks like—starting simple with daily movement and understanding that fitness is a personal, multi-year journey, not a 30-day transformation. We talk realistic training strategies that balance intensity and recovery, why hydration is non-negotiable for performance and muscle recovery, and how chasing social-media physiques sets most people up for frustration. Robert also shares how losing and keeping off 75 pounds came down to consistency, portion control, and habit-building—not extreme workouts or supplements—and why the mental benefits of fitness, like better focus, confidence, and productivity, often matter more than the physical results! About Robert Bain Robert Bain, more commonly known as "Bain", has been involved with the transportation and logistics industry for nearly 2 decades. He has worked in a variety of operations and sales roles, from seat level all the way to VP of operations. He has worked for Amazing organizations such as CRST, UberFreight, Shipwell, Quad, and currently consults with the team at GLCS. He resides in the Chicagoland area with his wife Nikki, 4 children and granddaughter. When not engaged with family, clients, or in thought leadership within the sector via public appearances, interviews, and podcasts, Bain is typically in the gym maintaining his title of "The Strongest Man in Logistics". He boasts personal bests in competition of a 1063 lb Squat, 610 lb bench, 705 lb deadlift, and 2300 lb total. Connect with Robert Website: LinkedIn: Instagram: Email: rbain@glcs.net 📊📉 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 🤝 Shoutout to my sponsors!👇 SPI Logistics | Revenova | NMFTA | Donate to support Stacy and her family: 🚀🔥 To sign up for my Newsletter, go to , get in touch with me through the social media channels below, and subscribe to my YouTube Channel!👇 ▶️ 📷 🕊️ 💼 /episode/index/show/coffeewiththefreightcoach/id/39596020

1356. #TFCP - Time Management for Daily Wins! 12/30/2025

1355. #TFCP - Learning to Live Without It: Rebuilding After Addiction 12/29/2025

1354. #TFCP - Digital Transformation in Freight: The Edge of Deploying AI and Automation 12/26/2025

1353. #TFCP - Build or Buy AI? When Custom Tech Beats Off-the-Shelf Software 12/23/2025

1353. #TFCP - Build or Buy AI? When Custom Tech Beats Off-the-Shelf Software Are you chasing AI because it sounds good, or because it actually solves a real problem in your freight brokerage? And are you protecting your data, your margins, and your relationships while you do it? Let’s hear the real cost of AI in transportation and why proprietary AI and workflow automation can be a smarter long-term play in this episode with Herbert Orellana of Avanza BPO & Nearshoring and Sterling Engelhard of Data Gurus Group. We discuss AI adoption in freight brokerage, data security, private AI models, why optimizing your internal processes has to come before automation if you want real ROI, nearshore AI development, how logistics-focused teams can help control costs and protect data ownership, and why 90% of brokerage work can be automated—but the human touch is still the competitive edge that builds trust with shippers and carriers! Herbert Orellana Co‑Founder and COO of Avanza began his career at GlobalTranz in Scottsdale, AZ, where he thrived in a fast‑paced, tech‑driven freight brokerage environment. At Avanza, Herbert has been pivotal in scaling operations in Honduras, replicating the high‑pressure, SLA‑driven culture of American 3PLs within a nearshore model. His focus is on strategy and client success, partnering with 3PLs and FreightTech companies to design and build high‑performing nearshore teams that drive growth and efficiency. Sterling Engelhard Seasoned technology leader with 15+ years of experience building and scaling engineering, data, and product teams across North America and LATAM. He is an expert in nearshore software delivery models, helping companies accelerate roadmaps, reduce costs, and improve quality through high-performing LATAM talent. Sterling has successfully scaled multiple software startups, shaping technical strategy, optimizing delivery operations, and leading digital transformation for enterprise clients. Connect with Herbert and Sterling Website: / LinkedIn: / 📊📉 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 🤝 Shoutout to my sponsors!👇 SPI Logistics | Revenova | NMFTA | Donate to support Stacy and her family: 🚀🔥 To sign up for my Newsletter, go to , get in touch with me through the social media channels below, and subscribe to my YouTube Channel!👇 ▶️ 📷 🕊️ 💼 /episode/index/show/coffeewiththefreightcoach/id/39517485

1352. #TFCP - Optimizing Intermodal Freight: Visibility, Automation, and Execution! 12/22/2025

1351. #TFCP - From M&A to Enforcement: Trucking’s 2026 Reality! 12/19/2025

1350. #TFCP - From Data to Dollars: Turning Freight Analytics into Profit 12/18/2025

1350. #TFCP - From Data to Dollars: Turning Freight Analytics into Profit In this episode with Vetra Technologies’ co-founders, Kylie Perales and Richard Shure, you’ll learn how empty miles kill your margins and how much revenue you leave on the table by chasing the wrong loads! Kylie and Richard tackles one of the biggest inefficiencies in trucking, deadhead miles, by using AI-driven route optimization and multi-leg load planning to help carriers cut 30-40% of empty truck miles and boost profitability, how Vetra aggregates loads from multiple load boards, ranks the best options based on truck specs and carrier preferences, and explains those choices so dispatchers and owner-operators can make faster, smarter decisions without replacing human negotiation. We also cover how reducing load search time from minutes to seconds directly increases top-line revenue, why personalized load recommendations matter in a low-margin freight market, and what’s coming next, including real-time load notifications and broker management tools designed to keep trucks moving and revenue consistent! Kylie Perales and Richard Shure - Co-Founders and Chief Executive Officer Kylie plays a vital role in driving Vetra Technologies innovative solutions, combining her expertise in business administration with a strategic, hands-on approach. Drawing from her education at Boston University's Questrom School of Business, she excels in risk analysis, marketing, and project management. Kylie's ability to thoroughly assess challenges in the trucking industry, develop effective solutions, and ensure the company remains adaptable and competitive. With a strong grasp of operations and strategy, she drives sustainable growth and positions Vetra to meet critical performance benchmarks. Richard plays a pivotal role in shaping Vetra Technologies vision and ensuring its execution, combining entrepreneurial leadership with a strategic, hands-on approach. Drawing from his education at Boston University, Richard excels in identifying opportunities, managing risks, and building strong partnerships to drive innovation and growth. With strengths in strategic planning, market analysis, and operational oversight, he addresses challenges and delivers measurable results. Focused on collaboration and adaptability, Richard positions Vetra as a forward-thinking leader in the industry. Connect with Kylie and Richard Website: Instagram: LinkedIn: 📊📉 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 🤝 Shoutout to my sponsors!👇 SPI Logistics | Revenova | NMFTA | Donate to support Stacy and her family: 🚀🔥 To sign up for my Newsletter, go to , get in touch with me through the social media channels below, and subscribe to my YouTube Channel!👇 ▶️ 📷 🕊️ 💼 /episode/index/show/coffeewiththefreightcoach/id/39453595

1349. #TFCP - Why Holiday Season Means Higher Freight Theft - And How to Fight It! 12/17/2025

1349. #TFCP - Why Holiday Season Means Higher Freight Theft - And How to Fight It! If you think your freight operation is exposed to organized theft or unknowingly carrying liability that could wipe out your business, you must listen to this episode with Michael Caney from HIGHWAY! Michael explains why freight theft has escalated into a national security issue, with organized, often foreign-led crime rings targeting U.S. supply chains, and why freight brokers are increasingly left holding the bag when loads go missing. We dig into how shipper contracts shift liability unfairly onto brokers, how undisclosed cargo values and fraudulent or “ghost” carriers magnify risk, why insurance agencies and factoring companies often enable the problem with little accountability, how post-2020 market behavior and “book it fast” culture have fueled freight fraud, and why extreme ownership, operational discipline, and transparent broker-shipper communication are no longer optional! About Michael Caney Michael Caney is the Chief Commercial Officer at Highway. He leads marketing, sales, sales engineering, customer success, and partnerships, drawing on a career that spans building and scaling both freight brokerages and supply chain technology companies. Before joining Highway, Michael held senior leadership roles across startups and established firms, guiding teams from early operations through sustained market leadership. His background as an operator gives him a grounded, execution-focused approach to strategy, team building, and category creation. Connect with Michael Website: Email: LinkedIn: 📊📉 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 🤝 Shoutout to my sponsors!👇 SPI Logistics | Revenova | NMFTA | Donate to support Stacy and her family: 🚀🔥 To sign up for my Newsletter, go to , get in touch with me through the social media channels below, and subscribe to my YouTube Channel!👇 ▶️ 📷 🕊️ 💼 /episode/index/show/coffeewiththefreightcoach/id/39417665

1348. #TFCP - Cybercrime in Trucking Is Evolving - What 2026 Means for All Parties! 12/16/2025

1348. #TFCP - Cybercrime in Trucking Is Evolving - What 2026 Means for All Parties! How exposed is your trucking operation to cybercrime right now, and are you relying too much on trust and automation? Listen to our guest today, Artie Crawford of NMFTA, breaking down the real cybersecurity threats facing transportation. The biggest takeaway is simple: no fleet, broker, or carrier is too small to be targeted! We discuss how AI-driven cyber fraud, business email compromise, and fake load schemes are hitting trucking companies hard, why small companies are often the most vulnerable, and how multi-person verification, cybersecurity training, and multi-factor authentication can dramatically reduce risk! 2026 NMFTA Cybersecurity Trends Report: About Artie Crawford Artie Crawford, CISSP, CISM, is the Director of Cybersecurity at the National Motor Freight Traffic Association, Inc. (NMFTA)™. Artie is a seasoned professional with extensive experience in cybersecurity strategy and deep technical expertise in addressing complex cybersecurity challenges. He possesses a thorough understanding of the tools, techniques, procedures, and attack vectors employed by cyber adversaries. Artie has a proven track record of providing strategic guidance, collaboration, and engineering support to a wide range of organizations, including state and local governments, educational institutions, intelligence agencies, transportation authorities, and the Department of Defense, all in support of their cybersecurity missions. Throughout his distinguished career, Artie has held pivotal roles at organizations such as the Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), Microsoft, MITRE, and others. His work has been centered on developing advanced techniques and tools for real-world operations. A 27-year veteran of the U.S. Marine Corps, Artie retired in 2011 as the Cybersecurity Chief of the Marine Corps, where he served as the Senior Technical Advisor to the CIO and Director of C4. 📊📉 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 🤝 Shoutout to my sponsors!👇 SPI Logistics | Revenova | NMFTA | Donate to support Stacy and her family: 🚀🔥 To sign up for my Newsletter, go to , get in touch with me through the social media channels below, and subscribe to my YouTube Channel!👇 ▶️ 📷 🕊️ 💼 /episode/index/show/coffeewiththefreightcoach/id/39417635

1347. #TFCP - Navigating Soft Freight, Rates & Risky Carriers: Broker Reality! 12/15/2025

1346. #TFCP - Freight Risk, Asset Recovery & Operational Efficiency - A Playbook 12/12/2025

1345. #TFCP - Why Cargo Theft Can Happen in 10 Minutes - and How To Stop It! 12/11/2025

1345. #TFCP - Why Cargo Theft Can Happen in 10 Minutes - and How To Stop It! Don’t miss out on this episode with Danny Ramon of Overhaul to know the real threat to your freight, what’s really happening online, and how fast cargo theft is evolving! Danny breaks down how cargo theft has become a full-blown, organized industry, blending cyber attacks and coordinated physical moves that let criminals walk away with entire shipments in minutes, why everyday consumer goods are now prime targets, how social media demand is reshaping black-market trends, and why tech alone won’t save you if you don’t have the human oversight to back it up! No one’s immune, so do simple operational changes, smarter vetting practices, nonstop vigilance carriers, brokers, and shippers need to stay ahead of this increasingly sophisticated threat, and keep supporting the show for more conversations like this! About Danny Ramon Danny Ramon has been working in Supply Chain Security for over 15 years and specializing in Supply Chain Intelligence for the last 13. Danny studies both cargo theft and any factor that can affect the flow of cargo through the supply chain to identify how variables might interfere with the flow of global logistics. In his role as Director of Intelligence and Response at Overhaul, Danny not only presents these findings to the security and logistics teams at the world's largest technology and pharmaceutical companies, but also leads the recovery and investigations team that works closely with law enforcement and private resources across the globe to recover stolen cargo and apprehend the criminals involved. Danny spreads awareness of cargo theft and promotes supply chain visibility as a subject matter expert. He is quoted or published in several leading industry publications, including Transport Topics, Supply Chain Brain, Fleet Owner, FreightWaves, and CCJDigital and he has presented for Inland Marine Underwriters Association (IMUA), the International Supply Chain Protection Organization (ISCPO), the Transportation and Logistics Council (TLC), Miami-Dade Police Department (MDPD), Ocean Carrier Equipment Management Association (OCEMA), National Motor Freight Traffic Association (NMFTA), and the Transported Asset Protection Association (TAPA). Connect with Danny Website: LinkedIn: 📊📉 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 🤝 Shoutout to my sponsors!👇 SPI Logistics | Revenova | NMFTA | Donate to support Stacy and her family: 🚀🔥 To sign up for my Newsletter, go to , get in touch with me through the social media channels below, and subscribe to my YouTube Channel!👇 ▶️ 📷 🕊️ 💼 /episode/index/show/coffeewiththefreightcoach/id/39370585

1344. #TFCP - 2026 Freight Crisis: Is The Homebuilding Slowdown The True Indicator?! 12/10/2025

1343. #TFCP - From Frustration to Freedom: Turning Freight Challenges Into Wins! 12/09/2025

1343. #TFCP - From Frustration to Freedom: Turning Freight Challenges Into Wins! How do you actually build a sustainable growth and lasting sales strategy in freight? Mike Mikulik from SPI Logistics is back and live to share how they’re driving real year-over-year growth by doubling down on existing customers, tightening up their cold-calling strategy, and investing heavily in tech that actually moves the needle! We discuss how respecting people’s time builds long-term trust, why agent recruitment needs to be transparent, fast, and rooted in support, and how SPI’s push into international air and ocean freight is helping agents deepen their book, navigate supply chain volatility, and stay competitive in a noisy market! 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 🤝 Shoutout to my sponsors!👇 SPI Logistics | Revenova | NMFTA | Donate to support Stacy and her family: 🚀🔥 To sign up for my Newsletter, go to , get in touch with me through the social media channels below, and subscribe to my YouTube Channel!👇 ▶️ 📷 🕊️ 💼 /episode/index/show/coffeewiththefreightcoach/id/39343850

1342. #TFCP - Speed + Focus = Freight Wins: How to Stay in Front Without Burning Out! 12/08/2025

1342. #TFCP - Speed + Focus = Freight Wins: How to Stay in Front Without Burning Out! Let’s see what AI adoption really looks like inside the freight industry in this episode with our returning guest, Dhruv Gupta from Drumkit! Dhruv shares the three types of customers in the AI space, why human oversight still drives decision quality, where the best automation opportunities actually live, and why setting realistic expectations matters. He also digs into rolling out AI without blowing up your workflows, why cultural buy-in matters just as much as the tech itself, product limitations, the future of conversational AI, and how AI will free brokers to focus on relationships and real decision-making. At the end of the day, AI isn’t about replacing people; it’s about removing the tedious stuff so you can operate faster, smarter, and with a whole lot more clarity. Keep tuning in to hear more! About Dhruv Gupta Dhruv is the CEO of Drumkit, co-founding it in 2022. He has been passionate about logistics for as long as he can remember. After graduating from Harvard with a degree in Computer Science and Government, he founded a Y Combinator backed startup focused on micro-mobility optimization. He then co-founded Megaphone, a non-profit that helped people vote in Milwaukee and Atlanta in the 2020 General Election. He was the first BD hire at Zoba, an early stage startup that optimizes fleet operations. Connect with Dhruv Website: Email: 📊📉 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 🤝 Shoutout to my sponsors!👇 SPI Logistics | Revenova | NMFTA | Donate to support Stacy and her family: 🚀🔥 To sign up for my Newsletter, go to , get in touch with me through the social media channels below, and subscribe to my YouTube Channel!👇 ▶️ 📷 🕊️ 💼 /episode/index/show/coffeewiththefreightcoach/id/39325930

The Freight Coach Podcast

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