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!

1396. #TFCP - From Zero to 7 Figures: The Freight Broker Sales Roadmap! 02/26/2026

1396. #TFCP - From Zero to 7 Figures: The Freight Broker Sales Roadmap! Are you chasing unstable freight lanes instead of building predictable revenue? Are your sales efforts consistent enough to survive any freight market cycle? Dive into this episode to learn more! In this episode, I break down the following: Lane stability — like the Fort Myers, Florida to Richmond, Virginia flatbed lane is a perfect example of how predictable pricing, strong carrier relationships, and reliable coverage create long-term success in freight brokerage and logistics operations. Real market insights on outbound Florida freight, why paying carriers fairly secures capacity, and how focusing on dependable lanes beats chasing cheap trucks every time. Freight broker sales strategy, including owning your local market, defining your ideal shipper profile, and committing to disciplined daily cold calling, follow-ups, and CRM-driven workflows that actually build pipeline momentum. At the end of the day, success in transportation and supply chain sales isn’t about market conditions — it’s about consistency, operational discipline, and building trust with both carriers and customers to create repeat business and sustainable freight brokerage growth. 📊📉 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 | DAT Freight & Analytics | 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/40241330

1395. #TFCP - Hiring for Grit, Not Resume: The Power of a Fresh Perspective! 02/25/2026

1394. #TFCP - The 2026 Freight Flip: Tariffs, Market Signals, and the Capacity Squeeze! 02/24/2026

1393. #TFCP - The Future of Logistics Education: Role-Based Mastery in 2026! 02/23/2026

1393. #TFCP - The Future of Logistics Education: Role-Based Mastery in 2026! Today, Jennifer Karpus-Romain from the Transportation Marketing & Sales Association (TMSA) joins the show for an inside look at how the TMSA ELEVATE Conference is reshaping transportation sales and marketing through five role-specific learning tracks focused on real-world case studies, measurable ROI, and practical networking that actually moves businesses forward! Jennifer and I also talk about why successful freight sales strategies now require a true multi-channel approach, combining cold outreach, digital content, AI-enabled efficiency, and strong human connection skills, to win in today’s tech-driven logistics landscape, along with how ongoing post-conference content delivery and continuous professional development are becoming essential for long-term growth in freight brokerage, supply chain management, and transportation marketing. Register for the TMSA ELEVATE Conference: About Jennifer Karpus-Romain Jennifer is the Executive Director of the Transportation Marketing & Sales Association (TMSA), where she leads strategy, programming, and community for sales and marketing professionals across the logistics industry. Known for connecting people and ideas that actually move the industry forward, Jen focuses on the intersection of revenue growth, brand, and leadership inside transportation and supply chain organizations. Jen works closely with logistics companies to align sales and marketing, strengthen messaging, and build communities that convert into real business relationships. She’s also the host of TMSA’s On the Move podcast and a frequent industry speaker on leadership, storytelling, and the future of go-to-market in freight. At her core, Jen believes this industry runs on relationships, and she’s made a career out of building rooms where the right people find each other. Connect with Jennifer Website: 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 | DAT Freight & Analytics | 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/40203560

1392. #TFCP - Scams & Sweeps: How the DOT is Cleaning Up the Freight Market! 02/20/2026

1391. #TFCP - Bridging the Gap: Carrier-Broker Synergy in a Tight Market! 02/19/2026

1390. #TFCP - The Power of Prediction: Navigating the 2026 Freight Cycle! 02/18/2026

1390. #TFCP - The Power of Prediction: Navigating the 2026 Freight Cycle! In this episode, David Abell of AM Transport Services shares why mindset, disciplined sales activity, and owning your customer relationships are the real drivers of success in freight brokerage, regardless of market conditions! We talk about committing to 20 cold calls a day for 90 days, refining your freight sales process before hiring, and using a CRM system to manage prospects, track buying windows, and build a consistent sales pipeline. Dave shares why CEOs must own key shipper relationships, ask direct questions to prevent customer churn, and focus on controllable fundamentals like sales outreach, operational discipline, and service execution. We also dive into leadership development through the Freight Leadership Lab with the Transportation Intermediaries Association, designed to build next-level freight broker leadership skills through live training and real-world application! About David Abell David Abell is the President and CEO of AM Transport Services, a 35-year-old freight brokerage headquartered in Olney, Illinois. With almost two decades of experience in transportation and logistics, David focuses on driving operational excellence, strategic growth, and innovative solutions for shippers across North America. He also serves on the Board of Directors of the Transportation Intermediaries Association (TIA), where he advocates for industry best practices, fraud prevention, and stronger collaboration across the supply chain. David is a veteran of Operation Iraqi Freedom and is passionate about leadership development, community impact, and building high-performing teams. 📊📉 Don’t miss out on the latest market trends by subscribing to your TOP Transportation Morning Show! 🌎 🎬🎯 #TheFreightCoach Morning Show is LIVE every weekday at 10:30 AM CST to break down transportation industry headlines! Mark your calendars! To Find Out More About My Freight Services Visit 🤝 Shoutout to my sponsors!👇 SPI Logistics | Revenova | NMFTA | DAT Freight & Analytics | 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/40155715

1389. #TFCP - Tech & Transformation: Mastering Change Management in Freight! 02/17/2026

1389. #TFCP - Tech & Transformation: Mastering Change Management in Freight! Today, we’ll hear Sarah Miller of Ally Logistics breaking down what actually drives successful freight technology adoption inside a modern brokerage! Sarah discusses why vendor selection must prioritize high uptime, responsive customer support, mandatory pilot programs before signing contracts, and smart automation strategy in logistics, focusing on back-office tasks like freight audit and bill pay to increase efficiency while protecting the human relationships that win freight. The bottom line of the episode? Lean brokerage operations powered by the right technology can cut costs and allow smaller teams to compete at scale. If you want practical insights on freight tech, brokerage automation, vendor evaluation, and building real competitive advantage, this one delivers! About Sarah Miller Sarah Miller is the Director of Business Solutions at Ally Logistics. In her time with Ally, she has supported the rapid growth of their tech stack from building out their new TMS Revenova, to agentic workflow automation with Sola. Alongside her role at Ally, she is also a member of the TIA technology committee. She is passionate about technology and the cultural shifts it takes to implement it. Connect with Sarah Website: 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 | DAT Freight & Analytics | 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/40142330

1388. #TFCP - The End of Cold Calling: How AI is Automating Freight Sales! 02/16/2026

1387. #TFCP - The Seasonal Pivot: Roses, Reefer, and Produce Season 2026! 02/13/2026

1387. #TFCP - The Seasonal Pivot: Roses, Reefer, and Produce Season 2026! Are floral freight rates the first warning sign of a tightening reefer market? Is Florida enforcement reshaping capacity faster than most carriers expected? Are you positioned for the Southeast produce surge before the peak season hits? Dean Croke of DAT Freight & Analytics is back to break down how Valentine’s Day floral demand funneled through Miami pushed outbound freight rates up, why immigration scale house enforcement is cutting reefer capacity, and how the upcoming produce season will impact national trucking rates, refrigerated freight trends, and contract negotiations. We also dig into DAT freight data showing national rates higher year over year despite soft volumes, explain how seasonal demand shifts, tender rejection rates, and regulatory changes are driving spot market opportunities, and talk honestly about enforcement challenges affecting minority drivers while emphasizing compliance, industry integrity, and long-term freight market stability as capacity tightens and the trucking industry moves toward a more predictable recovery through 2026 for carriers, brokers, and shippers who stay informed and adaptable! About Dean Croke Dean is the Prinicpal Analyst at DAT Freight & Analytics, the leader in market and pricing intelligence and operates the largest truckload freight marketplace in North America. He is a Global Supply Chain and Logistics Executive specializing in freight market analytics, multi-modal freight flows, thought leadership, and the application of business intelligence using digital technologies. Connect with Dean Website: LinkedIn: YouTube: DAT iQ Help Center: 📊📉 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 | DAT Freight & Analytics | 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/40101875

1386. #TFCP - COI Forensics: Spotting Fakes and Avoiding the Chameleon Carrier Trap! 02/12/2026

1386. #TFCP - COI Forensics: Spotting Fakes and Avoiding the Chameleon Carrier Trap! Are fraud rings quietly manipulating the trucking industry? Are brokers relying too much on outdated Certificate of Insurance? And what happens when stricter DOT enforcement reshapes how freight moves across the country? In this episode, Cameron Pechia of Valley Trucking Insurance explains how organized trucking fraud - from chameleon carriers and fake insurance documents to criminal syndicates influencing CDLs, financing, and compliance - is forcing brokers and carriers to tighten verification processes and rethink risk management across the supply chain! We talk about why Certificate of Insurance is a weak proof without direct verification, how upcoming DOT regulations and increased enforcement may trigger short-term spikes in freight fraud, and why brokers should implement 30-60 day insurance and credential re-verification cycles to protect loads. Cam also dives into how stronger regulatory standards, better insurance verification practices, and real collaboration with trusted providers can help ethical trucking companies thrive while improving market stability, reducing carrier failure rates, and strengthening overall supply chain security. About Cameron Pechia Cameron is the founder of Valley Trucking Insurance, a leading Trucking Insurance Agency based in Spokane, Washington. With a deep passion for the trucking industry and a commitment to excellence, Cameron has become a trusted figure in the field. Cameron also is the host of Get A Load Of This Trucking Podcast and brings a ton of value to the Trucking Industry. Cameron is also a dedicated husband and father to his two beautiful girls…His daughters are his “WHY” and what makes him get up in the morning and try to win each and every day. At Valley Trucking Insurance, Cameron oversees the provision of specialized insurance solutions tailored to the unique needs of trucking companies. The agency serves a diverse clientele, including local trucking companies, long-haul trucking companies, aggregate haulers, tow truck companies, hot shots, freight brokers, and other related risks. Cameron ensures that clients receive the highest level of customer service and comprehensive coverage through the agency’s proven process known as the "VTI Difference." Under Cameron’s leadership, Valley Trucking Insurance has achieved significant growth and expansion across the county. The agency has built strong partnerships with renowned insurance providers such as Great West Casualty Company, Lancer Insurance Company, Progressive Insurance, Berkshire, and Canal. Additionally, Cameron also focuses on placing fleet-sized trucking companies into captive insurance programs, enhancing their risk management and financial stability. Looking ahead, Cameron is focused on an ambitious goal of expanding the agency’s reach by looking to help over 10,000 Trucking Companies and Freight Brokerage operations within the next seven years. Adhering to the principles outlined in the book Traction by Geno Wickman, he is dedicated to creating world-class onboarding and customer service experience for his trucking clients. This initiative aims to foster a culture of excellence and continuous improvement, ensuring Valley Trucking Insurance remains at the forefront of the industry. Connect with Cameron Website: LinkedIn: Email: Cameron@alllinesinsure.com 📊📉 Don’t miss out on the latest market trends by subscribing to your TOP Transportation Morning Show! 🌎 🎬🎯 #TheFreightCoach Morning Show is LIVE every weekday at 10:30 AM CST to break down transportation industry headlines! Mark your calendars! To Find Out More About My Freight Services Visit 🤝 Shoutout to my sponsors!👇 SPI Logistics | Revenova | NMFTA | DAT Freight & Analytics | 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/40090345

1385. #TFCP - The Compliance Hammer: FMCSA Sweeps & The UPS Labor War! 02/11/2026

1384. #TFCP - Boutique vs. Bulk: Why Service-First Brokerage is Winning in 2026! 02/10/2026

1384. #TFCP - Boutique vs. Bulk: Why Service-First Brokerage is Winning in 2026! Are you relying too much on technology to win freight customers? Are cold calls and in-person meetings still the real drivers of freight brokerage growth in 2026? Today’s guest, Travis Dodge of Wheelhouse Logistics, breaks down why personal outreach, consistent prospecting, and clear communication still outperform fancy tech stacks when it comes to freight sales, logistics business development, and long-term shipper relationships! We talk about how smaller, local freight brokers can compete with large national 3PLs by leveraging local market knowledge, fast response times, and personalized service that shippers actually value, plus why execution and communication are what keep customers loyal and freight operations profitable. We also get real about entrepreneurship in the freight industry, covering the grit, daily discipline, rejection management, and ownership mindset required to build a successful freight brokerage, along with actionable strategies like proactive carrier communication, invoice follow-ups, and consistent relationship building that drive trust, repeat business, and sustainable growth in today’s competitive transportation and logistics market! About Travis Dodge Travis began his career as an independent freight agent in 2014. Starting from scratch, he built an extremely successful book of business, which included a team of sub-agents and account managers. At his previous brokerage, he was the company's top agency six years in a row. After 10 years, Travis and his team launched Wheelhouse Logistics, a domestic freight brokerage which specializes in partial truckloads, temp-controlled LTL, and time-sensitive freight. Travis lives in Oakland, California with his wife, two kids, and mutt named Ted. Connect with Travis 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 | DAT Freight & Analytics | 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/40062475

1383. #TFCP - Smarter Finance: Avoiding the Lending Traps Killing Small Fleets! 02/09/2026

1383. #TFCP - Smarter Finance: Avoiding the Lending Traps Killing Small Fleets! If you’re locking in the wrong contracts or risking your business with bad financing, this episode with Rob Misheloff of Smarter Finance USA explains why you need a smarter freight pricing strategy, cautious contract bids, and strong carrier relationships to stay profitable in today’s volatile transportation market. Rob covers the current trucking financing challenges, from equipment costs doubling and tighter credit markets to the reality of personal guarantees, common predatory lending scams, and the financial mistakes first-time owner-operators make when they don’t know their true cost per mile. We also discuss the best truck financing practices, including why OEM dealers should be your first stop, when banks make sense, and how trusted brokers can help when options get tight—so you can protect your cash flow, avoid risky contracts, and build a trucking business that actually lasts! About Rob Misheloff Robert is the founder of . After spending 10 years running a marketing company that served equipment finance and small-business finance brands, he built Smarter Finance USA to address a recurring problem he saw across the industry: when small businesses couldn’t access bank loans, many were pushed into opaque financing processes where critical details were unclear until late in the deal. Robert’s work centers on helping business owners and commercial sellers understand the real terms behind equipment and commercial vehicle financing - how offers are structured, where costs hide, and how to protect against common traps such as rate/term misrepresentation, conditional approvals, fee stacking, and deposit scams. His insights have been featured in industry outlets including Manufacturing.net and Overdrive Online. 📊📉 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 | DAT Freight & Analytics | 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/40049955

1382. #TFCP - Beyond the Policy: Why Data and Behavior Drive Your Insurance Costs! 02/06/2026

1382. #TFCP - Beyond the Policy: Why Data and Behavior Drive Your Insurance Costs! How are rising trucking insurance costs quietly driving up your shipping rates and overall freight market pricing? In this episode, Chris Loewenberg from Cottingham & Butler get real about trucking insurance, risk management, and why so many companies treat insurance like a fixed tax instead of a controllable business asset that can either protect or bankrupt your operation! From the dangers of static COIs and the urgent need for real-time insurance verification technology, to the impact of nuclear verdicts, new carriers, and rising insurance premiums on shipping costs and inflation, this conversation is all about practical freight brokerage insights and proactive strategies. We also cover how partnering with specialized trucking insurance providers, building stronger safety programs, and collaborating early with insurance partners can reduce uncovered freight risk, improve pricing, and give compliant carriers and brokers a serious competitive advantage in today’s trucking industry! About Chris Loewenberg Chris Loewenberg is a Vice President at , the nation’s largest independent insurance agency dedicated exclusively to the trucking industry. He leads inside sales and technology initiatives focused on small and mid-sized fleets, helping carriers navigate rising insurance costs, increasing complexity, and tighter underwriting scrutiny. With a background that blends sales leadership, insurance expertise, and technology innovation, Chris works at the intersection of trucking operations, risk management, and data strategy. He partners closely with leading technology vendors across the transportation ecosystem to improve how insurance information is collected, validated, and used—reducing manual re-keying, accelerating quote turnaround times, and strengthening trust between carriers, agents, underwriters, and technology providers. In addition to his leadership role, Chris oversees and helps develop Cottingham & Butler’s intern and early-career talent programs, working closely with universities and athletic departments to introduce students to sales, insurance, and risk management careers. He is passionate about mentoring young professionals, building high-performing teams, and creating clear development paths from internship to full-time roles. ************************************************************** 📊📉 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 | DAT Freight & Analytics | 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/40023275

1381. #TFCP - Defending the Road: Mobile Maintenance & The Fight for Uptime! 02/05/2026

1381. #TFCP - Defending the Road: Mobile Maintenance & The Fight for Uptime! Are you still treating maintenance as a last-minute repair instead of a long-term fleet strategy? Are mobile mechanics the missing piece to improving fleet uptime, reducing downtime, and controlling maintenance costs? Let’s hear Chris Boyce from Coltrain Onsite Fleet Care speak about how the mobile mechanic industry is growing fast and creating real career opportunities for diesel technicians while helping fleets stay proactive with preventive maintenance that actually lowers the total cost of ownership. Chris dives into how aligning experienced technicians with the right fleets, using advanced diagnostic tools, and focusing on on-site service helps improve reliability, driver satisfaction, and operational efficiency across transportation and logistics, why tracking key fleet maintenance metrics like PM compliance and downtime is essential for optimizing performance and building strong vendor partnerships, and how Coltrain is expanding nationwide and actively hiring skilled technicians who want autonomy, career growth, and a chance to keep freight moving safely and efficiently! About Chris Boyce Chris Boyce brings a rare blend of hands-on technical expertise and senior-level operational leadership to the fleet maintenance industry. He began his career as a technician, quickly distinguishing himself through a strong work ethic, technical excellence, and a natural ability to lead teams. After completing formal management training, Chris successfully combined his field experience with strategic leadership skills to drive performance, accountability, and long-term growth. Before joining Dickinson Fleet Services, Chris gained valuable experience at Ryder Transportation and within the heavy-duty truck dealer sector, beginning as an entry-level technician and working behind the wrench for 10 years, while developing a deep understanding of fleet operations, customer service, and large-scale maintenance environments. He worked his way up to branch manager, where he started his leadership journey. Following that, he served a seven-year tenure, including the last 4 years as General Manager, at Dickinson Fleet Services/Cox Automotive, where he built the foundation and led one of the company’s most successful and productive regions, consistently delivering strong operational and financial results. Now serving as Regional Vice President at , Chris is known for building high-performing teams, executing at scale, and leading with clarity and purpose. He is widely respected for his ability to align people, process, and performance, and he brings a proven track record of operational excellence to every organization he serves. 📊📉 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 | DAT Freight & Analytics | 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/40009265

1380. #TFCP - The $50,000 Fine: Florida’s Driver Crackdown & January’s Capacity Flip! 02/04/2026

1380. #TFCP - The $50,000 Fine: Florida’s Driver Crackdown & January’s Capacity Flip! What’s really happening with freight rates right now—and are you pricing your lanes the right way as capacity tightens? Are new regulations and insurance scrutiny about to reshape carrier operations in 2026? Today, I break down real-time freight market trends, including stable reefer rates on the Kansas City to Minneapolis lane averaging around $1,285, and why day-of-week pricing strategies are critical for brokers managing customer expectations and protecting margins! We dig into the rising Minneapolis outbound reefer demand nearing $2,300, the impact of tightening transportation capacity and increased tender rejections in January 2026, plus what Florida’s potential $50,000 fines for undocumented drivers and growing compliance enforcement mean for carriers and insurance risk. Be sure to listen to hear more about the “This Week in Freight” lane analysis segment, delivering actionable DAT-powered pricing insights to help brokers and carriers make smarter decisions, while reinforcing my core philosophy—disciplined pricing, transparency, and long-term relationship building are the keys to surviving competitive pressure and building a sustainable freight business in today’s evolving logistics market! References / Resources 📊📉 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 | DAT Freight & Analytics | 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/39998855

1379. #TFCP - F4A Preemption & Negligent Hiring: Breaking Down the SCOTUS Case! 02/03/2026

1379. #TFCP - F4A Preemption & Negligent Hiring: Breaking Down the SCOTUS Case! In this episode, The Armchair Attorney Matt Leffler discusses the upcoming Supreme Court case involving C.H. Robinson and why its ruling could finally bring clarity to freight broker liability, negligent hiring claims, and federal preemption under the F4A! We talk about how conflicting court decisions have created uncertainty for brokers, why the industry relies on FMCSA data to vet motor carriers, and how a ruling against brokers could drive smaller players out of the market due to rising insurance and legal costs. Matt also covers the growing tension between state tort laws and federal regulation, the role of the US Chamber of Commerce, and what brokers must do right now to manage risk - strict carrier vetting, avoiding operational control over drivers, and staying within established protocols. This decision will shape broker liability, insurance requirements, and the future structure of the freight industry, and it’s something every broker moving freight today needs to understand, so make sure to tune in! About Matthew Leffler Matthew is a 3rd generation supply chain executive with over fifteen years of experience in safety, law, & maintenance. Matthew currently serves as Vice President of Strategic Accounts at Contract Leasing Corp. He is also an attorney that provides legal commentary on various supply chain issues & operates a popular podcast. In addition, Matthew has served as a senior leader with some of the nation’s most admired maintenance, repair, & fleet management firms. Matthew entered the industry as an attorney defending trucking companies in civil litigation in 2010, but cut his teeth helping build & later selling his family’s maintenance firm, Outsource Fleet Services, Inc. Matthew earned his J.D. from Michigan State University College of Law, Magna Cum Laude, and his B.A. from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. He is licensed to practice law in the State of Illinois; U.S. District Court, Northern District of Illinois; & 7th Circuit Court of Appeals. Matthew is the proud father of Michael, Rowan, Elise, & Elijah & has been happily married to his wife, Holly, since 2008. 📊📉 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 | DAT Freight & Analytics | 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/39983200

1378. #TFCP - The Capacity Purge: Earnings, AI Agents, and the Future of Freight! 02/02/2026

1377. #TFCP - The TMS Playbook: Discovery, Implementation, and Team Adoption! 01/30/2026

1377. #TFCP - The TMS Playbook: Discovery, Implementation, and Team Adoption! If you’re struggling to integrate legacy systems without killing visibility or choose the right TMS partner that actually delivers long-term value, tune in to this episode with Petra Nenickova from Legacy Supply Chain to know what real-world technology integration and digital transformation look like in today’s freight environment across the US and Canada! From managing complex legacy systems and selecting flexible, integration-ready TMS platforms to driving user adoption through frontline involvement, practical training, and ongoing post-launch support, we get into how to evaluate vendors beyond polished demos, why system integrations like EDI and APIs are non-negotiable, how to prioritize core operations at go-live, and why clear communication and change management are the real drivers of ROI, visibility, and scalable freight technology success! About Petra Nenickova Petra currently manages the transportation tech stack, including their TMS, and she led several TMS projects from early discovery all the way through implementation. These experiences have taught her a lot about what truly works, what doesn’t, and how to guide teams through change with confidence. She's genuinely passionate about both technology and transportation, and she loves the challenge of making systems more effective in supporting real business processes while creating a positive user experience. With a background in both front‑line operations and management, she understands the everyday challenges people face and what makes technology genuinely useful. She thrives on connecting the dots, solving problems, and helping people work smarter through better processes and better technology. Connect with Petra 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/39934000

1376. #TFCP - W-2 to 1099: Why 2026 is the Year of the Independent Freight Agent! 01/29/2026

1375. #TFCP - The Enterprise Gatekeeper: Why Your Lack of EDI is Killing Your Growth! 01/28/2026

1375. #TFCP - The Enterprise Gatekeeper: Why Your Lack of EDI is Killing Your Growth! Find out if EDI is still the backbone of scalable freight operations and what happens when you stop penalizing brokers for growth in this episode with our returning guest, Brad Perling of Bitfreighter! Brad shares why their EDI-first freight technology strategy is quietly reshaping shipper integration, automated quoting, and brokerage scalability. Brad and I talk through why EDI remains the most reliable foundation for freight data integrity, how unlimited EDI messaging pricing removes one of the biggest cost barriers for growing brokerages, seamless integration through APIs and RPA across TMS platforms and load boards, and how real-time quoting analytics are driving millions in new revenue for customers. If you’re a freight broker or shipper looking to scale without breaking your tech stack or your budget, this conversation lays out exactly why EDI (if done right) is still a competitive advantage in modern freight tech! About Brad Perling Brad Perling is the CEO and co-founder of Bitfreighter. With over 15 years of experience in the industry and growing 2 successful brokerages, Brad's deep understanding of logistics challenges has fueled his passion for finding better software solutions. He knew there was a need for a disruptive new model in the EDI space and was determined to create it. He has a passion for aviation and enjoys playing hockey and golf while spending time with his wife and 2 kids. Connect with Brad 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/39909235

1374. #TFCP - The Hybrid Powerhouse: Human Intelligence in an AI Freight World! 01/27/2026

1374. #TFCP - The Hybrid Powerhouse: Human Intelligence in an AI Freight World! Find out where the human edge and automation matter in freight brokerage in this episode with Alex Schick of Alliance Logistix, sharing how smart freight automation, carrier invoicing automation, and AI in logistics can drive efficiency without sacrificing carrier relationships or customer trust! Alex talk through why automating tedious tasks like carrier invoicing and document collection speeds payment cycles, reduces errors, and boosts carrier satisfaction, while keeping real humans front and center for load booking and relationship management, why AI should act as an assistant (not a replacement) for brokers, fleets, and driver managers, how tailored transportation technology beats bloated all-in-one systems, and why small fleets can dramatically improve profitability through better cost management, insurance shopping, and maintenance strategies. If you’re a freight broker, fleet owner, or logistics leader trying to balance automation with personal service while protecting margins in a tight market, this conversation is full of practical insights you can apply immediately! About Alex Schick Alex embarked on his logistics adventure in 2007 at Intransit, which later transformed into DSV Road through several acquisitions. Starting from the bottom in tracking and tracing, he quickly climbed the ranks. By 2009, he was overseeing a small region of freight in Northern California. His responsibilities expanded significantly by 2014, when he began handling all customer bids, pricing, and rate structures for carriers. At that point, he also managed the operations side of about 40% of the branch's freight. In early 2017, he became the branch manager, overseeing the overall strategy and direction of the entire branch. From 2014 to the end of 2018, they grew from 7,000 truckloads per year to 55,000 truckloads per year as an agency. They expanded from 6 employees to 18 and from $5 million in revenue to almost $20 million. They were a bootstrapped company growing like crazy before the tech boom hit the industry. He left DSV in 2019 and joined Wilson Logistics in 2020. Together with his wife, Natalie, they started to rebuild. By the end of 2020, they had hired their first employee in their Wilson Agency. In early 2023, they departed the agent model and co-founded Alliance Logistix LLC. By late 2023, they ventured into asset-based trucking alongside their brokerage. Today, they have 12 employees in the brokerage, 7 drivers, and 2 employees at their asset company. They are currently handling volumes of more than 30,000 truckloads annually. With nearly two decades of industry experience, he’s committed to fostering strong relationships, building alliances, and identifying synergies with their customers and carriers. They are focused on being a lean as possible, efficient as possible, and eliminating and/or automating repetitive and monotonous tasks with technology and automation. The most important thing is that they are keeping to their roots of the family feel for their customers, carriers, and employees alike. After all, in logistics, it's all about the journey and the company you keep! Connect with Alex Website: Email: Office Phone: 559-899-3177 📊📉 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/39897485

1373. #TFCP - Nuclear Verdict Defense: Why Your DOT Files are a Legal Minefield! 01/26/2026

1372. #TFCP - Scaling Globally: How Outsourcing is Changing the 3PL Game! 01/23/2026

1372. #TFCP - Scaling Globally: How Outsourcing is Changing the 3PL Game! What happens when sales slip, costs explode, and the market stays tough longer than anyone expected? How do you scale a freight brokerage without burning cash or losing focus? In this episode, our returning guest from Thrivemodal, Kyle Wilson, is back to explain why founders must stay relentlessly focused on business development and how outsourcing operations to the Philippines cuts monthly costs while improving scalability and service quality. Kyle also shares a grounded outlook on the 2026 freight market, infrastructure-driven demand, global workforce integration through cloud logistics technology, and why combining elite sales talent with lean operations is the real competitive advantage for modern freight brokerages! About Kyle Wilson For over a decade, I've been immersed in the dynamic worlds of strategic logistics and digital professionals, driven by an unwavering passion to help businesses thrive. As the founder of two successful companies, Thrivemodal and Yellow Diamond Logistics, I've witnessed firsthand the transformative power of seamless operations and a dedicated virtual workforce. At Thrivemodal, I've spearheaded the growth of a thriving virtual professional agency, connecting businesses across the US with exceptional talent from the Philippines. Our team of highly skilled global professionals seamlessly integrates into client operations, providing administrative, technical, and creative support that fuels business growth. My expertise in strategic logistics extends to Yellow Diamond Logistics, where I guide businesses in optimizing their supply chain operations. I relish the challenge of streamlining processes, reducing costs, and enhancing efficiency, empowering my clients to achieve their strategic goals. Whether it's navigating the complexities of logistics or harnessing the power of global staffing, I'm committed to empowering businesses to reach their full potential. I believe in forging strong partnerships, fostering innovation, and cultivating a culture of excellence. When I'm not strategizing in the logistics landscape or steering the Thrivemodal ship, you'll find me exploring new horizons. Let's connect and explore how Yellow Diamond Logistics and Thrivemodal can contribute to the narrative of your business journey. Connect with Kyle Website: / Email: kyle@thrivemodal.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/39847595

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

The Freight Coach Podcast

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