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Published by Oakley Trucking
The Oakley Podcast is a trucking industry podcast that educates and empowers owner-operators by providing relevant industry, market, and company news in a digestible audio format.
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This week on the Oakley Podcast, Jeremy Kellett sits down at Oakley’s Reserve Terminal in Louisiana with dispatchers Dillon Falgoust and Matt Arceneaux to highlight the people and operations behind the scenes. They share how they started in the shop before moving into dispatch, what they learned about trucking, hours of service, and safety, and how much respect they’ve gained for professional drivers. The conversation dives into what makes an Owner Operator of the Year, including communication, reliability, clean equipment, and strong customer relationships, as well as how they review settlements and partner with drivers to hit income goals. They also discuss the tight-knit culture at the Reserve terminal, coordination with the North Little Rock office, the importance of safety in end-dump operations, and how Oakley’s high standards for appearance and professionalism set their owner-operators apart. Overall, the episode gives listeners an inside look at how dispatch and drivers work together as a team to build successful, family-supporting careers in trucking. Key topics in today’s conversation include: Welcome to This Week’s Episode And Driver Appreciation Week (0:53) Highlighting Reserve Louisiana Terminal And Jeremy’s Early Story There (4:23) Dillon’s Background, Family, And Path From Shop To Dispatch (6:03) Matt’s Background, Time In the Shop, And Move Into Local Dispatch (9:58) Lessons Learned Moving From Construction To Fast-Paced Dispatch Work (13:00) What Makes an Owner-Operator of the Year And Qualities That Stand Out (17:30) Reviewing Settlements, Driver Income Goals, And Handling Slow Weeks (20:12) Hours Of Service, Driver Clocks, And Planning Loads Around Time Limits (26:30) Opportunities Around Reserve Terminal And Need For More Owner Operators (30:45) Showing Drivers As Normal Hardworking Neighbors (33:25) Possible Upgrades To Driver Showers And Making Terminal More Comfortable (35:09) High Standards For Oakley Owner Operators (37:30) Comparing Oakley Trucks To Other Carriers And Attracting Potential Recruits (39:02) Closing Thoughts and Appreciation For Drivers (40:41) Oakley Trucking is a family-owned and operated trucking company headquartered in North Little Rock, Arkansas. For more information, check out our show website: podcast.bruceoakley.com . Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
This week on the Oakley Podcast, Jeremy Kellett sits down with long-time shop foreman Toby Bishop to unpack how Oakley’s shop operations are evolving to better serve owner-operators. They cover the design and opening of the new West Shop, the full remodel of the East Shop, and planned upgrades to the wash bay, including floor and lighting improvements. Toby explains Oakley’s work-release and reentry programs with the state of Arkansas, highlighting how they give incarcerated individuals a real second chance and help them become strong employees. A major focus is the upcoming fleet-wide tire and wheel change from 11R24.5 to 22.5, why manufacturers are phasing out 24.5s, and how Oakley will manage costs, casings, and logistics during the transition. They also discuss trailer specs with MAC, strategies for keeping trailers looking sharp, and the underused capabilities of the Reserve LA terminal. The key takeaway for drivers: Oakley is investing heavily in facilities, equipment, and people to improve efficiency, safety, appearance, and long-term cost savings, and driver communication is critical to making these changes work. Key topics in today’s conversation include: Truck Show Announcement and Sponsor Shoutouts (0:12) Introducing Toby Bishop and Purpose of Shop Conversation (4:34) New West Shop Overview and Design Goals (7:47) Ventilation Challenges, Storage Additions, and Morale Boost (10:31) How the Old East Shop Was Emptied and Fully Remodeled (13:34) Repurposed Brick Sign From Original Office Building (21:32) How Oakley’s Work Release Program With Arkansas Works (25:51) Wash Bay Layout and Purpose of the Third Express Bay (31:20) Why Drivers Can’t Just Wash Anything and City Sampling Rules (32:39) Illumiclear Clear Coat Failing on Tanks and Removal Plan (39:41) Why Oakley Is Changing From 11R24.5 to 22.5 Tires (41:23) Dollars per Tire, Wheel, and Mount Adding Up Across Fleet (48:42) Ground Clearance Loss Going to 22.5 and Low Pro Risks (52:17) Tank Trailer Spec Changes to Reduce Valves and Components (56:12) Reserve Terminal Capabilities in Shop and Wash Bays (1:00:37) Idea of a Ready Yard for Trailers and Dispatch Benefits (1:02:17) Growing Pains, Space Limits, and Future Shop Expansion (1:03:57) Parting Thoughts and Episode Wrap-Up (1:06:27) Oakley Trucking is a family-owned and operated trucking company headquartered in North Little Rock, Arkansas. For more information, check out our show website: podcast.bruceoakley.com . Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
This week on the Oakley Podcast, Jeremy Kellett sits down with OOIDA’s Lewie Pugh to unpack several key issues affecting truckers today, including the Freedom Haulers initiative that helps military veterans transition into civilian trucking by waiving certain CDL tests, and why carriers still need to provide extra training and support so veterans don’t get caught in industry churn. They dig into Delilah’s Law and related DOT rule changes on English proficiency and non-domiciled CDLs, stressing the need for drivers to contact lawmakers to get these protections codified. Lewie updates listeners on broker transparency efforts, widespread fraud, and why building direct shipper relationships matters more than ever. They also cover the national truck parking shortage, new funding and expansion projects (like on I‑70 and in Illinois), and how future highway bills could add more free parking capacity. Finally, they discuss the sting of surging fuel prices, the importance of solid fuel surcharge structures and discounts (including OOIDA’s fuel card), and the broader mission of OOIDA to advocate for drivers, lower turnover, and keep small trucking businesses alive. Key topics in today’s conversation include: Value Of a Good Shop and Long-Term Maintenance Relationships (3:17) Freedom Haulers Event at the White House and Veteran CDL Waivers (7:54) Extra Training Needed When Veterans Transition To Civilian Trucking (11:12) Delilah’s Law, English Proficiency, and Non-Domiciled CDL Crackdown (15:24) Detention Time, Shippers, Receivers, and Loading Inefficiencies (18:27) Broker Transparency, Fraud, Motus Issues, and Safety Concerns (23:11) Illinois Rest Area Projects and Upcoming Federal Parking Funds (27:54) Mental and Physical Toll of Trucking and Daily Frustrations (33:18) Oakley’s Fuel Surcharge Structure and Fuel Discount Strategy (38:03) OOIDA Fuel Card, Multiple Discount Cards, and Controlling Costs (39:44) Truck Driver Appreciation Week and Long Beach IANA Event (43:45) How To Join OOIDA, Membership Code, and Key Member Benefits (44:59) Closing Thoughts and Final Thanks to Drivers (48:15) Oakley Trucking is a family-owned and operated trucking company headquartered in North Little Rock, Arkansas. For more information, check out our show website: podcast.bruceoakley.com . Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
This week on the Oakley Podcast, Jeremy Kellett sits down with Oakley owner-operator Aaron Murphy and recruiter Dustin Eagle to share Aaron’s powerful journey from plumber and screen printer to truck driver, through a prison sentence, and back into trucking with a clear plan and written goals. Aaron talks about running under his own authority, going $75,000 into debt from breakdowns, and why he ultimately chose to lease on with Oakley for stability and support. They discuss moving from California to a rural property in Oklahoma, breeding Cane Corso dogs, and what life on the road is really like with all the planning and safety that demands. Aaron explains the challenges and rewards of pulling a dump trailer, the importance of a strong dispatcher relationship, and how family support, especially from his wife, made becoming a successful owner-operator possible. He also shares how his YouTube channel “Vlog Per Mile” gives honest advice to drivers, and how he prides himself on being a top safety performer, constantly chasing the #1 green score in Oakley’s fleet. Key topics in today’s conversation include: How Aaron Got Into Trucking and His Early Career Path (4:50) Prison, Personal Turnaround, and Goal Setting to Rebuild Life (6:08) Importance of Family, Church, and Mentor Support After Setbacks (7:52) Becoming an Owner-Operator Under His Own Authority and Early Struggles (9:49) Leaving Own Authority, Leasing On Elsewhere, and Finding Oakley (13:55) Why Aaron Chose Oakley and How He Researched the Company (15:53) First Three Months at a New Company and Income Expectations (17:03) Life on the Road Explained as Camping and Working at the Same Time (21:35) Introducing Aaron’s YouTube Channel Vlog Per Mile (26:39) Referring Prospects to Oakley and Working With Dustin on Recruits (29:44) Future Goals, New International Truck Payment, and Trailer Aspirations (34:19) Chasing the Top Green Score and Daily Focus on Safety (35:22) Final Thoughts and Episode Wrap-Up (37:19) Oakley Trucking is a family-owned and operated trucking company headquartered in North Little Rock, Arkansas. For more information, check out our show website: podcast.bruceoakley.com . Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
This week on the Oakley Podcast, Jeremy Kellett sits down with pneumatic operations managers Austin Allen and Bradley Simpson to break down Oakley’s pneumatic division, including straight “dirt” tanks and vacuum pneumatics. They explain how pneumatic tanks work, why customers choose them for dry bulk products going into silos and plants, and how vacuum trailers can both load and unload material, especially plastics from rail cars. The conversation covers day-to-day operational challenges, the critical role of communication with dispatch and customers, and the intense focus on trailer cleanliness to avoid costly contamination issues. They also walk through how new drivers are trained, common rookie mistakes, what makes a top-tier pneumatic owner-operator, and why experience, patience, and professionalism at customer facilities are essential. Finally, they highlight strong freight demand, growth opportunities, new equipment coming in, and the higher pay and expectations that come with being part of Oakley’s pneumatic and vacuum pneumatic operations. Key topics in today’s conversation include: Company Updates, Iowa 80 Feature on CBS News (1:30) Introducing Bradley Simpson and Austin Allen and Their Backgrounds (4:30) What a Pneumatic Tank Is and How It Works (6:19) Why Customers Choose Pneumatic Trailers and Unloading Into Silos (9:17) Daily Operational Challenges and Serving 24/7 Plants (12:11) Changes in Customer Communication and EDI Freight Tenders (13:44) Difference Between Straight Tanks and Vacuum Pneumatic Tanks (15:35) Common Cleaning Practices, Drying Trailers, and Avoiding Contamination (18:19) Key Driver Qualities: Intimidation, Training, and What Makes a Good Operator (20:17) Why Communication With Dispatch Matters More Than Drivers Think (27:15) Customer Service Expectations and Representing Oakley at Facilities (29:44) Future of the Pneumatic Division, Growth, and New Trailers (32:22) Requirements to Move Into Pneumatics and Then Vacuum Pneumatics (35:48) Recruiting Challenges, Elite Owner Operators, and Final Advice (37:39) Oakley Trucking is a family-owned and operated trucking company headquartered in North Little Rock, Arkansas. For more information, check out our show website: podcast.bruceoakley.com . Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
This week on the Oakley Podcast, Jeremy Kellett sits down with young dispatchers Kyle Williams and Alden Hazelwood to talk about their paths to Oakley Trucking, starting in the shop, and how that hands-on experience now shapes the way they dispatch. They discuss key topics like the 2290 heavy road use tax reminder, the dangers of road rage and speeding, and why communication between drivers, dispatch, and customers is critical. Kyle and Alden explain their day-to-day responsibilities, how they plan loads, manage problems like breakdowns, and track settlements to ensure owner-operators get good miles and pay. They also highlight the importance of relationships, understanding geography and different dry bulk divisions (hoppers, pneumatics, end dumps), and seeing things from both the customer and driver perspective. The main takeaway for listeners is that successful trucking at Oakley depends on safety, clear communication, mutual trust, and a shared commitment between dispatch and owner-operators to pull in the same direction. Key topics in today’s conversation include: Reminder About 2290 Heavy Road Use Tax Deadline (1:10) Discussion on Road Rage, Speeding, and Driver Professionalism (2:17) How Alden Found Oakley and His Previous Fiber Optic Job (7:27) How Kyle Pivoted From Physical Therapy to Dispatch at Oakley (8:51) How Shop Experience Helps Them Now in Dispatch (12:14) Learning Geography and Load Planning Challenges (14:03) Daily Responsibilities and Morning Problems in Dispatch (16:49) Importance of Communication vs Confrontation With Drivers (19:42) Bringing Drivers in for Face to Face Meetings About Issues (22:17) Young Dispatchers Working With Veteran Owner-Operators (24:05) Learning Drivers’ Hobbies and Building Relationships (27:36) Differences Between Pneumatics, Hoppers, and End Dumps (28:39) What Dispatchers Want From Drivers to Make Jobs Easier (31:12) How Dispatchers Protect Driver Earnings and Check Settlements (32:37) Reviewing Miles, Deductions, and Detention on Settlements (34:09) Final Thoughts and Takeaways (35:11) Oakley Trucking is a family-owned and operated trucking company headquartered in North Little Rock, Arkansas. For more information, check out our show website: podcast.bruceoakley.com . Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
This week on the Oakley Podcast, Jeremy Kellett talks with Oakley owner-operator Eddie Wormsbacher about his path from working in his dad’s kids’ furniture business in Michigan to hauling 160,000 lb heavy loads and eventually becoming a dry bulk owner operator at Oakley Trucking. Eddie shares how the collapse of the family business pushed him into trucking in 2010, his early struggles as a company driver, and the scary leap into owning his own truck, including the financial risk, maintenance realities, and insurance challenges. He opens up about balancing life on the road with a 30-year marriage, three kids, and a new grandchild, as well as how his background in customer service shapes the way he treats shippers, receivers, and Oakley’s reputation. Throughout the conversation, Eddie and Jeremy highlight key takeaways about discipline with money, the importance of safety and dealing with distracted drivers, Oakley’s high expectations and support, and why real success as an owner operator comes down to mindset, responsibility, and family priorities. Key topics in today’s conversation include: Calendar Photo Contest Details and Examples of Past Photos (0:41) Eddie’s Dad’s Kids Furniture Business and Warehouse Role (4:08) Transition from Delivery Business to Trucking Career in 2010 (7:51) How Eddie Met His Wife and Strained Relationship with Dad (10:19) Starting Trucking: Company Driver Years and Michigan Heavy Haul (12:26) Hitting a Pay Ceiling and Considering Owner Operator Leap (16:07) Coming to Oakley Trucking and Staying in Dry Bulk (18:36) PTO Programming Ordeal on Automatic Truck and Transition to Pneumatic (24:40) Daily Challenges: Distracted Drivers, Time Management, and Maintenance (27:27) Pros and Cons of Working at Oakley and High Expectations (30:59) Big Repair Streak, Borrowing From Home, and Using Miles To Recover (34:44) Loving vs Needing Trucking and Why He Won’t Put a Driver in His Truck (37:50) Final Reflections on Trucking, Family, and Owner Operator Reality (40:03) Oakley Trucking is a family-owned and operated trucking company headquartered in North Little Rock, Arkansas. For more information, check out our show website: podcast.bruceoakley.com . Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
This week on the Oakley Podcast, Jeremy Kellett sits down with Hopper Division Operations Managers Bryan Hill and Russell Vallance to break down how Oakley’s Hopper Division works, who it’s right for, and why it’s growing. They explain Oakley’s three dry bulk divisions (hoppers, end dumps, pneumatics), how hopper freight is consistent with many repeat customers (roofing granules, pet food, etc.), and why hoppers are often the simplest way for an owner-operator to get started, with no need for a wet kit or blower and relatively light trailers. They discuss pros such as steady freight, regular lanes, the ability to get many drivers home most weekends, and strong customer relationships, as well as cons including cleaning out trailers and competition from smaller hopper carriers. The conversation highlights how dispatchers are motivated to keep drivers generating revenue, the importance of effective communication regarding load times and breakdowns, the role of technology and e-logs in day-to-day operations, and specific growth needs in regions such as Indiana, Illinois, Missouri, and the Carolinas. Overall, the key takeaway is that Oakley’s hopper division offers a strong niche with solid earning potential and consistency for committed owner-operators who value service and communication. Key topics in today’s conversation include: Welcome to Today’s Episode on the Hopper Division (0:43) Introducing Bryan Hill and Russell Vallance and Their Backgrounds (4:54) Roles of Hopper Operations Managers and Board Structures (7:20) Pros of Hopper Division From an Operations Perspective (10:16) Cons for Drivers Like Cleaning Out Hoppers and Weather Challenges (13:02) Pay Structure, Weight Incentives, and Importance of Light Trucks (15:25) How Dispatchers Stay Motivated and Focused on Driver Earnings (18:57) Biggest Daily Challenges With Delivery Times and Communication (21:34) Lessons Learned Moving From Dispatcher to Operations Manager (23:49) Why Hopper Division Could Grow Much Larger and Why It Hasn’t Yet (28:04) Home Weekend Opportunities in Midwest and East Coast Regions (30:34) Key Messages to Current Owner Operators About Communication (33:49) Final Thoughts and Takeaways (42:34) Oakley Trucking is a family-owned and operated trucking company headquartered in North Little Rock, Arkansas. For more information, check out our show website: podcast.bruceoakley.com . Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
This week on the Oakley Podcast, Jeremy Kellett explains why Oakley Trucking began buying and renting trucks to its owner operators as a solution to long downtime caused by modern emissions-related breakdowns. He walks through the evolution from pairing drivers to using MHC Leasing and ultimately building Oakley’s own small fleet of rental Kenworths, primarily for owner operators whose trucks are down or no longer worth repairing. Jeremy shares feedback from drivers like Rico and Brandon, who highlight reduced maintenance headaches, better cash flow, and tax advantages, while clarifying that renters are still treated as 1099s and are responsible for certain costs like flats or damage. He also touches on current fuel discounts, the importance of sending complete safety paperwork, and previews upcoming episodes like having your own authority versus leasing to a company, and more. Key topics in today’s conversation include: Fuel Discounts and Safety Paperwork (0:33) How Emissions Problems Led to Long Truck Downtime (4:16) Oakley Buys Its Own Kenworth Rental Trucks (8:19) Why Some Drivers Choose Long-Term Rental over Buying a Truck (11:59) Limited Fleet, Who Qualifies, and Trailer Types Available (15:27) Rental Responsibilities, No Pets or Smoking, and What Oakley Covers (16:40) Final Thoughts and Preview of Upcoming Episodes (20:27) Oakley Trucking is a family-owned and operated trucking company headquartered in North Little Rock, Arkansas. For more information, check out our show website: podcast.bruceoakley.com . Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
This week on the Oakley Podcast, Jeremy Kellett sits down with producer Anna Belle Burrow and longtime Oakley team member Corey Huey to look back on how the show started, evolved, and grew into a 100,000-subscriber podcast. They walk through the early days of CDs, basic video shoots, and audio-only recordings launched during COVID as a way to communicate with owner-operators, and how partnering with Heard Media helped them learn podcasting and distribution. The conversation covers the studio’s transformation, favorite and most surprising episodes (including Luigi, Major General Bob Walters, JanTran, and episodes with Oakley leadership and drivers), as well as how driver stories, authenticity, and listener feedback have turned the podcast into a powerful tool for recruiting, retention, and brand-building. They close by reflecting on lessons learned about the trucking industry, the importance of celebrating truck drivers, and their excitement for the show’s future growth and content. Key topics in today’s conversation include: Welcome to Episode 300 of the Oakley Podcast (0:48) Anna Belle’s Background, Family, and Hobbies (5:05) Corey’s Role at Oakley and Life Outside Work (6:17) Discovering What a Podcast Is and COVID Communication Needs (10:44) Finding Heard Media, Getting Set Up, and First Gear Purchases (12:24) Early Episode Topics and Twice-a-Week COVID Updates (15:22) Transition to Video and When the Show “Turned the Corner” (16:14) Jeremy’s Comparison of Episode 1 vs. Episode 300 (18:38) Lighting, Cameras, Set Changes, and Brick Wall Backdrop (22:48) Growth of the Show and Role of Owner Operators (25:05) Using the Podcast as a Recruiting and Retention Tool (30:39) Funniest and Most Unfortunate Recording Moments (32:03) Listener Feedback That Keeps the Team Motivated (35:29) Lessons Learned About Trucking and Driver Stereotypes (38:24) Importance of Content Planning and Staying Current (42:58) Future Vision for the Show and New Types of Content (45:18) Hitting 100,000 Subscribers and How To Support the Channel (47:08) Final Reflections, Gratitude, and Closeout (49:01) Oakley Trucking is a family-owned and operated trucking company headquartered in North Little Rock, Arkansas. For more information, check out our show website: podcast.bruceoakley.com . Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
This week on the Oakley Podcast, Jeremy Kellett sits down with Bruce Oakley safety leaders Lee Huff and Phil Butler to explore the often unseen world of terminal safety and compliance. They discuss Lee and Phil’s backgrounds, their responsibilities across multiple terminals, and how they work with regulatory agencies like OSHA, the EPA, the Coast Guard, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, and Safe Feed/Safe Food certifiers. Key topics include upgrading safety data sheet systems, vessel plans and Coast Guard inspections, required safety drills, fall protection (OSHA’s top-cited violation), CPR and fire extinguisher training, mobile equipment training, AI-enhanced camera and security systems, and rigorous feed-grade product traceability. A major takeaway is that safety is everyone’s responsibility: employees must use proper PPE, ask questions when unsure, look out for each other, and engage in daily safety talks so that when something does go wrong, they’re prepared to respond. Key topics in today’s conversation include: Introducing ‘Miss Ruby’, Managers Meeting, and Terminal Safety Focus (1:32) Lee Huff Background, Family, and Move into Oakley Safety Role (3:28) Phil Butler Background, Terminals He Oversees, and Family Story (5:39) Overview of Regulatory Agencies: OSHA, EPA, Coast Guard, and Corps (9:50) Surprise Coast Guard Inspections and What Inspectors Look for (12:20) Getting Employee Buy‑In on Safety and Understanding the “Why” (14:12) Current Projects: SDS Rollout, CPR Instruction, Fire and Equipment Training (19:21) New Technology: Fall Protection Systems and AI‑Enabled Camera Security (22:30) Sharing Best Practices Among Terminals, Especially Fall Protection (24:52) Safe Feed Safe Food Certification, Traceability, and Contamination Control (29:03) PPE, Asking Questions, and Looking Out for Each Other (32:11) Final Thoughts and Takeaways (36:56) Oakley Trucking is a family-owned and operated trucking company headquartered in North Little Rock, Arkansas. For more information, check out our show website: podcast.bruceoakley.com . Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
This week on the Oakley Podcast, Jeremy Kellett sits with Michael and Leslie Hopper, a husband-and-wife team at Oakley Trucking, to share their late-career transition into trucking and eventual success as owner-operators. They walk through Michael’s move from multi-unit management and daycare operations and Leslie’s 31-year restaurant career into trucking in their late 40s, starting with carriers like Werner, Tyson, U.S. Xpress, and FedEx Custom Critical before buying their own trucks and ultimately landing at Oakley. The Hoppers explain how teaming works day vs. night, how they became a top revenue truck pulling an end dump, why they’re now moving to pneumatics for longer miles and higher pay, and how trucking allowed them to buy a home, build retirement, and support a large blended family. Their key message: it’s never too late to reinvent yourself, owner-operator trucking can be a powerful path to financial freedom, and companies like Oakley can make the leap from company driver to business owner much more achievable. Key topics in today’s conversation include: Welcoming the Hoppers to the Show (0:42) Leslie’s Restaurant Career and First Talk of Trucking (6:09) Michael’s Corporate and Daycare Management Background (9:17) How They Met, First Date, and Long-Distance Relationship (13:18) Convincing Leslie to Change Careers and Go to Truck School (16:44) Training Together at U.S. Xpress and Becoming a Team (18:23) Why Teaming Works for Them, Day vs Night Driving, and Resets (23:44) Taking the Leap to Owner Operator and Early Panic With No Loads (26:35) Running FedEx Custom Critical and Department of Defense Freight (29:59) Leaving FedEx, Short Hazmat Stop, and Choosing Oakley (33:17) Deadheading, Emergency Loads, and Being a Top Revenue Truck (36:27) Leslie’s Social Media, Oakley Community, and Dump Video Followers (41:01) Buying Their House on Five Acres And Building Late-Life Retirement (44:02) Moving From End Dump to Pneumatic and Chasing Higher Rates (47:32) Why It’s Not Too Late to Start Trucking at 50 and Thrive (52:39) Oakley Trucking is a family-owned and operated trucking company headquartered in North Little Rock, Arkansas. For more information, check out our show website: podcast.bruceoakley.com . Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
This week on the Oakley Podcast, Jeremy Kellett sits down with Owner-Operator Felipe Sanchez and his dispatcher, Sam Plafcan, to explore what makes a strong driver–dispatcher relationship at Oakley Trucking. Felipe shares his journey from growing up in Panama to moving to New York and Atlanta, working 15 years in warehouses, and finally becoming an owner-operator during the pandemic. Sam discusses his journey from farming and hauling grain to dispatch, including learning equipment in the shop and managing 30–40 different driver personalities. Together, they tackle real-world challenges such as Atlanta traffic, short runs, tight customer hours, and planning loads to meet weekly mileage goals. The key takeaways are the importance of communication, mutual respect, and trust in the process: drivers must speak up without being disrespectful, dispatch has to understand what happens on the road, and both sides share responsibility in turning “bad days” into strong weeks. The episode also touches on Felipe’s family life, his pride in his Panamanian roots, and why he feels Oakley’s culture, organization, and customer service help motivated owner operators succeed. Key topics in today’s conversation include: Fuel Discounts, Transflo App, And Company Party Details (0:12) Felipe’s Journey From Panama to New York and Atlanta (5:28) Sam’s Background, Farming, and Path to Oakley Dispatch (8:00) Learning Trailers in the Shop Before Dispatching (9:07) Early Years of Trucking: Warehouse Work to CDL School in 2020 (10:22) How the Driver–Dispatcher Relationship Works at Oakley (13:59) Trusting the Process and Making Up for Short Runs (15:10) Communication, Respect, and Handling Frustration (18:11) Managing 30–40 Driver Personalities as a Dispatcher (21:08) Safety, Dump Trailers, And Never Getting Too Comfortable (27:01) Planning Loads, Hours, and Customer Cutoff Times (29:22) Life and Family Culture In Panama, and Moving for Opportunity (31:54) Final Thoughts and Takeaways (36:02) Oakley Trucking is a family-owned and operated trucking company headquartered in North Little Rock, Arkansas. For more information, check out our show website: podcast.bruceoakley.com . Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
This week, Veteran owner-operator Scott Erickson joins the Oakley Podcast to share his 44-year journey in trucking, from falling in love with big rigs as a kid to running his own authority, losing everything when a family member stole his wife’s lucrative business, and rebuilding life on a small Kansas farm. He talks about transitioning from reefer to Oakley’s hopper division, why bulk work, though more exhausting, feels more meaningful, and how mental health challenges and isolation on the road have affected him and other drivers. Scott also tells the wild story of trading in a paid-for Peterbilt for a “deal of a lifetime” 389 that immediately blew up, only to receive a full in-frame at no cost. Through it all, he emphasizes resilience, the importance of family support, realistic expectations about owner-operator finances, and why he has no plans to ever retire from the job he loves. Key topics in today’s conversation include: Welcome to Today’s Episode with Scott Erickson (0:54) Life On a 20-Acre Kansas Farm And Stocked Fishing Lake (5:40) How Childhood Awe of Trucks Led Scott to Trucking (6:48) Buying First Truck, Own Authority, and Flatbed Hustle (9:19) The Family Business Story: Wholesale Food Company Background (13:34) Discovering The Warehouse Emptied and Business Stolen (15:04) Legal Battle With Sister-In-Law and Losing Everything in Court (19:10) Returning to Owner Operator, Reefer Carrier, and Coming To Oakley (21:33) Finally Calling Oakley Recruiting and Making the Move (24:01) Mental Health on the Road and Losing Friends to Suicide (26:54) Deciding To Replace A Paid-Off 2022 Peterbilt 579 (32:07) Full In-Frame Overhaul At No Cost And Picking Up The Truck (38:13) Why Trucking Still Provides A Good Living And Life Satisfaction (42:03) Fuel Prices, Surcharges, And Understanding Owner Operator Economics (45:46) Scott’s Love For Trucking And No Plans To Retire (46:46) Oakley Trucking is a family-owned and operated trucking company headquartered in North Little Rock, Arkansas. For more information, check out our show website: podcast.bruceoakley.com . Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
This week on the Oakley Podcast , Jeremy Kellett sits down with Oakley owner-operator David Platter to talk about his 36-year trucking journey, from starting with a chauffeur’s license and running local loads in Colorado to becoming a successful owner-operator at Oakley. David shares how he and his wife manage the financial side of the business, including his “a third, a third, a third” rule for money management, and why he believes in buying new trucks and planning for taxes. They discuss the realities of life on the road, including missing family, dealing with parking shortages, staying safe in traffic, and maintaining professionalism and customer service with every load. David opens up about a health scare that turned out to be low testosterone and encourages drivers to take their health seriously. He also tells a remarkable story from his youth about discovering bags of buried cash and doing the right thing by turning it in. Throughout the conversation, David highlights the importance of supportive family, camaraderie among Oakley drivers, and taking pride in being a professional truck driver. Key topics in today’s conversation include: Welcome to Today’s Episode with David Platter (0:45) David’s Move from Colorado to Branson and Overview of His Family (5:21) How David Got Into Trucking and His First Job With Lopno Foods (9:41) Explaining the “Third and Third and Third” Money Management Rule (14:40) Daily Realities, Road Safety, and Importance of Following Distance (17:18) Customer Service Mindset and Representing Yourself and Oakley (20:24) Parking Struggles, Paid Parking Frustrations, and Trip Planning (25:20) Spending Discipline, Eating on the Road, and Controlling Costs (29:09) Why Drivers Must Take Health Seriously and Not “Tough It Out” (31:13) Fighting the Trucker Stigma and How Some Drivers Hurt the Image (33:24) Digging in the Yard and Discovering Trash Bags Full of Money (35:47) Reflections on Doing the Right Thing as a 19-Year-Old (41:28) Shoutouts to Fellow Oakley Drivers and Value of Driver Camaraderie (42:27) Final Thoughts and Takeaways (47:35) Oakley Trucking is a family-owned and operated trucking company headquartered in North Little Rock, Arkansas. For more information, check out our show website: podcast.bruceoakley.com . Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
This week on the Oakley Podcast , Jeremy Kellett talks with recruiter Dustin Eagle and new (and returning) owner-operators Brandon Childress and John Ostransky about Oakley Trucking’s recruiting and orientation process. They cover how referrals and recruiting cards bring in quality owner-operators, why it took John nearly two years to make the move, and why Brandon left Oakley, regretted it, and ultimately came back. The conversation walks through the four-day orientation, hands-on training with experienced drivers, strict but professional standards, and the importance of honesty, follow-through, and staying in touch with recruits. Key takeaways for listeners are that Oakley focuses on long-term relationships, clear expectations, and doing the hard work up front so that starting and succeeding at Oakley is smoother and more rewarding in the long run. Key topics in today’s conversation include: Welcome to Today’s Episode with Brandon and John (0:42) Need for Owner Operators and Recruiting Cards Explained (1:40) Introducing Dustin, Brandon, and John Fresh Out of Orientation (4:10) Why Brandon First Left Oakley and Why He Regrets It (5:32) How John Heard About Oakley Through a Friend (9:15) Staying in Contact During a Two Year Recruiting Process (12:00) Overcoming Pride and Returning After Leaving a Company (15:47) Comparing Oakley’s Recruiting to Other Trucking Companies (18:10) Why Oakley Requires Photos and Detailed Truck Info (20:35) Orientation Check-In, Inspection, and First Day Flow (22:29) Feeling Welcomed and Supported During Orientation (24:34) Is a Four Day Orientation Too Long? Drivers Weigh In (26:52) How Oakley’s Hands-On Trainer Program Works (28:05) Advice for Drivers on the Fence About Coming to Oakley (30:35) Why Oakley Front-Loads the Paperwork and Hard Work (32:20) Final Thoughts and Promoting Good Trucking (34:51) Oakley Trucking is a family-owned and operated trucking company headquartered in North Little Rock, Arkansas. For more information, check out our show website: podcast.bruceoakley.com . Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
This week on the Oakley Podcast , Jeremy Kellett talks sits down with Todd Venable, General Manager at MHC Kenworth in Little Rock, to break down the current truck market, from how COVID, fuel prices, interest rates, and freight rates have impacted new and used truck values to why now may be a better time to trade than a year ago. They cover the Kenworth order board and pent-up demand, owner-operators tied to strong carriers versus independents struggling with freight and fuel, and how being leased to a company like Oakley helps with financing approvals. Todd explains the upcoming 2027 EPA emissions changes, new technology in trucks (safety systems, digital dashes, video mirrors), and the importance of dealer training and communication. They also dive into warranties and extended coverage, modern maintenance intervals, common mistakes when spec’ing a truck (especially PTO capability), the appeal of models like the W900 and T880, and how MHC, as a family-owned dealer group, is investing for the future while supporting Oakley’s owner-operators. Key topics in today’s conversation include: Welcome to Today’s Episode with Todd Venable (0:43) State of the Truck Market, Order Board, and Demand (3:50) New Truck Orders, Fleets vs Owner-Operators, and Pent-Up Demand (5:28) Trading Out of High-Payment Trucks and Used Market Recovery (9:54) Independent Owner-Operators vs Leased-On with a Carrier (11:19) Financing Realities, Credit, Down Payments, and Lender Options (15:20) 2027 EPA Emissions Changes and What They Mean (18:26) Cummins Gas Medium-Duty Engines and Technology Shifts (21:19) Favorite and Most Hated New Safety Tech (Bendix Wingman, Alerts) (24:40) Warranties, Real-World Warranty Wins, and Why They Matter (29:08) Spec’ing a Truck: Common Mistakes and Factory Options (35:09) Making Spec’ing Less Intimidating with Line-By-Line Reviews (38:23) Best-Selling Kenworth Models: W900, T880, and Market Favorites (42:38) Future of MHC Kenworth, Alternative Powertrains, and Investment (46:07) How Oakley Owner-Operators Should Approach MHC and Contacts (51:43) Final Thoughts and Takeaways (52:12) Oakley Trucking is a family-owned and operated trucking company headquartered in North Little Rock, Arkansas. For more information, check out our show website: podcast.bruceoakley.com . Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
This week on the Oakley Podcast , Jeremy Kellett talks with Bryan “Bossman” Martin of 4 State Trucks and Chrome Shop Mafia to talk all things custom rigs, chrome, and the state of the trucking industry. Bryan shares highlights from their massive biennial truck show, including 600+ trucks, a packed convoy, and a popular “social media row” of trucking influencers. They dive into current customization trends like LED “watermelon” lights, underglow, bumpers, visors, stacks, fenders, and custom metal fabrication work that solves real storage and usability problems for drivers. The conversation also explores the challenges of attracting younger drivers to trucking, the impact of regulations and congestion, and why both believe the industry is poised to rebound despite current headwinds. Bryan closes by outlining Four State’s growth through authorized dealers, a new podcast, and their powerful new app, while Jeremy connects it all back to Oakley’s own truck show and commitment to supporting owner operators. Key topics in today’s conversation include: Welcome to Today’s Show with Bryan “Bossman” Martin (0:42) Shout Outs to Sponsors and 100k YouTube Subscribers Milestone (1:40) Recap of 4 State Trucks 2025 Truck Show and Atmosphere (5:13) State of Trucking, “Chrome Season,” and Economic Outlook (9:39) Must-Have Chrome: Bumpers, Visors, Stacks, Fenders, and Lighting (11:20) Comfort Upgrades and Why Seats Are a Big Investment (15:49) Challenges With Newer Truck Dash Designs and Interior Chrome (17:47) Smart Storage Solutions for Sleepers, Boxes, and Deck Plates (20:17) Are Young Drivers Getting Into Trucking? Generational Trends (23:53) Shortage of Technicians and Other Trucking-Related Careers (26:43) Why Trucking Is Still a Rewarding, Freedom-Filled Career Path (29:18) 4 State’s Expansion With Authorized Dealers Across North America (30:53) Good Ideas, Bad Ideas, and Learning From Misses (35:26) 4 State Trucks Mobile App Features and Fast Parts Search (37:40) Oakley’s October Truck Show and Highly Customized Rigs (40:25) Final Thoughts and Takeaways (41:56) Oakley Trucking is a family-owned and operated trucking company headquartered in North Little Rock, Arkansas. For more information, check out our show website: podcast.bruceoakley.com . Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
This week on the Oakley Podcast , Jeremy Kellett takes the Oakley Podcast on the road to the Port 33 terminal in Catoosa, Oklahoma to introduce listeners to dispatchers Bennett Potter and Ray Steuber. They share their backgrounds from Bennett’s path through the Army and graphic design into trucking, to Ray’s move from Wisconsin and prior experience dispatching frack sand, as well as their personal lives, hobbies like pickleball, fishing, and trading cards, and what their weekends look like. The conversation dives into the realities of dispatching at Oakley: managing 40–50 drivers each, constant phone calls, planning loads around hours of service, emphasizing safety at dump sites, and balancing regulations with the human limits of fatigue. They discuss building trust and communication with drivers, why some owner operators leave (often pay expectations and home time), and how Oakley’s higher standards and dependable drivers make the job rewarding. The key takeaway for listeners is a clearer picture of the people and pressures behind the scenes in dispatch, and how much effort goes into keeping drivers safe, productive, and supported. Key topics in today’s conversation include: Welcome to Today’s Episode with Bennett and Ray (0:42) Why Listeners Want to Meet Oakley Employees (4:15) Bennett and Ray’s Hobbies and Life Outside of Oakley (8:07) Daily Responsibilities of Oakley Dispatchers and Planning Loads (11:23) Oakley Standards, Quality of Trucks, and Dependable Drivers (13:33) Balancing Legal Hours With Human Fatigue and Real World Limits (16:22) Different Work Preferences for Staying Out vs Going Home Weekends (18:44) High Call Volume, Prioritizing Emergencies, and Juggling Problems (0:21:28) Future at Oakley, Growth Plans, and Keeping Drivers Busy (23:00) Human Side of Dispatchers and Appreciation for Their Work (23:52) Final Thoughts and Takeaways (25:13) Oakley Trucking is a family-owned and operated trucking company headquartered in North Little Rock, Arkansas. For more information, check out our show website: podcast.bruceoakley.com . Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
This week on the Oakley Podcast , Jeremy Kellett takes the Oakley Podcast on the road to Oakley’s Port 33 terminal in Catoosa, Oklahoma, to introduce dispatcher team members Ethan Homberger and Jeremiah Sheneman. They share their backgrounds, Ethan from box trucks and a side hustle flipping jet skis, Jeremiah from hot shot trucking and a 40,000‑acre farm, and talk about transitioning into dispatch at Oakley. The conversation covers building trust with owner-operators, balancing the needs of customers, drivers, and Bruce Oakley, the realities of over-the-road work versus home-time expectations, and why some drivers succeed while others struggle. Key takeaways for listeners are the importance of communication and realistic expectations, how much dispatchers genuinely care about solving drivers’ problems, and why Ethan and Jeremiah see Oakley as a family-oriented, high-opportunity place for committed owner-operators. Don’t miss this look at trucking from the dispatcher perspective! Key topics in today’s conversation include: Welcome to Today’s Episode from Port 33 (0:42) Talking Through the Importance of Port 33 (3:24) Ethan Introduces Himself and Jet Ski Flipping Side Hustle (4:38) Jeremiah’s Background in Hot Shots and 40,000-Acre Farm (8:41) Starting in Dispatch and Learning to Solve Driver Problems (10:20) Building Trust With Owner Operators and Early Challenges (12:21) Meetings, Oakley Standard, and Need For More Hopper Drivers (15:15) Why Some Drivers Succeed or Struggle Based on Work Habits (16:30) Balancing Home Time, Customer Needs, and Expectations (18:01) Recruiting Mindset at Port 33 and Selling the Oakley Way (20:21) The Human Side of Dispatch, and Closing Remarks (22:23) Oakley Trucking is a family-owned and operated trucking company headquartered in North Little Rock, Arkansas. For more information, check out our show website: podcast.bruceoakley.com . Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Ranking source
Apple Podcasts rankings via the Mato Topic Intelligence Platform.
Observed September 12, 2026. Cached outside the daily freshness window; the positions keep the date they were taken on.
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