TT Podcasts: RoadSigns Archive
Episode 110: What Is the Proper Approach to EV Truck Repair and Maintenance?
UPS' Anthony Marshall is no stranger to electric and alternative-fuel vehicles. Over the course of Marshall's tenure at UPS, the company has invested more than $1 billion in alternative fuels and advanced-technology vehicles, amounting to more than 1,000 electric vehicles. Marshall has tested and tested again the best approach to the repair and maintenance of electric vehicles. So, what's the gold standard for an efficient and effective EV maintenance cycle? Is there one? Let's find out with the vice president of maintenance and engineering for UPS, Anthony Marshall. Tune in above or by going to RoadSigns.ttnews.com.
Roadshow Episode 13: Brian Antonellis
Fleet Advantage’s Brian Antonellis has all the answers; in fact, companies like Coca-Cola and Pepsi leaned on him for fleet management solutions, overseeing 102 locations, 29 supervisors, 350 technicians and 16,500 assets. Today, he travels across America advising the country’s biggest trucking fleets, delivering programs and processes that maximize effectiveness. He holds a record of successfully managing large-scale, complex, high-quality and cost-effective fleet programs. So, what management tips and tricks can you learn from him? Listen to this interview and find out. Tune in above or by going to RoadSigns.ttnews.com.
Episode 109: How Is Predictive Analytics Streamlining Truck Maintenance?
Truck maintenance parts and labor costs increased 13% year-over-year in Q4 2022, according to a recent report by ATA TMC and Decisiv. The costly increase left fleets wondering — how can we prevent expensive truck repairs? Can historical data help reduce maintenance guesswork? How can my technicians react to fixes in a timely way? In this episode, we find answers with Kayne Grau, CEO of Uptake, a service directed to help companies translate underutilized data into insights that make industrial operations smarter and more efficient. Tune in above or by going to RoadSigns.ttnews.com.
Roadshow Episode 12: Todd Cotier
Since childhood, Todd Cotier has had an eye for detail. He would spend hours after school and on weekends greasing backhoes and checking tires on dump trucks for his family’s construction business. Today, he brings the same spirit of quality and responsibility to the big stage as the new TMC chairman. In this episode we ask, how will Todd's spirit differentiate him from past chairmen? And, how will this "attention to detail" bring change to maintenance practices and technician recruitment models? Join us for this conversation from the floor of TMC's Annual Meeting to find out. Tune in above or by going to RoadSigns.ttnews.com.
Episode 108: How Can Carriers Squeeze More Fuel Efficiency Out of Today’s Trucks?
On the road, he is known as a professional driver with over a million miles. At Volvo, he is the star of the "No Compromise" video series which features him interacting with other drivers on truck design to optimize their driving experience. Joel Morrow, chief executive officer for Alpha Drivers Testing & Consulting traveled across America asking one simple question: What if a trucker designed a truck? In this episode, we find out. Tune in above or by going to RoadSigns.ttnews.com.
Episode 107: What's Under the EV Hood?
Has the trucking industry finally found its very own white knight? And, is it electric trucks? Although electric trucks have a higher price tag than their diesel counterparts, the return on investment is high. With a battery-powered engine, fewer moving parts, and essentially zero fuel, electric truck adopters are not only decreasing their emission levels but saving on maintenance and fuel costs. As the EV pros continue to outweigh the cons, it's time for the trucking industry to brace itself for a high-voltage transformation. In this episode, Steve Slesinski, director of global product planning for Dana Inc., and Trent Broberg, CEO of the vehicle transport firm Acertus, pop the EV hood and reveal new, easier ways to repair, prepare and invest in electric trucks. Tune in above or by going to RoadSigns.ttnews.com.
Episode 106: Can Better Visibility Alleviate the Truck Parking Problem?
Our highways allow commercial vehicles to move, but what infrastructure is in place when they need to stop, and their drivers need to safely rest? The need for ample and safe parking for large semi-trucks could generate the next great business idea. But, as a business problem, the issue is complex: Parking requires real estate, investment and a will to work through red tape. Host Seth Clevenger sits down with Evan Shelley, an entrepreneur with a real estate background and some very good ideas on how to approach this vexing issue. The co-founder and CEO of TruckParkingClub.com thinks that tapping into information technology and available land could create a new parking landscape. Will it? Budding entrepreneurs, truck stop owners, fleet administrators and truck drivers will all find Shelley's words worth stopping for. Tune in above or by going to RoadSigns.ttnews.com.
Episode 105: How Can the Trucking Industry Better Utilize Diagnostic Technology?
Your modern trucks are telling you when they are ailing. Your in-house technicians know how to read the symptoms and make the fixes. But you still seem to have many diagnostic-related headaches. Before you head for the office aspirin cabinet, check out OnLine Transport Inc. VP of Safety and Maintenance Randy Obermeyer's treatment plan that starts at the dealer and can scale to shops across North America. He talks to our Michael Freeze about how to handle conversations with out-of-house technicians, how to understand the data coming into uptime centers, and how to rethink treatment plan timing. Tune in above or by going to RoadSigns.ttnews.com.
Episode 104: Where Do Autonomous Trucks Fit Into Trucking’s Future? Part 3
Did you know? With the power of driverless technology, a 50,000-pound semi-truck can stop in less than a tenth of a second. Autonomous technology also halts the burden of driver turnover, hours-of-service regulations and unreliable deliveries. Yet, some industry folks are still asking, what are the benefits of driverless cars and trucks? To weigh the pros and cons of autonomous technology, we bring in one of the autonomous vehicle industry’s true pioneers, Don Burnette. With more than 10 years' experience working on self-driving software development, he has tested the whole autonomous tech stack — from wheels and trailer sensors to asset utilization and 24/7 delivery. Tune in above or by going to RoadSigns.ttnews.com.
Episode 103: Where Do Autonomous Trucks Fit Into Trucking’s Future? Part 2
Are you asking yourself: Will autonomous truck technology really improve efficiency in the transportation industry? Will self-driving trucks really take over and replace truck drivers? Let's ask a leading expert on autonomous trucking, Peter Vaughan Schmidt, CEO of Torc Robotics. With his experience in this field, he has a keen understanding of the potential that autonomous technology holds for freight transportation. He also knows the myths and misconceptions about autonomous trucking. In this episode, he sets the record straight and provides a guide to realign your business with the true autonomous reality. Tune in above or by going to RoadSigns.ttnews.com.
Episode 102: Where Do Autonomous Trucks Fit Into Trucking’s Future?
Autonomous trucks are still in the early days. Tech companies, startups and companies like Daimler, TuSimple, Paccar, Aurora, Waymo and Volvo continue to invest, making this transformative technology a reality. For this technology to succeed, however, it must integrate into real-world freight operations. In this episode, host Seth Clevenger wonders how autonomous trucks can fit into the freight transportation industry? What are the potential use cases and business models for self-driving commercial vehicles? To find answers, we step into Waabi World with Waabi's chief commercial officer, Vivian Sun, and later we hear from autonomous vehicle pioneer Jan Becker, CEO and co-founder of Apex.ai. Tune in above or by going to RoadSigns.ttnews.com.
Episode 101: 2023 Year-In-Preview
C.H. Robinson CEO steps down, potential recession looms, and House Republicans focus on an in-depth examination of the Biden administration’s infrastructure funding priorities. With uncertainty in the air, what is the outlook for trucking in 2023? How will the industry change with the current government, economic and business trends? To guide you through this spate of trucking news, host Michael Freeze turns to the experts — Transport Topics' Congressional Reporter Eugene Mulero and Business Reporter Connor Wolf. Tune in above or by going to RoadSigns.ttnews.com.
Episode 100: Celebrating 100 Episodes of RoadSigns; Where Is Trucking Headed?
One hundred episodes. Over 100 guests. And, most importantly, 100 critical trucking questions ... answered. The first episode of RoadSigns asked, "Autonomous: Who's Behind the Wheel of Tomorrow?" To answer, Seth Clevenger brought in Alex Rodrigues of Embark who was just starting off in the autonomous trucking sector. Two rookies tackling the biggest question of their time and setting the stage for the future. Now, four years later, we've acquired an entire roster of extraordinary guests in tech, autonomous trucking, workforce development and trucking equipment, along with an irreplaceable co-host, Michael Freeze. For the next 30 minutes, see where trucking was in 2018, where it's going in 2023, and how the RoadSigns podcast has enjoyed every minute in between — helping you, our listeners, navigate the trucking road ahead. Tune in above or by going to RoadSigns.ttnews.com.
Roadshow Episode 11: Rahmel Wattley
"I always tell people, driving a truck is either for you, or it is not for you. You either have it, or you don’t have it.” In 2002, Rahmel Wattley realized driving a truck wasn't for him. Trucking, however, was. He started dispatching and quickly climbed the corporate ladder. Then, he asked himself, "what if I started my own company?" The trucking business guru answered with a driver-staffing company whose first-year sales revenues exceeded $1.2 million. Now, this trucking-obsessed entrepreneur hosts one of the industry's most influential podcasts – and audiences can't wait to hear the lessons in each episode. What keeps the successes coming? What lessons can he give those who want to run trucking businesses? And what does his former rap career have to do with any of it? Let him tell you. Tune in above or by going to RoadSigns.ttnews.com.
Episode 99: Why Should the Trucking Industry Care About Cybersecurity?
On Feb. 17, 2020, a privately owned transportation and supply chain management company was attacked by malware. The company was a notable trucking industry for-hire company player with a strong IT team and plentiful resources. And, yet, even this well-oiled company was not cyberattack-proof. If cybersecurity threats can take down these digital systems, what will they do to yours? Can you prepare? In this episode, host Michael Freeze relays the company story and discusses strategies that need to be implemented to avoid cyberattacks. To crystallize the conversation, he brings in a 30-year veteran of automotive cybersecurity, vehicle electronics and diagnostics systems. Tune in above or by going to RoadSigns.ttnews.com.
Episode 98: What Are Trucking Professionals Most Thankful For?
Meet the truck-driver-turned-writer whose book, "Overcoming Challenge: The Tar-Billy Way," is helping thousands of everyday people lead with positivity. Then, hear from the philanthropist whose truck-driver-focused charity seeks to ensure that drivers who need help, get it. In this inspirational episode of RoadSigns, Ernest Hamilton and Etienne Hightower will remind you that kindness is all around — and trucking is a springboard for it. Tune in above or by going to RoadSigns.ttnews.com.
Roadshow Episode 10: Randy Obermeyer
Randy Obermeyer is flipping the script on finding new diesel technicians. The newest Technology and Maintenance Council chair knows that being a truck mechanic is much more than a dirty job. Today, it requires a deep understanding of diagnostics, electric truck software, circuit boards, telematics and control modules. He also knows this multi-faceted type of talent is hard to come by, but for the people with that talent, he wagers, the job is worth it. Here's a look at the man who is reinventing technician recruiting. Tune in above or by going to RoadSigns.ttnews.com.
Episode 97: Inside the List: How TT’s Top 50 Global Freight Companies Are Preparing for an Uncertain Future
After spending the past two years contending with supply chain disruptions and severe port congestion, the world’s largest freight transportation providers now face high inflation and economic uncertainty heading into 2023. In this episode we examine how international shippers and their freight transportation providers have been re-evaluating their supply chains and preparing for an uncertain future. Tune in above or by going to RoadSigns.ttnews.com.
Episode 96: How Can ADAS Technology Raise the Bar for Safety in Trucking?
The latest generation of advanced driver-assist systems are introducing new features to further enhance safety in the trucking industry. But these safety gains can only be realized if fleets choose to adopt these systems and professional drivers accept the technology. Will the trucking industry embrace these next-generation driver-assist capabilities? ZF’s Julien Plenchette thinks the answer is yes. And he shows us how today’s ADAS technologies can support drivers and make them feel better behind the wheel in this special episode of RoadSigns. Tune in above or by going to RoadSigns.ttnews.com.
Episode 95: What Impact Will the 2022 Midterms Have on the Trucking Industry?
With midterm elections season in full swing, both parties are promoting infrastructure proposals as they each pursue control of Congress. On one side of the aisle, Democrats are reminding voters of the passed infrastructure bill, supply chain semiconductor bill and COVID-19 relief. On the other side, Republicans are telling voters that they will reduce inflation and supply chain bottlenecks, and enhance supply chain connectivity. So, what does this fight for chambers mean for the trucking industry? Is there a side that will solve the lingering supply chain issues? Or, will it have to be a bipartisan effort? Find out with TT's government expert, Eugene Mulero, as he unveils the competitive battle happening on the Hill. Tune in above or by going to RoadSigns.ttnews.com.
TT Roadshow: Episode Nine: Meet Larry Fowler
Meet Larry Fowler, a man whose "focus on the process" makes him one of the nation's top heavy-duty technician trainers and good inspiration for anyone struggling to create the best possible shop environment. Fowler teaches technicians how to cultivate strong troubleshooting skills and gives maintenance bay managers pragmatic advice for managing their shops, their people and third-party services. In this episode, recorded at TMCSuperTech 2022, the Cox Automotive maintenance excellence manager shares those practices with you. Tune in above or by going to RoadSigns.ttnews.com.
Episode 94: How Can Companies Properly Winterize their Fleets?
Winter is coming. Fleet owners know that a little bit of gas tank condensation is no big deal in summer months, but come December, this means breakdowns. This is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to winterizing your fleet. So what is your preventive maintenance plan for the upcoming winter season? How can you plan and avoid critical hiccups that wouldn't surface in the warmer months? This episode provides a how-to winterizing guide featuring two guys who never stop thinking of the cold — Bill Lindsay, director of fleet operations at Clean Harbors, and Brian Antonellis, senior vice President of fleet operations at Fleet Advantage. Tune in above or by going to RoadSigns.ttnews.com.
Episode 93: What Are Fleets Doing to Overcome Ongoing Challenges in Driver Recruitment and Retention?
80,000 drivers. Trucking companies say they need that many drivers this year to keep up with demand. But, despite increases in pay and recruitment budgets, these companies are worried that 80,000 is an impossible goal. So, what else can you do? In this episode, Tamara Jalving, VP of safety and talent acquisition at Yellow, helps us see solutions through fleet eyes, while Connor Wolf, TT's resident expert, gives us the broader industry view. Tune in above or by going to RoadSigns.ttnews.com.
TT Roadshow: Episode Eight
When will supply chain issues end? The sheer number of recent seismic events has put enormous strain on all of us who need things. The global food shortages, skyrocketing commodity prices and severed supply lines have made modern life difficult. But when you run a business whose core focus is keeping goods moving, the strain of backlogs and breakdowns might just break you. In this episode, host Seth Clevenger talks with three tech experts who make it their mission to reduce that despair. They think the right combination of monitoring and data connection tools will help you reduce waste, improve efficiency and gain more visibility — and a bit more control. Hear what they tell Seth at the Trimble Conference and why it can help you start to make sense of the chaos and, even locate some fast fixes. Tune in above or by going to RoadSigns.ttnews.com.
Episode 92: Inside The List: Top 100 Private Carriers
Private carriers play a pivotal role in freight transportation across many sectors of the economy. Nowhere is that fact clearer than in the food service sector. During the past year, grocery chains, food service distributors and beverage delivery fleets grew in shipping prowess and power units. What factors contributed to this growth? What does this reveal about the supply chain in 2022? And what is happening with private fleets in other key industries? In this special edition of RoadSigns, hosts Seth Clevenger and Mike Freeze explore those questions as they provide an inside look at Transport Topics’ 2022 Top 100 Private Carriers list. Tune in above or by going to RoadSigns.ttnews.com.
Episode 91: How Will the Rise of Smart Trailers Change Fleet Management?
Siamak Azmoudeh knows you and your drivers don't want to waste time finding the right trailer. And he knows your fleet needs to maximize trailer utilization to get the most out of those assets. In this episode, Azmoudeh, vice president of product life cycle management and business development at SkyBitz, discusses the rise of the smart trailer and why the industry standard is shifting toward more sensors, more data and more business intelligence. In this conversation with RoadSigns host Seth Clevenger, Azmoudeh explains the evolution of trailer telematics and how to set metrics-driven goals for a more profitable future. Tune in above or by going to RoadSigns.ttnews.com.
Episode 90: What Will the Future of EV Recharging Infrastructure Look Like?
Jason Gies knows that you don’t want your new electric medium-duty truck to run out of juice just because your route took it out of range distance. So he’s talking to truck stop operators, shippers, regulators, policymakers and people at the local power company to help architect a sustainable charging infrastructure — one that makes 600-kilowatt battery charging just as easy as plugging in that Chevy Volt. In this episode, RoadSigns’ Mike Freeze gets the buzzy Gies, Navistar's VP of eMobility, to spill the tea on everything from how fleets are charging now to how far policymakers are willing to go to up the public charging game. Tune in above or by going to RoadSigns.ttnews.com
Episode 89: Roundabout — How Is the Worker Shortage Affecting the Trucking Industry This Year?
With U.S. unemployment at 3.6%, some are left wondering — is the "labor shortage" an exaggeration? What logical reason is there for a labor shortage? For trucking, there are many reasons. In this special roundabout episode, host Michael Freeze looks back on the first half of 2022 and unveils why trucking companies are still struggling to find the workers they need to be successful. Tune in above or by going to RoadSigns.ttnews.com
Episode 88: How Can 3PLs Optimize Capacity and Pricing?
Are supply chain woes being exaggerated? Not if you ask transportation industry experts. Thanks to the coronavirus pandemic, inflation, surging fuel prices and the ongoing war in Ukraine, the logistics environment has been extremely volatile and customer management is tricky at best. In this episode, we talk to 3PL problem-solvers who make it their mission to stabilize this volatile environment with improved intelligence on freight pricing and capacity — using technology solutions to improve their customer competitiveness. Tune in above or by going to RoadSigns.TTNews.com.
Episode 87: Inside Transport Topics' Top 100 For-Hire Carriers List
Do you ever wonder what it takes for a trucking company to rise to the top? Or what successful operations look like from the inside? The Transport Topics Top 100 For-Hire Carriers list ranks the largest players in the trucking industry. In this episode, the makers of this year’s Top 100 list uncover the roots of top-player revenue and success – and what it means for the supply chain. Tune in above or by going to RoadSigns.TTNews.com.
Episode 86: How Can Onboarding Processes Help Retain Drivers?
Turnover for a single driver can cost trucking businesses up to $15,000 in replacement costs. Even worse, only 35% of new drivers make it through the first 90 days. In this episode we ask, how can trucking companies persuade new drivers to stay? What onboarding practices actually work? For answers, host Mike Freeze brings in onboarding expert Anthony Pellegrino, president and chief operations officer at Ag Energy Transport. Tune in above or by going to RoadSigns.TTNews.com.
Episode 85: How Are Electric Truck Manufacturers Handling the Future of Equipment Maintenance?
The truck maintenance bay is about to get a ... shock. Now that the industry has accepted an EV reality and fleets plan for a comprehensive shift to the new fueling technology, questions pile up concerning the new maintenance shop: What does the EV maintenance cycle look like? How are technicians being trained to repair these new machines? For answers, host Michael Freeze turns to one of the youngest CEOs of a publicly traded company, Thomas Healy, founder of Hyliion, and Tom Lincoln, National Field Sales and Service Manager at Dana. Tune in above or by going to RoadSigns.TTNews.com.
Episode 84: How Are Fleets Considering Insurance Coverage?
According to the latest American Transportation Research Institute report, 90% of carriers saw their insurance premiums increase between 2018 and 2020, with per-mile costs jumping from 59 cents to 87 cents. As a fleet owner, high rates put a squeeze on operational costs, profits and employee salaries. So, what can fleets do to compete against insurance costs? Can new technology provide relief to rising premiums? In this episode, host Michael Freeze finds answers with guests Jane Jazrawy, CEO of Carriers Edge, and David Berno, Chief Sales Officer at Hub International. Tune in above or by going to RoadSigns.TTNews.com.
Episode 83: How Will the EPA’s Recommended NOx Emissions Rule Affect the Trucking Industry?
The new proposed NOx standard, announced March 28 of this year, is set to reduce emissions of smog- and soot-forming nitrogen oxides from heavy-duty gasoline and diesel engines by 60%. Sounds great, right? Not quite. Truck manufacturers are now burdened to meet the rule stipulations. In this episode, host Michael Freeze asks, what are the realities and challenges of the NOx ruling? And, how is this ultimately leading to the electric future? To get answers, we bring in Glen Kedzie, energy and environmental counsel for American Trucking Associations, and Eric Miller, government reporter at Transport Topics. Tune in above or by going to RoadSigns.TTNews.com.
Episode 82: How Will the EPA’s Recommended NOx Emissions Rule Affect the Trucking Industry?
More than ever before, shippers have been relying on the services of third-party logistics providers to navigate supply chain disruptions and scarce truck capacity. In this episode, we explore how 3PLs are working to resolve these historic challenges. Transport Topics' Seth Clevenger, managing editor of Features, and Marissa Gamache, Features coordinator, take you through the process of determining North America’s largest 3PLs in the expanded Transport Topics Top 100 Logistics Companies list. Tune in above or by going to RoadSigns.TTNews.com.
Episode 81: How are Tire Manufacturers Positioning Themselves in the Wave of New Trends and Technology?
Arguably the most important invention in modern times, the tire still has more future ahead of it. From smart tires with radio frequency identification and data tracking to enhanced inflation and pressure systems, manufacturers are discovering more ways to predict maintenance and communicate with the truck as a whole. With new tire technology rolling in, host Michael Freeze wonders, what does the future of tire maintenance look like? How will these trends coincide with other tech advances happening across the industry? To get answers, he sits down with Yokohama's Tom Clauer and Goodyear's Austin Crayne and Jessica Julian. Hear a snippet above, and get the full program by going to RoadSigns.TTNews.com.
Episode 80: How Are Industry Leaders Beginning to Address the Driver and Technician Shortage?
The lack of technicians and drivers is forcing industry recruiters to think outside the box — using new, different trucking tech to attract the younger generation. In this episode, host Michael Freeze asks, how do we get this generation in cabs and maintenance bays? What new, actionable plans are in place to grab hold of this age group? To get recruitment solutions, he sits down with Technology & Maintenance Council Chairman Randy Obermeyer and Brenda Neville, president and CEO of the Iowa Motor Truck Association. Hear a snippet above, and get the full program by going to RoadSigns.TTNews.com.
Episode 79: How Are Developers Paving the Way for Autonomous Trucking?
You’ve known that self-driving trucks are coming at some point in the future. You sense the optimism of developers and engineers, but you still wonder about how they will solve the really complex problems associated with freight transportation and logistics. This episode gives you a status report. It looks at what we know and what we’re still learning about autonomous vehicle technology. It surveys the on-road test landscape and gives you an idea of what is working and not working with today’s technology. With the help of Robert Brown, chief strategy officer at Spartan Radar, and Charlie Jatt, head of commercialization for the autonomous trucking division at Waymo, we assess real-world adoption strategies. Hear a snippet above, and get the full program by going to RoadSigns.TTNews.com.
The interview with Waymo's Charlie Jatt was originally featured in En (Gauge): The Maintenance Learning Sessions, the latest program in the quarterly Transport Topics Magazine Event Series. To watch this driverless trucking expert discuss this technology on screen, visit the En(Gauge) replay here.
Episode 78: How are Fleets and Manufacturers Handling Equipment Maintenance and Trailer Efficiency?
These interviews were originally featured in En (Gauge): The Maintenance Learning Sessions put on by the quarterly Transport Topics Magazine Event Series. To watch these maintenance experts discuss emerging equipment trends on-screen, visit the En(Gauge) replay here.
Episode 77: How Are Logistics Providers Managing Supply Chain Disruptions?
“Supply-chain issues.” Whether you’re a carrier, shipper, 3PL, manufacturer, retailer or consumer, you’ve felt the ripple effect of ongoing supply chain disruptions. In addition to shortages of products, parts and materials, the freight transportation industry has been facing severe workforce constraints during the economic recovery from the pandemic. On top of that, the logistics sector is becoming more complex as demand increases for e-commerce fulfillment and reverse logistics services. So, how are third-party logistics companies meeting consumer demand in the midst of these industry shortages? To get answers, host Seth Clevenger speaks with Neil Shelton, chief strategy officer at GXO, and Cathy Roberson, research manager at the Reverse Logistics Association. Hear a snippet above, and get the full program by going to RoadSigns.TTNews.com.
Episode 76: What Did CES 2022 Tell Us About Autonomous and Electric Trucks?
How is cutting-edge technology making its way into the trucking industry? This question, among others, is what took host Seth Clevenger to CES in Las Vegas. The popular technology show known for weird gadgets and advanced robotics has turned its spotlight on something bigger – electric-powered and autonomous trucking. But what did these flashy exhibits tell us about trucking's future and the real-life application of these technologies? Find out as Seth sits down with Joe Adams, chief engineer at Kenworth Truck Co., and Cheng Lu, CEO of self-driving truck developer TuSimple. Hear a snippet above, and get the full program by going to RoadSigns.TTNews.com.
Episode 75: What’s in Store For the Trucking Industry in 2022?
Episode 74: Roundabout: 2021 Year in Review
According to McKinsey, the trucking industry is expected to recover from the effects of the pandemic fastest of all transportation modes. In this special 2021 Roundabout episode, we look back at how trucking not only worked to recover but also improve through the darkest of times, how innovators continued innovating, how food and water still made it to grocery store shelves, and how life-saving vaccines made it into arms nationwide. Tune in as host Michael Freeze looks back at challenges that made our industry wiser, finding better solutions to keep the world moving forward in 2022. Hear a snippet above, and get the full program by going to RoadSigns.TTNews.com.
Episode 73: Roundabout: 2021 Transport Topics Trucking's Frontline Heroes
Retired trucker Gene Woolsey doesn't think twice about driving into the middle of a historic storm to deliver basic supplies. And, when great storms bear down on his Louisiana community, trucking company head Cully Frisard stays in the danger zone and coordinates relief efforts. In this special episode of RoadSigns, host Mike Freeze hopes to discover what makes these do-gooders do so much good. What makes them tick? How do they understand chaos and respond so admirably? And what lessons can we learn from them? Hear a snippet above, and get the full program by going to RoadSigns.TTNews.com.
Episode 72: How Is Brake Technology Evolution Changing Fleets' Approach to Maintenance?
Did you ever wonder how they get big rigs to stop? All that weight transferred efficiently and effectively — defying Newton’s rules of inertia. Big rig braking is an engineering marvel whose greatest successes are … silent (because, well, everything stops). In this episode, RoadSigns host Michael Freeze finds out more about the advanced technology that halts 18-wheelers, no matter the weight, instantaneously. Whether you are a fleet manager, a trucking tech geek, or into cool engineering — this episode is for you. Hear a snippet above, and get the full program by going to RoadSigns.TTNews.com.
Episode 71: How Has Military Service Shaped the Veteran Experience in the Trucking Industry?
This year for Veterans Day, we revisit the sometimes invisible heroes – the ones who protect our country in combat, and those who keep our nation fed, clothed and vaccinated. Join us as host and Navy veteran Michael Freeze sits down with Army veterans James Rogers, owner of Spartan Direct Trucking Co. and 2020 Transport Topics Trucking's Frontline Hero, and John Baxter, equipment columnist. Hear a snippet above, and get the full program by going to RoadSigns.TTNews.com.
Episode 70: How Has Truck Leasing Benefited the Industry This Year?
Trucking managers have a lot on their plates. Keeping their business afloat is more difficult than ever. Exploring cost-saving practices has become part of their everyday operation. In this episode, host Michael Freeze asks, how are companies saving money by leasing trucks rather than owning? With continued industry obstacles, has truck leasing become more attractive to fleet owners? For answers, we speak with Jim Lager, senior vice president of Penske Truck Leasing, and Al Barner, senior vice president of strategic fleet solutions at Fleet Advantage. Hear a snippet above, and get the full program by going to RoadSigns.TTNews.com.
Episode 69: How Will the Trucking Industry Fill Its Auto Technician Gap and Attract Potential Workers?
Shortages, drivers, technicians, trucks, microchips. In this episode, we focus on technicians, and lack thereof. Research shows that 41% of technicians leave the industry within the first two years. Host Michael Freeze asks, how can technician recruiters and maintenance leaders decrease that percentage? What practices help retain and recruit quality technicians? In order to find the incentives that work we talked with Ana Salcido, technician recruitment manager for Navistar and Stacy Earnhardt, Technology & Maintenance Council Chairman. Hear a snippet above, and get the full program by going to RoadSigns.TTNews.com.
Episode 68: What Does It Take to Become an America's Road Team Captain?
The open road, the crisp air of the Appalachians, a sunset that seems to go for miles. Here, joy lives in rubber and thrives on pavement. Some who drive trucks feel it strongly. They seek that joy in every turn. Their job becomes their passion that drives them to excellence. And that excellence leads them to great reward. They are America's greatest drivers, the Road Team Captains. This episode is about those who fall passionately in love with trucks, featuring ABF driver Nate McCarty, former America's Road Team Captain, and Elisabeth Barna, COO and executive vice president for American Trucking Associations. Tune in and get ready for a good love story. Hear a snippet above, and get the full program by going to RoadSigns.TTNews.com.
Episode 67: How Can We Improve the Quality of Life for Truck Drivers?
If you ask 100 truck drivers what could make life better, you'll start seeing answers that all look the same — improvement on troubling health issues and education of emerging technologies. Drivers want to perform well, and feel good while doing it. So, how can the industry tackle both? Find out as we talk to Paul Beavers, chief technology officer at PCS Software, a leading AI-driven transportation management platform provider, and Dr. Bethany Dixon, owner of the Drivers Health Clinic, clinics conveniently located inside truck stops, bringing health care where the driver needs it the most. Hear a snippet above, and get the full program by going to RoadSigns.TTNews.com.
Episode 66: What Can Drivers and Fleets Do to Implement a Healthier Lifestyle on the Road?
Hauling freight in the middle of a heat wave is hard. But remembering to stay hydrated and healthy while working in those conditions can make all the difference. Fleet managers are finding that healthy, happy drivers are one of the keys to business success. This episode features a special guest who has overcome his own health problems and is now sharing his experiences to help professional drivers live healthier lifestyles out on the road. Stephen Kane, president and creator of Rolling Strong, explains that driver health starts with “learning about yourself and being vulnerable enough to listen to somebody that knows about health.” Hear a snippet above, and get the full program by going to RoadSigns.TTNews.com.
Episode 65: How Much Impact Does Driver Pay Have in Hiring Drivers?
You can attract potential employees by increasing pay, right? It's not always that easy. While fleet managers are offering higher pay rates, both new and experienced drivers want quality equipment and places to park. In this episode, we ask, how can fleet managers make their drivers feel more appreciated? And what else can fleets do to recruit and retain quality talent? To get answers, host Michael Freeze talks with founder and CEO of DriverReach, Jeremy Reymer. Hear a snippet above, and get the full program by going to RoadSigns.TTNews.com.
Episode 64: How Can Data Science Make Trucking Smarter and Safer?
Episode 63: Roundabout: 2021 Midyear Review
Could this be the trucking industry’s roaring '20s? Business is booming, thanks, in part, to a huge slew of new, innovative technologies finally coming online. Cold storage. Autonomous. Electric. Machine learning. The key descriptors once associated with a far-off future have, in six months, become integral to this phenomenal success. In this episode, we analyze this boom in all of its parts. And, along with host Mike Freeze, we begin to wonder what’s next? Will the boom continue? Hear a snippet above, and get the full program by going to RoadSigns.TTNews.com.
Episode 62: Tire Inflation Technology: TPMS or ATIS?
How do you care for your tires? In this episode, host Michael Freeze sets out to answer tire inflation questions all fleet owners should be asking to protect their tires and, essentially, their business. Like, what factors should fleets consider when investing in systems like tire pressure monitoring systems (TPMS) and automatic tire inflation systems (ATIS)? And where do these systems take the industry in the future, especially when talking about maintenance and fuel economy? To get answers we bring in Matt Wilson, General Manager of the Controls Business Unit & Trailer Commercial Vehicle Systems for Hendrickson, the leading global manufacturer and supplier of medium and heavy-duty tire pressure control systems. Hear a snippet above, and get the full program by going to RoadSigns.TTNews.com.
Episode 61: How Is the E-Commerce Boom Reshaping Logistics?
Over the past 15 months, the COVID-19 pandemic has altered our way of life in many ways. Rather than visiting the mall or brick-and-mortar retail stores, consumers have turned to online shopping. This shift toward e-commerce has created new buying habits, as well as new challenges for the supply chain. In this episode, we explore these changing habits and how they are altering the logistics business with a guest who is right in the middle of this field. Join host Seth Clevenger as he gets the 411 on e-commerce fulfillment from Mark Manduca, chief investment officer for XPO's contract logistics segment, which will soon become a stand-alone company, GXO. Will e-commerce growth continue as we recover from the pandemic and people become increasingly comfortable shopping in person again? If so, how are supply chains changing to meet this demand? Hear a snippet above, and get the full program by going to RoadSigns.TTNews.com.
Episode 60: How Are State Governments Handling Regulatory Issues so Far in 2021?
On May 25, 2021, five individuals pleaded guilty to staging two accidents in New Orleans with tractor-trailers in 2017, while obtaining fraudulent financial settlements totaling more than $282,000. Such settlements are crushing for businesses, and carry a monetary burden. The threat to businesses has increased, as those implicated faced questions about safety and spiked insurance rates. In this episode we ask, is the situation surrounding fraudulent settlements getting worse or better in 2021? To get answers, host Michael Freeze talks with Transport Topics government reporters Eric Miller and Eleanor Lamb about what industry leaders are doing to combat lawsuit abuse. Hear a snippet above, and get the full program by going to RoadSigns.TTNews.com.
Episode 59: How Is the Trucking Industry Approaching the Continual Issue of Truck Parking?
The story of a crowded parking lot: slow stops, the lack of reserved spots and the race to an empty space. We've all been there, but what if the lack of a parking spot had an effect on how well you did your job? Or even made it hard for you to fill basic human needs — like eating or sleeping? When the pandemic started, drivers faced crowded parking lots, closed rest areas and minimal roadside support. And now, almost a year and a half later, they still face the fear of not finding a place to park, which means having no place to rest. In this episode, host Michael Freeze seeks answers to this wearying question from those on the forefront of research and legislative action. Hear a snippet above, and get the full program by going to RoadSigns.TTNews.com.
Episode 58: How Is University Research Advancing Transportation Technology?
Next-level technologies hold the potential to enhance safety and efficiency in the transportation industry, but it takes a lot of work behind the scenes to advance these ideas from concept to reality. In many cases, that process involves industrialists, entrepreneurs and leading university researchers coming together to rethink common practices and put emerging technologies to the test. At the Robotics Institute at Carnegie Mellon, principal project scientist Christoph Mertz cultivates predictive road maintenance technology to ease the pain of potholes and basic infrastructure roadblocks. Meanwhile, at the University of Michigan, Huei Peng leads the MCity consortium to support the development of automated and connected vehicle technology. Hear a snippet above, and get the full program by going to RoadSigns.TTNews.com.
Episode 57: Electric Trucks Are Here, But How Quickly Will They Take Off?
The year is 2039. Zero-emission, electric heavy-duty trucks roll past you on the highway. Charging ports are now commonplace at terminals and truck stops. Diesel-powered vehicles are becoming a thing of the past. You sit and wonder: How did we get here? The answer is complex and involves the convergence of several key factors, including a societywide push to improve environmental sustainability, major advances in electric-vehicle technology, fleet participation in vehicle testing and development, broad investments in charging infrastructure and a holistic approach to the entire electric ecosystem that captured imaginations at the right time. Here, in 2021, Daimler Trucks North America's head of eMobility speaks to RoadSigns. Hear a snippet above, and get the full program by going to RoadSigns.TTNews.com.
Episode 56: What Will It Take to Make Autonomous Trucking a Reality?
Have you been imagining a driverless future where the machines do all the work and humans watch? You might be in for a surprise. Even at Level 4 autonomy, self-driving trucks will have technical limitations. They will be designed for specific applications that are best suited to automation. They’ll also require industry buy-in and public acceptance. In this episode, we ask how technology developers are clearing those hurdles to make autonomous trucking a reality. And how might the trucking industry improve safety and efficiency by combining automation and human labor in the future? To find out, we bring in Boris Sofman, head of engineering for the autonomous trucking program at Waymo. Hear a snippet above, and get the full program by going to RoadSigns.TTNews.com.
Episode 55: What Can the Trucking Industry Do to Include More Diversity?
Finding a job in the trucking industry: You have the talent ambition and drive, but how can you get in the right room? In front of the right people? People of color are asking themselves these questions more often than not. Currently, only 14.3% of the truck driver population is made up of African Americans, followed by 13% Hispanic, and 7% Asian. In this episode, host Michael Freeze wonders what industry leaders are doing to increase those percentages in driving roles, leadership positions, and entrepreneurial opportunities. Turns out, it has a lot to do with being in the right room at the right time, but who is opening those doors? Find out, as we talk to two trucking industry experts who have implemented their own practices that are contributing to a more diverse work community. Hear a snippet above, and get the full program by going to RoadSigns.TTNews.com.
Episode 54: How Has the Industry's Execution of Vaccine Fared Thus Far?
When you think about COVID-19 vaccine strategy, vials and needles come to mind rather than supply chain portals and cargo visibility tools. That isn't the case for DHL's Larry S. Onge and Jim Monkmeyer. Since before the pandemic, they set up strategies and implemented technology in order to respond to disruptions like COVID-19. Now, they know exactly how to get the vaccine from point A to point B – and, better, how to do it at a global scale. Hear a snippet, above, and get the full program by going to RoadSigns.TTNews.com.
Episode 53: How Is Technology Improving Driver Safety?
A safe driver is a productive driver, and a productive driver leads to better business. In order to keep business productive, fleets invest in tech-based safety tools that inform and forewarn potential risk. But, have you ever thought that it’s actually up to the drivers to heed those calls? Host Michael Freeze has. And so, too, have many of the nation's truck fleet owners. How do you condition and prepare drivers to respond to tech-influenced safety alerts? Find out as the RoadSigns Team speaks with Tom DiSalvi, VP of Safety at Schneider National, and Charlie Mohn, Director of Product Innovation at Drivewyze. Hear a snippet, above, and get the full program by going to RoadSigns.TTNews.com.
Episode 52: How Is Consolidation Reshaping Trucking’s Technology Market?
A long line of mergers and acquisitions has dramatically reshaped the trucking technology sector over the past decade. But what does this consolidation trend mean for the trucking and logistics companies that rely on these technologies? In this episode, Seth Clevenger speaks with James Langley, senior vice president at Trimble Transportation, on the modernization of tech stacks and how freight technology companies are coming together to reach a common end goal: making fleet operations more efficient. Hear a snippet, above, and get the full program by going to RoadSigns.TTNews.com.
Episode 51: Will Machine Learning Power the Future of Trucking Software?
From nuclear verdicts to the driver shortage, modern trucking companies face serious challenges. But what if you could prevent accidents and driver turnover before they happen? In this episode, host Seth Clevenger speaks with two technology CEOs to discuss how machine learning can enable better business decisions and a more proactive stance on safety. Hear a snippet, above, and get the full program by going to RoadSigns.TTNews.com.
Episode 50: How Can Fleets Harness Data to Save Fuel and Cut Emissions?
Sustainable trucking is here. A growing number of shippers, focused on reducing carbon emissions in their supply chains, are looking for more efficient freight transportation services. Federal and state clean air regulations only underscore that demand. Gone, though, are the days when going green simply meant added costs for truckers. In fact, in 2021, fleets may find more boon than burden. One key step is learning to harness and manage the data to reduce fuel consumption. In this episode, we'll talk to two major players in the transportation technology sector that are helping fleets move closer to total supply chain sustainability. Hear a snippet, above, and get the full program by going to RoadSigns.TTNews.com.
Episode 49: Will Technology Convergence Streamline Fleet Management?
Adopt new tech, and you'll run a more efficient operation, but what happens when your trucking tech stack becomes unruly? With copious amounts of data sitting in different silos and redundant in-cab hardware, fleets are left scrambling. In this episode, we ask, how can we cut down on these redundancies? And what can be done to streamline fleet management practices? To get answers, we talk with Ray Greer, CEO of Omnitracs, which acquired SmartDrive last year in an effort to converge tech and improve user experience. Hear a snippet, above, and get the full program by going to RoadSigns.TTNews.com.
Episode 48: RoadSigns Roundabout: Year in Review, Part 2
In 2020, COVID strained business stability, yet trucking persevered. Which were the greatest pain points? What were the biggest lessons? In this episode, we discuss the answers to these questions and cover everything from gas tax to remote work. With the help of our special Transport Topics guests, Seth Clevenger, Managing Editor for Features, and reporter Eleanor Lamb, we’ll not only start to put the year of COVID in perspective for truckers, we’ll also begin to map a plan for 2021. Hear a snippet, above, and get the full program by going to RoadSigns.TTNews.com.
Episode 47: RoadSigns Roundabout: Year in Review, Part 1
In this special two-part year in review, we take off the COVID-19 glasses and take a good look at the technology and regulatory developments that will help you and your business in 2021. From FMCSA updates that affected hours of service to software and equipment, 2020 offered a lot of "non-COVID" industry improvements. To get the clearest vision of the upcoming year, we bring in Transport Topics Reporter Eleanor Lamb and Managing Editor for Features Seth Clevenger to talk about these advancements and how they will help you navigate 2021. Hear a snippet, above, and get the full program by going to RoadSigns.TTNews.com.
Episode 46: How Has COVID-19 Altered Logistics Planning for Thanksgiving?
How has turkey-to-table changed this year? What obstacles are suppliers going through to get turkeys to the grocery stores? From safety regulations in meat packing factories to restaurants closed nationwide, fleets and suppliers have to pivot to stay afloat. Join us as we talk with J.J. Smith, president of Valley Proteins, about how staying open-minded and flexible helped his business of delivering turkeys persevere. Hear a snippet above, and get the full program by going to RoadSigns.TTNews.com.
Episode 45: WD6: How Does the Industry Recruit and Nurture Workplace Diversity?
As a recruiter in the industry, it’s getting more difficult to find ample workforce needed to deliver necessary goods nationwide. You’ve tried all the proper recruiting channels — upward mobility, compensation packages, exploring different professional pockets — but have you considered inclusion and diversity in your marketing approach? According to Shelley Dellinger of Cargo Transporters and Alphonso Lewis, ATA’s Road Team Captain and YRC Freight driver, diversity in recruitment methods is essential. In this episode, we find that including people of color and members of the LGBTQ community in your marketing approach may just be the key to a stronger and more affluent workforce. Hear a snippet, above, and get the full program by going to RoadSigns.TTNews.com.
Episode 44: WD5: What Is the Industry Doing to Train and Prepare Truck Drivers?
Does incentivizing your drivers keep you up at night? Do you worry that competitive pay may not be enough? Would you be surprised to learn that cultivating successful benefits programs might be as easy as making sure your drivers are healthy, happy and prepared? In this episode, host Michael Freeze takes a look at the surprising ways trucking companies are building strong, resilient cultures and attracting talent that stays. Hear a snippet, above, and get the full program by going to RoadSigns.TTNews.com.
Episode 43: WD4: RoadSigns Roundabout: What Have We Learned About Workforce Development?
Over the past few episodes, we've had the chance to listen to the experiences of industry leaders and the strategies and planning that go into finding the right people for your workforce. With their insight, we unlocked numerous tips to keep your workforce functioning and profitable. So, this week, host Michael Freeze reviews the most important bullet points, from technician and driver training to incorporating diversity in both recruitment and retention. Hear a snippet, above, and get the full program by going to RoadSigns.TTNews.com.
Episode 42: WD3: What Is the Industry Doing to Include More Women?
What are industry executives doing to help bring more women into the fold, not only as drivers, but in leadership roles? How can we keep pushing toward a balanced boardroom? Host Michael Freeze talks with Ellen Voie, President and CEO of Women In Trucking, and Debora Babin Katz, vice president of TrucBrush Corp. Hear a snippet, above, and get the full program by going to RoadSigns.TTNews.com.
Episode 41: WD2: What Is the Process of Training a Commercial Driver?
What does it take to be a commercial driver, and what are schools doing to train these drivers? Host Michael Freeze speaks with Chris Thropp, CEO and president of Sage Truck Driving School, and Don Lefeve, CEO of the Commercial Vehicle Training Association. Hear a snippet, above, and get the full program by going to RoadSigns.TTNews.com.
Episode 40: WD1: What Does It Take to Train a Class 8 Technician?
Episode 39: How Is Connected-Vehicle Technology Transforming Fleet Management?
What fuels will power the future of trucking? For all the buzz about the potential of electric trucks, they still face challenges. In this episode we find that alternatives such as natural gas and propane offer balance and help widen the view of trucking's future. Host Seth Clevenger talks with Chad Lindholm, vice president of natural gas provider Clean Energy, and Stuart Weidie, president of a nationwide propane autogas fueling network, Alliance Autogas. Hear a snippet, above, and get the full program by going to RoadSigns.TTNews.com.
Episode 38: How Is Connected-Vehicle Technology Transforming Fleet Management?
Connected trucks have been reshaping fleet management for years, and the possibilities continue to expand. In this episode, we assess how connectivity is changing trucking today and into the future, including how it could enable electric and self-driving trucks. Host Seth Clevenger talks with two experts from Penske Transportation Solutions, Bill Combs, vice president of connected vehicle strategy and experimentation, and Samantha Thompson, manager of fleet telematics and customer success. Hear a snippet, above, and get the full program by going to RoadSigns.TTNews.com.
Episode 37: What Will the Rise of 5G Mean for Trucking?
5G wireless networks promise greater bandwidth, faster speeds and improved reliability, all of which could help accelerate the expansion of onboard sensors and connected devices on commercial trucks and trailers. But how long will the industry have to wait until this technology is ready for fleet operations? Host Seth Clevenger talks with Chris Wolfe, CEO of PowerFleet, and John Binder, director of wireless operations at Trimble Transportation. Hear a snippet, above, and get the full program by going to RoadSigns.TTNews.com.
Episode 36: How Can Fleets Get a Better Handle on Speeding?
Higher speeds can lead to costly crashes and higher insurance claims. So how can fleet managers harness technology to get a better handle on vehicle speed and improve their safety culture? Host Seth Clevenger speaks with Mathieu Boivin of E-Smart and Jonathan Hubbard of SpeedGauge. Hear a snippet, above, and get the full program by going to RoadSigns.TTNews.com.
Episode 35: RoadSigns Roundabout: Trucking’s Response to COVID-19
COVID-19 has changed the rules of business, disrupted supply chains and created market volatility. So how are businesses performing under this new work environment? And what further steps should companies take to protect employees? Host Seth Clevenger revisits interviews with a broad range of industry experts and their evolving response to the pandemic. Hear a snippet, above, and get the full program by going to RoadSigns.TTNews.com.
Episode 34: How Are Logistics Companies Managing Disruption During the COVID-19 Pandemic?
COVID-19 has placed significant strain on many freight networks. So how are third-party logistics providers adapting to meet these challenges? And how will this crisis change supply chains in the long run? Seth Clevenger chats with two 3PL executives who have had firsthand experience contending with this crisis. Hear a snippet, above, and get the full program by going to RoadSigns.TTNews.com.
Episode 33: How Are Trucking Companies Weathering the Coronavirus Storm?
There is no playbook for navigating the COVID-19 crisis. How can trucking companies adjust their operations to ensure that essential freight keeps moving while protecting their workers? Host Seth Clevenger speaks with Lilli Chiu, senior risk consultant at Hub International, and Dave Cox, president of cross-border LTL carrier Polaris Transportation, about how fleets can establish measures to help protect their drivers and other employees from contracting the virus. Hear a snippet, above, and get the full program by going to RoadSigns.TTNews.com.
Episode 32: How Is Supply Chain Visibility Easing Logistics Challenges Amid the Covid-19 Crisis?
COVID-19 has been a wakeup call to many businesses and their ability to mobilize rapidly, set up crisis management mechanisms and build the supply chain resilience that will see them through to the other side. Knowing the location and status of freight makes all the difference in navigating uncertainty. Host Seth Clevenger speaks with supply chain visibility experts Glenn Koepke and Francis Roy. Hear a snippet, above, and get the full program by going to RoadSigns.TTNews.com.
Episode 31: How Are Test Drivers Paving the Way for Truck Platooning?
Two trucks travel together in a tight formation on the highway, linked by connected vehicle technology. When the driver of the lead truck brakes, the following truck automatically follows suit. Test drivers at the helm of these truck platoons say the experience is a lot like using adaptive cruise control on steroids. In this episode, host Seth Clevenger speaks with Mike Perkins and Derrick Loo, test drivers at Peloton, one of the companies at the forefront of developing truck platooning systems. Hear a snippet, above, and get the full program by going to RoadSigns.TTNews.com.
Episode 30: Is It Time for Fleets to Accelerate Replacement Cycles for Onboard Tech?
Much of the trucking industry continues to rely on older onboard technology for mission-critical functions such as electronic logging of driver hours of service. This reliance on legacy systems can hurt reliability and efficiency, particularly with the sunsetting of 3G networks. So is it time for fleets and their technology vendors to implement faster replacement cycles for onboard tech? Seth Clevenger talks to Ray Greer, CEO of Omnitracs, and Deryk Powell, president at Velociti. Hear a snippet, above, and get the full program by going to RoadSigns.TTNews.com.
Episode 29: Who Will Repair the Trucks of Tomorrow?
Driver recruiting and turnover have been persistent challenges for trucking companies, but the industry is also struggling to attract a new generation of technicians to maintain and repair the increasingly high-tech trucks that move the nation’s freight. Seth Clevenger sits with the two people most focused on the new technician hunt. Join us in Atlanta as we talk to Technology & Maintenance Council's executive director, Robert Braswell, and new chairman, Stacy Earnhardt, and find out who's fixing the trucks of tomorrow. Hear a snippet, above, and get the full program by going to RoadSigns.TTNews.com.
Episode 28: What Can Predictive Analytics Reveal about Driver Safety?
Driver safety is paramount for trucking companies, but determining which drivers are most likely to be involved in a crash is no simple task. As it taps into a variety of data sources, predictive analytics software helps to reduce the guesswork. In this episode, host Seth Clevenger talks with Hayden Cardiff, CEO of Idelic, and Ashim Bose, chief data scientist at Omnitracs. Hear a snippet, above, and get the full program by going to RoadSigns.TTNews.com.
Episode 27: What Lies Ahead on the Road to Electric Trucks?
In this episode, we take a fresh look at the road ahead for electric-powered commercial vehicles. How soon will electrification truly take hold of trucking, and in what applications? And what are the obstacles that early adopters will need to overcome? Join Seth Clevenger in Las Vegas, from the show floor of CES 2020, as he interviews Scott Newhouse, Peterbilt chief engineer, and Chris Nordh, senior director of advanced vehicle technology and energy products at Ryder System. Hear a snippet, above, and get the full program by going to RoadSigns.TTNews.com.
Episode 26: What Did CES 2020 Reveal About the Future of Trucking?
What was trucking doing at CES 2020? This is the question that drives host Seth Clevenger to Las Vegas and the event formerly known for crazy consumer gadgets. There, he meets Rich Mohr, chief technology officer for Ryder Fleet Management Solutions, and Stephan Olsen, general manager of the Paccar Innovation Center. Listen in as these innovators help him see how high tech the industry has become, and how you can prepare for this new age of trucking. Hear a snippet, above, and get the full program by going to RoadSigns.TTNews.com.
Episode 25: RoadSigns Roundabout: Automated Trucking, Part II
Over the last few years, we've seen a great deal of investment in self-driving technology for commercial trucks. But what about trucking automation designed to support the driver rather than replace the driver? In late 2019, Chuck Price, chief product officer of TuSimple, and Ognen Stojanovski, co-founder and COO of Pronto.ai, presented RoadSigns listeners with a palatable Level 2 version of trucking autonomy. Join us on part two of our autonomous investigation, and put the machine-to-driver reality in the clearest view. Hear a snippet, above, and get the full program by going to RoadSigns.TTNews.com.
Episode 24: RoadSigns Roundabout: Automated Trucking, Part I
Last year we set out to answer a question: What does the move toward autonomy mean for the truck driver? Who’s behind the wheel of tomorrow? This year, host Seth Clevenger allows those important questions to resurface in new contexts. As part of a 2020 preview, and a two-part investigation of autonomous today, this episode revisits conversations with some of 2019's most knowledgeable experts in autonomous trucking. Hear a snippet, above, and get the full program by going to RoadSigns.TTNews.com.
Episode 23: RoadSigns Roundabout: Looking Ahead to Trucking's Future by Looking Back
Thanks to the provocative predictions about our connected future, RoadSigns guests presented listeners with a pretty surprising picture of trucking and freight transportation. In this episode, we reflect on those themes and interviews from 2019. Host Seth Clevenger gives fresh commentary on the industrywide transition to ELD, expansion of tracking and freight visibility technology, and the clarity you need to tackle truck tech's most complicated issues in the new year. Hear a snippet, above, and get the full program by going to RoadSigns.TTNews.com.
RoadSigns: Season Six
Episode 3: How Can More Diverse Leadership Spark Better Ideas in Transportation?
How can a more diverse leadership team create a competitive advantage in business? Whether you're running a trucking company or building a technology startup, adding diversity to your team will introduce new perspective. And new perspective might just be the key to taking your company to the next level. In this episode, host Seth Clevenger asks Lily Shen, president of Transfix, and Ellen Voie, president of the Women in Trucking Association, what it will take for trucking companies to remove barriers and become more inclusive. Hear a snippet, above, and get the full program by going to RoadSigns.TTNews.com.
Episode 2: How Will the Internet of Things Shape the Future of the Trucking Industry?
Transportation is becoming increasingly connected with more sensors, more data and more insights to help trucking and logistics providers operate more efficiently. So, what’s next? How can fleets prepare for this copious amount of information coming into their back office? In the episode, we head to American Trucking Association’s 2019 Management Conference & Exhibition to ask Henry Popplewell, president of Skybitz, and Scott Sutarik, vice president of commercial vehicle solutions at Geotab, what companies can do to prepare for the age of big data. Hear a snippet, above, and get the full program by going to RoadSigns.TTNews.com.
Episode 1: Will Active Safety Technology Become an Industry Standard?
Industry adoption of active safety technologies such as air disc brakes, collision mitigation systems and lane departure warnings is on the rise. Fleets that implement these technologies see lower insurance costs, reduced collision rates and significant return on investment. Join host Seth Clevenger as he travels to the 2019 North American Commercial Vehicle Show to sit down with experts from Wabco and Bendix to find out what it will take to get fleets to utilize the latest advances in vehicle safety. Hear a snippet, above, and get the full program by going to RoadSigns.TTNews.com.
RoadSigns: Season Five
Episode 3: How Can Trucking Raise the Bar for Freight Visibility?
Suddenly, shippers seem to expect freight carriers to know, and share, the transit story. And those who cannot rise to the data demand lose out on the contract. Recent advances in AI and machine-learning software fuel this rise. But what does this mean for the shipper-carrier relationship? Host Seth Clevenger makes the journey to Trimble’s 2019 In.sight User Conference to talk to three industry experts about why the ability of real-time visibility is becoming table stakes in a large segment of the freight market. Hear a snippet, above, and get the full program by going to RoadSigns.TTNews.com.
Episode 2: How Can Fleets Navigate the Path Ahead for Data Analytics and ELDs?
Onboard software means machine data, maintenance data, driver data, load data and all other sorts of road data arrive at the fleet’s back office waiting to be sifted for powerful insight. But that requires fleets to have the right back-office software to do that sifting, and the right (and regulatory compliant) onboard software to do the right kind of data collecting. That can mean challenges for today's fleet. Seth Clevenger travels to the Trimble 2019 In.sight User Conference to ask a pair of executives to help him understand how one company attempts to think about a data-management future. Hear a snippet, above, and get the full program by going to RoadSigns.TTNews.com.
Episode 1: How Will Machine Learning Enhance Transportation Software?
Trucking decisions have gone to the machines. The promises sound almost magical: Supply your shippers with better freight visibility with one click, better manage your driver profiles and increase retention with this easy software. In fact, today, an algorithmic solution exists for almost every trucking and logistics problem. But, Seth Clevenger wonders, how well are the machines learning at scale? Will these technologies really continue to provide today’s trucking and logistics managers with better decision and support solutions for real-world problems tomorrow? To get some answers, our host travels to the 2019 McLeod Software User Conference and sits with tech expert and company CEO Tom McLeod, who helps to put a human explanation to the work of the machines. Listen in, before RoadSigns automatically recommends a different podcast episode. Hear a snippet, above, and get the full program by going to RoadSigns.TTNews.com.
RoadSigns: Season Four
Episode 3: Onboard Video: What Really Happened Out on the Road?
Until recently, what happened on the road, stayed on the road. Trucking businesses had little opportunity to monitor and measure fundamental parts of their operations, and drivers were on their own to battle claims. Now, onboard cameras provide a view of the road and the cab. Fleets use the devices to help with everything from employee training to risk management. But does such use pay dividends? Will onboard cameras lead fleets to greater efficiency, better safety records, and stronger decision-making? Listen in, as host Seth Clevenger asks two leading field experts to help him understand the real value of these devices. Hear a snippet, above, and get the full program by going to RoadSigns.TTNews.com.
Episode 2: Will Automated Steering Make Trucks Safer and Drivers Happier?
The introduction of active steering features in commercial trucks represents the next evolutioary stage for the onboard safety and collision mitigation systems available on the market today. But how will this affect the driver experience? Host Seth Clevenger speaks with experts Dan Williams, director of ADAS and autonomy at ZF Group, and Jason Roycht, vice president and regional business leader for commercial vehicles at Bosch North America. Hear a snippet, above, and get the full program by going to RoadSigns.TTNews.com.
Episode 1: What Does the Future Hold for Truck Platooning?
Truck platooning lets paired trucks brake and accelerate in unison to save fuel, and could increase driver productivity. So why is platooning still in the testing phase? Host Seth Clevenger sits down with government reporter Eleanor Lamb and Cetin Mericli, CEO and Founder of Locomation, a company that is actively implementing platooning practices. Hear a snippet from Mericli, above, and get the full program by going to RoadSigns.TTNews.com.
RoadSigns: Season Three
Episode 3: Is Predictive Maintenance the Next Big Leap for Fleet Efficiency?
They say if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it. So, what if you could plan maintenance and parts replacement on need, rather than standard service intervals? The cost benefits are invaluable. Equipment maintenance has a large part of the bottom line of trucking fuel efficiency. Hear a snippet from Clevenger, above, and get the full program by going to RoadSigns.TTNews.com.
Episode 2: How Much More Juice Can Be Squeezed Out of the Aerodynamics Lemon?
Sophisticated fleets have already taken advantage of the low-hanging fruit, such as sideskirts and trailer tails, and OEMs have made their tractors more streamlined. So, our host wonders, what's left? How much more is possible? Can trucking businesses still make lemonade by adopting new practices? Or is this field just out of juice? Hear a snipped from Clevenger, above, and get the full program by going to RoadSigns.TTNews.com.
Episode 1: How Can Trucking Take Fuel Economy to the Next Level?
The perpetual drive to improve fuel efficiency will only continue as fleets look to improve their bottom lines, and GHG emission and fuel economy standards tighten. So, host Seth Clevenger wonders, what are fleets and tech vendors doing to find further improvements in fuel economy? Hear a snipped from Clevenger, above, and get the full program by going to RoadSigns.TTNews.com.
RoadSigns: Season Two
Episode 3: How does AI Change Trucking’s Back Office?
Did you ever wonder what might happen if your back-office decision-makers had time to strategize and think, rather than be weighed down by menial tasks? Could the digital brain help support your real human brains? And could they do so in cost-effective ways? In this episode of RoadSigns, host Seth Clevenger takes a look at the way an entirely new technology changes trucking’s and freight transportation’s back office. As artificial intelligence and machine learning begin to appear in trucking and logistics software, he wonders, “How is this trend changing transportation management? And ... what is the future?” Hear a snipped from Clevenger, above, and get the full program by going to RoadSigns.TTNews.com.
Episode 2: What Does the Future Hold for ELDs?
Have you thought about technology as a gateway to … more technology? Take the oft-considered electronic logging device technology as an example. What was a technology meant to track hours of service may now be a gateway into new forms of fleet management. In fact, several new ELD vendors (at least the successful ones) are expanding their products to deliver new fleet management features beyond core compliance. In this episode of RoadSigns, host Seth Clevenger goes on the hunt for examples of new uses of the tech formerly known just as hours-of-service tracking and asks, “Can it really do that too?” Hear a snippet from Norm Ellis, president of EROAD, above, and get the full program by going to RoadSigns.TTnews.com.
Episode 1: The AOBRD Phaseout: Is Your Fleet Prepared?
It’s time to trade in your old tech for new. Oh … and you have less than a year to complete the journey.
Every business manager knows that, when you have institutionalized an operational technology, moving to a new system can feel like an impossible task. And the stakes increase when outside forces put a time constraint on that change. Some of trucking's most forward-thinking managers provide a good example. Their tech? The driver-logging software known as AOBRDs. These managers have until December 2019 to migrate to new tracking platforms: electronic logging devices. Unlike those who adopted ELDs as new technology, AOBRD users understand the benefits of this tracking technology but must deal with legacy workflows and other operational requirements. In this episode of RoadSigns, host Seth Clevenger maps the great tech migration from AOBRDs to ELDs and asks, “What will trucking's business leaders need to make the transition in time?” Hear a snippet from Fred Fakkema, vice president of compliance at Zonar, above, and get the full program by going to RoadSigns.TTnews.com.
RoadSigns: Season Intersession
Episode 2: Is Trucking Charging Toward an Electric Reality?
Right now, in the ports of Southern California, product planning, purchasing, and regulatory forces are coming together to lay the groundwork for the first real electric ecosystem. Grants and incentives make EV technology attractive for both new truck manufacturers and buyers. So, host Dan Ronan wonders, could what’s happening at the ports of Southern California have consequences for the way the rest of the nation experiences an electric future? To find out, he spends time with the head of product planning for a major truck manufacturer and a policy expert with an eye on sustainable trucking. Hear a snippet from Volvo's Keith Brandis above, and get the full program by going to RoadSigns.TTNews.com.
Episode 1: How Does Congress Say Trucking?
With a new Congress set to convene in January, what is the opportunity for movement on trucking issues on Capitol Hill? Will infrastructure finally bubble up to the top of the priority list as a potential bipartisan victory? TT's Eugene Mulero and CQ Roll Call's Kellie Mejdrich talk with TT's Dan Ronan about what's ahead not only on Capitol Hill but also on the regulatory front. Hear a snippet from Mejdrich above, and get the full program by going to RoadSigns.TTNews.com.
RoadSigns: Season One
Episode 5: Tap Here to Book Your Next Load
How far can we go in terms of automating freight transactions? Will automated brokerage really be able to help shippers find trucks and fleets find drivers? Hear a snippet from Ziad Ismail, chief product officer at digital freight matching firm Convoy, and get the full program by going to RoadSigns.TTNews.com
Episode 4: Putting the Supply Chain on the Blockchain
What does trucking's rush toward blockchain mean for an industry that relies so much on trust among business partners? Will it be able to put its trust in this technology platform and its immutable data? Hear a snippet from Ken Craig, vice president of special projects for McLeod Software and co-founder of the Blockchain in Transport Alliance (BiTA), and get the full program by going to RoadSigns.TTNews.com
Episode 3: Will Your Next Truck Be a Plug-In?
Are electric vehicles poised to break through in commercial transportation? Hear a snippet from Mike Roeth, executive director of the North American Council for Freight Efficiency, and get the full program by going to RoadSigns.TTNews.com.
Episode 2: What's Next on the Road to Self-Driving Trucks?
So automation is coming, but how will it be deployed? What will the legal and regulatory framework look like? Hear a snippet from Chuck Price, vice president of product at TuSimple, and get the full program by going to RoadSigns.TTNews.com.
Episode 1: Autonomous: Who's Behind the Wheel of Tomorrow?
In our debut episodes of RoadSigns, we focus on how the trucking industry’s steady and ongoing development of autonomous technology may someday affect truck drivers.
In our debut episode of RoadSigns, we ask: What does the move toward autonomy mean for the truck driver? Hear a snippet from Alex Rodrigues, CEO of Embark, above, and get the full program by going to RoadSigns.TTNews.com.
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