Uber Freight announced it's newest capacity-as-a-service offering, Broker Access. The tool is designed to provide capacity for other brokers through the Uber platform. Uber has tens of thousands of carriers within it's network through the development of it's own brokerage and the acquisition of Transplace. My concern with this program is, in my opinion, this is a case of double or co-brokering. Whichever terminology you choose to use, it represents a problem as most shippers would be very opposed to any type of arrangement where one broker is procuring capacity from another broker. 

During the episode, I break down why I believe what I do about this program, and what I think Uber should focus on moving forward to eventually reach sustainable profitability.

Follow The Freight Pod and host Andrew Silver on LinkedIn.

*** This episode is brought to you by Rapido Solutions Group. I had the pleasure of working with Danny Frisco and Roberto Icaza at Coyote, as well as being a client of theirs more recently at MoLo. Their team does a great job supplying nearshore talent to brokers, carriers, and technology providers to handle any role necessary, be it customer or carrier support, back office, or tech services. Visit gorapido.com to learn more.

A special thanks to our additional sponsors:

• Cargado – Cargado is the first platform that connects logistics companies and trucking companies that move freight into and out of Mexico. Visit cargado.com to learn more.
• Greenscreens.ai – Greenscreens.ai is the AI-powered pricing and market intelligence tool transforming how freight brokers price freight. Visit greenscreens.ai/freightpod today!
• Metafora – Metafora is a technology consulting firm that has delivered value for over a decade to brokers, shippers, carriers, private equity firms, and freight tech companies. Check them out at metafora.net. ***

Kara Smith-Brown joins us on this week's episode to discuss her career in marketing, how her company, LeadCoverage supports the freight industry, and her new book, The Revenue Engine, that comes out November 19th. Together, we explore how aligning sales with marketing can lead to a harmonious and successful business environment. By sharing her journey from the early days at Echo Global Logistics, Kara illustrates the potential of modern marketing tools to create a distinct edge for businesses in a competitive landscape. Her experiences underscore the underestimated power of marketing in shaping a company’s culture and future.

Leadership and emotional resilience take center stage as we discuss the importance of maintaining composure under stress, drawing inspiration from leaders like Doug Waggoner and Scott Pruneau. Our conversation spans meditation practices, the evolving nature of leadership styles, and the unique strengths of Type A personalities. We also tackle the challenges women face in male-dominated spaces, advocating for data-backed opinions and a deep understanding of business finance to gain influence. This episode promises an insightful journey through entrepreneurship, leadership, and strategic marketing, with a dash of real-world triumphs and personal anecdotes to inspire and motivate.

***Episode brought to you by Rapido Solutions Group. I had the pleasure of working with Danny Frisco and Roberto Icaza at Coyote, as well as being a client of theirs more recently at MoLo. Their team does a great job supplying nearshore talent to brokers, carriers, and technology providers to handle any role necessary, be it customer or carrier support, back office, or tech services.***

Follow The Freight Pod and host Andrew Silver on LinkedIn.

*** This episode is brought to you by Rapido Solutions Group. I had the pleasure of working with Danny Frisco and Roberto Icaza at Coyote, as well as being a client of theirs more recently at MoLo. Their team does a great job supplying nearshore talent to brokers, carriers, and technology providers to handle any role necessary, be it customer or carrier support, back office, or tech services. Visit gorapido.com to learn more.

A special thanks to our additional sponsors:

• Cargado – Cargado is the first platform that connects logistics companies and trucking companies that move freight into and out of Mexico. Visit cargado.com to learn more.
• Greenscreens.ai – Greenscreens.ai is the AI-powered pricing and market intelligence tool transforming how freight brokers price freight. Visit greenscreens.ai/freightpod today!
• Metafora – Metafora is a technology consulting firm that has delivered value for over a decade to brokers, shippers, carriers, private equity firms, and freight tech companies. Check them out at metafora.net. ***

This week's episode provides a captivating look into the rise and fall of Surge Transportation, a freight brokerage founded by Omar Singh. In July 2023, Surge filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy. One year later, the US Bankruptcy court of Jacksonville confirmed their plan of reorganization, making them the first brokerage to successfully reorganize post-bankruptcy. We dive into all the details of the ups and downs of this story, as told by it's CEO and owner himself.

The episode begins with Omar's journey, which has admirable and humble beginnings. He got his CDL license out of high school and drove trucks to pay for college and an MBA, eventually starting his own trucking company. Omar is a true trucker at heart. But, his experiences during the 2008-2010 recession led him to pivot to brokerage, and in 2016 he launched Surge Transportation. The company experienced strong growth, reaching over 280 employees and a $300 million run rate by late 2021, driven by prioritizing backup routing guide support and dynamic pricing.

However, a number of strategic decisions and financial mismanagement would spell trouble as the market shifted in 2022. Surge's reliance on the spot market and lack of long-term primary contracts became problematic as the industry reached the latest down cycle. Omar walks us through every step of the way, the challenges he faced, the sale attempts in the final months, etc. Despite filing for bankruptcy in July 2023, he expressed his intent of doing the right thing, taking personal responsibility and working to restructure the business in a way that allows him to repay debts and rebuild trust. His story serves as a cautionary tale, but also demonstrates the resilience and determination required to rebuild a business in the face of adversity. 

***Episode brought to you by Rapido Solutions Group. I had the pleasure of working with Danny Frisco and Roberto Icaza at Coyote, as well as being a client of theirs more recently at MoLo. Their team does a great job supplying nearshore talent to brokers, carriers, and technology providers to handle any role necessary, be it customer or carrier support, back office, or tech services.***

Follow The Freight Pod and host Andrew Silver on LinkedIn.

*** This episode is brought to you by Rapido Solutions Group. I had the pleasure of working with Danny Frisco and Roberto Icaza at Coyote, as well as being a client of theirs more recently at MoLo. Their team does a great job supplying nearshore talent to brokers, carriers, and technology providers to handle any role necessary, be it customer or carrier support, back office, or tech services. Visit gorapido.com to learn more.

A special thanks to our additional sponsors:

• Cargado – Cargado is the first platform that connects logistics companies and trucking companies that move freight into and out of Mexico. Visit cargado.com to learn more.
• Greenscreens.ai – Greenscreens.ai is the AI-powered pricing and market intelligence tool transforming how freight brokers price freight. Visit greenscreens.ai/freightpod today!
• Metafora – Metafora is a technology consulting firm that has delivered value for over a decade to brokers, shippers, carriers, private equity firms, and freight tech companies. Check them out at metafora.net. ***

Join us as Jason Provonsha, the CEO of Steam Logistics, shares his career journey and the lessons he's learned along the way. Starting from an unexpected pivot into logistics with Access America Transport to the acquisition by Coyote Logistics before ultimately finding his long term home at Steam, Jason's story is a masterclass in adaptability and growth. 

This episode isn't just about career milestones; it's a deep dive into the fabric of leadership and organizational culture. Jason shares insights into the complexities of private equity buyouts/acquisitions and the critical importance of prioritizing workplace environment. We'll explore the benefits of a flat organizational structure that fosters collaboration and accessibility, and how leaders can inspire passion within their teams—even in industries that might not seem inherently exciting. Jason also provides a candid look at the stress and triumphs of steering a company through periods of significant change and growth.

We'll also unpack the strategic evolution of Steam Logistics, from its roots in freight forwarding to becoming a fully integrated, multimodal 3PL. Jason gives The Freight Pod it's first look at international freight forwarding. He also details the Cradle-To-Grave pod model that encourages entrepreneurial behavior within the company and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the logistics industry. With insights into the crucial role of custom technology in enhancing business efficiency, this episode offers a comprehensive understanding of the evolving logistics landscape. Tune in to gain valuable wisdom on intentional culture-building and how to navigate the highs and lows of leading a growing organization.

***Episode brought to you by Rapido Solutions Group. I had the pleasure of working with Danny Frisco and Roberto Icaza at Coyote, as well as being a client of theirs more recently at MoLo. Their team does a great job supplying nearshore talent to brokers, carriers, and technology providers to handle any role necessary, be it customer or carrier support, back office, or tech services.***

Follow The Freight Pod and host Andrew Silver on LinkedIn.

*** This episode is brought to you by Rapido Solutions Group. I had the pleasure of working with Danny Frisco and Roberto Icaza at Coyote, as well as being a client of theirs more recently at MoLo. Their team does a great job supplying nearshore talent to brokers, carriers, and technology providers to handle any role necessary, be it customer or carrier support, back office, or tech services. Visit gorapido.com to learn more.

A special thanks to our additional sponsors:

• Cargado – Cargado is the first platform that connects logistics companies and trucking companies that move freight into and out of Mexico. Visit cargado.com to learn more.
• Greenscreens.ai – Greenscreens.ai is the AI-powered pricing and market intelligence tool transforming how freight brokers price freight. Visit greenscreens.ai/freightpod today!
• Metafora – Metafora is a technology consulting firm that has delivered value for over a decade to brokers, shippers, carriers, private equity firms, and freight tech companies. Check them out at metafora.net. ***

We're joined this week by Corey Ritenour, current Sr. Director Transportation and interim Head of Supply Chain for Lindt & Sprungli, one of the premier chocolate manufacturers in the country. Corey comes to the table with 20 years of industry experience, all working for large, established manufacturers. He began his career at the ground level at Conagra working as a Transportation Planner, working his way up and across various roles as he moved on to PepsiCo, Smurfit Stone, and Mars PetCare before establishing himself for 5 years at Dairy Farmers of America. He has now spent the last 5 years in his current role with Lindt. This wide breadth of transportation experience makes for a riveting conversation that any supply chain professional can learn from. He provides advice and insights that he gathered from his time at each of these great companies.

We spend time doing deep dives into Dairy Farmers of America and Lindt & Sprungli, two very unique organizations, one owned by farmers, the other representing a shared services model across three chocolate companies. The nuances from these experiences and depth provided make for quality conversation and valuable learnings for listeners.

We pivot from there to Corey's perspective on brokers and carriers pursuing his business. He gives us an inside look to his role, the challenges he faces on a day-to-day basis, and the "do's and don'ts" for prospective partners. We get into a market cycle conversation as well, looking at the last four years, from the highest of highs during Covid, to the lowest of lows brought on the last two years in the aftermath. 

End to end, this episode is filled with great nuggets of information thanks to Corey's decades of experience and wisdom shared. 

***Episode brought to you by Rapido Solutions Group. I had the pleasure of working with Danny Frisco and Roberto Icaza at Coyote, as well as being a client of theirs more recently at MoLo. Their team does a great job supplying nearshore talent to brokers, carriers, and technology providers to handle any role necessary, be it customer or carrier support, back office, or tech services.***

Follow The Freight Pod and host Andrew Silver on LinkedIn.

*** This episode is brought to you by Rapido Solutions Group. I had the pleasure of working with Danny Frisco and Roberto Icaza at Coyote, as well as being a client of theirs more recently at MoLo. Their team does a great job supplying nearshore talent to brokers, carriers, and technology providers to handle any role necessary, be it customer or carrier support, back office, or tech services. Visit gorapido.com to learn more.

A special thanks to our additional sponsors:

• Cargado – Cargado is the first platform that connects logistics companies and trucking companies that move freight into and out of Mexico. Visit cargado.com to learn more.
• Greenscreens.ai – Greenscreens.ai is the AI-powered pricing and market intelligence tool transforming how freight brokers price freight. Visit greenscreens.ai/freightpod today!
• Metafora – Metafora is a technology consulting firm that has delivered value for over a decade to brokers, shippers, carriers, private equity firms, and freight tech companies. Check them out at metafora.net. ***

How did a part-time, hourly worker on the production floor rise to become a corporate transportation leader within Coca-Cola? Uncover Rob Haddock's  journey from stacking cases in the early 1980s to becoming a pivotal figure in Coca-Cola's logistics and supply chain operations. Rob’s story is a testament to the power of adaptability, continuous learning, and seizing opportunities as they arise. His experiences reveal how hands-on roles can set the stage for significant career growth, even in a challenging job market.

Gain insights into Coca-Cola's approach to supply chain resilience and the critical role logistics play in its operations. Discover the strategies that helped the company navigate frequent organizational shifts and industry-wide crises, including the implementation of E-logs and the Covid pandemic. Rob sheds light on the importance of aligning logistical capabilities with sales and marketing ambitions and the benefits of robust in-house reporting tools for strategic decision-making. This episode emphasizes the necessity of effective collaboration across various teams to ensure seamless operations and customer satisfaction.

Peek into the future of transportation trends and strategies with Rob's expert analysis. Learn about the evolution of shipper-carrier relationships and the key metrics that drive successful logistics operations. Rob discusses the importance of being a "shipper of choice" and how fostering strong partnerships with carriers can optimize freight capacity. With advice for both industry veterans and young professionals, this episode is packed with actionable insights on improving transportation efficiency, managing operational costs, and enhancing industry collaboration.

***Episode brought to you by Rapido Solutions Group. I had the pleasure of working with Danny Frisco and Roberto Icaza at Coyote, as well as being a client of theirs more recently at MoLo. Their team does a great job supplying nearshore talent to brokers, carriers, and technology providers to handle any role necessary, be it customer or carrier support, back office, or tech services.***

Follow The Freight Pod and host Andrew Silver on LinkedIn.

*** This episode is brought to you by Rapido Solutions Group. I had the pleasure of working with Danny Frisco and Roberto Icaza at Coyote, as well as being a client of theirs more recently at MoLo. Their team does a great job supplying nearshore talent to brokers, carriers, and technology providers to handle any role necessary, be it customer or carrier support, back office, or tech services. Visit gorapido.com to learn more.

A special thanks to our additional sponsors:

• Cargado – Cargado is the first platform that connects logistics companies and trucking companies that move freight into and out of Mexico. Visit cargado.com to learn more.
• Greenscreens.ai – Greenscreens.ai is the AI-powered pricing and market intelligence tool transforming how freight brokers price freight. Visit greenscreens.ai/freightpod today!
• Metafora – Metafora is a technology consulting firm that has delivered value for over a decade to brokers, shippers, carriers, private equity firms, and freight tech companies. Check them out at metafora.net. ***

On this week's episode, we dive into our first true panel with three of our industry's experts discussing the world of Carrier Sales. We are joined by Drew Herpich, Chief Commercial Officer of Nolan Transportation Group and Transportation Insight, Jay Gustafson, EVP of Brokerage Operations at Echo Global Logistics, and Blair Blake, VP of Carrier Strategy at Arrive Logistics.

Throughout this conversation, we talk about what makes a great carrier sales rep, different strategies that organizations take to procure capacity and how they manage the reps who work to find said capacity. As technology has improved, we hit on the impact to the carrier sales role as well as how procurement has changed with this technological evolution. We dive into AI, and the impact it may have in the space. We make some bold predictions for five years from now. 

These three veterans bring their unique perspectives from helping leading some of the most successful brokerages, and in doing so, make for a great episode for our listeners.

***Episode brought to you by Rapido Solutions Group. I had the pleasure of working with Danny Frisco and Roberto Icaza at Coyote, as well as being a client of theirs more recently at MoLo. Their team does a great job supplying nearshore talent to brokers, carriers, and technology providers to handle any role necessary, be it customer or carrier support, back office, or tech services.***

Follow The Freight Pod and host Andrew Silver on LinkedIn.

*** This episode is brought to you by Rapido Solutions Group. I had the pleasure of working with Danny Frisco and Roberto Icaza at Coyote, as well as being a client of theirs more recently at MoLo. Their team does a great job supplying nearshore talent to brokers, carriers, and technology providers to handle any role necessary, be it customer or carrier support, back office, or tech services. Visit gorapido.com to learn more.

A special thanks to our additional sponsors:

• Cargado – Cargado is the first platform that connects logistics companies and trucking companies that move freight into and out of Mexico. Visit cargado.com to learn more.
• Greenscreens.ai – Greenscreens.ai is the AI-powered pricing and market intelligence tool transforming how freight brokers price freight. Visit greenscreens.ai/freightpod today!
• Metafora – Metafora is a technology consulting firm that has delivered value for over a decade to brokers, shippers, carriers, private equity firms, and freight tech companies. Check them out at metafora.net. ***

RXO just announced the acquisition of Coyote Logistics for $1.025 billion. On today's episode, you get to hear a deep dive with RXO CEO Drew Wilkerson. He breaks down why Coyote was such an attractive acquisition target for RXO, what he hopes to accomplish through the integration process, and how he is thinking about their future together strategically. We talk about the impact to the people from both organizations, the processes, and the technology the organization will use moving forward. Drew gives us a glimpse into his strategic approach and a message to his future employees from Coyote.

We also delve into the complexities of integrating sales teams and maintaining customer relationships during acquisitions. Drew sheds light on the importance of people and culture, emphasizing that success hinges on engaging with employees and customers alike. Learn how RXO plans to use detailed customer feedback to drive continuous improvement and align everyone to their mission. Drew's enthusiasm is palpable as he discusses the future, confident in the freight brokerage model and the strategic advantages this acquisition brings.

***Episode brought to you by Rapido Solutions Group. I had the pleasure of working with Danny Frisco and Roberto Icaza at Coyote, as well as being a client of theirs more recently at MoLo. Their team does a great job supplying nearshore talent to brokers, carriers, and technology providers to handle any role necessary, be it customer or carrier support, back office, or tech services.***

Follow The Freight Pod and host Andrew Silver on LinkedIn.

*** This episode is brought to you by Rapido Solutions Group. I had the pleasure of working with Danny Frisco and Roberto Icaza at Coyote, as well as being a client of theirs more recently at MoLo. Their team does a great job supplying nearshore talent to brokers, carriers, and technology providers to handle any role necessary, be it customer or carrier support, back office, or tech services. Visit gorapido.com to learn more.

A special thanks to our additional sponsors:

• Cargado – Cargado is the first platform that connects logistics companies and trucking companies that move freight into and out of Mexico. Visit cargado.com to learn more.
• Greenscreens.ai – Greenscreens.ai is the AI-powered pricing and market intelligence tool transforming how freight brokers price freight. Visit greenscreens.ai/freightpod today!
• Metafora – Metafora is a technology consulting firm that has delivered value for over a decade to brokers, shippers, carriers, private equity firms, and freight tech companies. Check them out at metafora.net. ***

We are joined this week by Dave Broering, President of NFI Integrated Logistics. Dave takes us through his career journey from being hired at American Backhaulers in 1997, to spending 12 years at C.H. Robinson, before finding his current home at NFI, where he oversees all integrated logistics responsibilities. 

NFI just announced it has acquired the brokerage from Transfix and will become it's first partner on the Transfix TMS. We break down how that transaction played out and the strategy for NFI moving forward as a result.

Before that though, we go down a rabbit hole of awesome topics, including:
-              Building positive work culture

-              Challenges of remote work 

-              Attracting and retaining Gen Z talent

-              Value of transparency in leadership

-              Current market dynamics

-              Power of relationships

-              AI

-              Evolution of TMS

-              Future of brokerage

So sit back, relax, and enjoy this great episode with Dave.

Follow The Freight Pod and host Andrew Silver on LinkedIn.

*** This episode is brought to you by Rapido Solutions Group. I had the pleasure of working with Danny Frisco and Roberto Icaza at Coyote, as well as being a client of theirs more recently at MoLo. Their team does a great job supplying nearshore talent to brokers, carriers, and technology providers to handle any role necessary, be it customer or carrier support, back office, or tech services. Visit gorapido.com to learn more.

A special thanks to our additional sponsors:

• Cargado – Cargado is the first platform that connects logistics companies and trucking companies that move freight into and out of Mexico. Visit cargado.com to learn more.
• Greenscreens.ai – Greenscreens.ai is the AI-powered pricing and market intelligence tool transforming how freight brokers price freight. Visit greenscreens.ai/freightpod today!
• Metafora – Metafora is a technology consulting firm that has delivered value for over a decade to brokers, shippers, carriers, private equity firms, and freight tech companies. Check them out at metafora.net. ***

Harman Cheema, CEO of Cheema Freightlines, joins the show as our guest this week. This is our first time hosting the owner of an asset-based carrier, so this episode is a deep dive into the world of owning trucks. Cheema operates over 500 trucks, 2,000 trailers, and it's own brokerage as well. We talk about hiring and retaining drivers in a turnover-heavy industry, hiring practices and red flags to look for. We also discuss the challenges of managing an effective network and the importance of strong customer relationships to help build stability. 

Cheema's story is a fascinating one, as the company was started by Harman's father as a 1 truck operation in 2006. Harman took over in his early twenties and has scaled the organization to become a top West coast provider in the industry, recognized for service by numerous customers. 

***This episode is brought to you by Rapido Solutions Group.
Rapido connects logistics and supply chain organizations in North America with the best nearshore talent to scale efficiently, operate on par with US-based teams, and deliver superior customer service.
Rapido works with businesses from all sides of the logistics industry — including 3PLs, carriers, and logistics software companies. Rapido builds out teams with roles across customer and carrier sales and support, back-office administration, and technology services.
The team at Rapido knows logistics and people — it’s what sets them apart. Rapido is driven by an inside knowledge of how to recruit, hire, and train within the logistics industry and a passion to build better solutions for success. Learn more about the Rapido solution and begin building your team away from home at gorapido.com.***

Follow The Freight Pod and host Andrew Silver on LinkedIn.

*** This episode is brought to you by Rapido Solutions Group. I had the pleasure of working with Danny Frisco and Roberto Icaza at Coyote, as well as being a client of theirs more recently at MoLo. Their team does a great job supplying nearshore talent to brokers, carriers, and technology providers to handle any role necessary, be it customer or carrier support, back office, or tech services. Visit gorapido.com to learn more.

A special thanks to our additional sponsors:

• Cargado – Cargado is the first platform that connects logistics companies and trucking companies that move freight into and out of Mexico. Visit cargado.com to learn more.
• Greenscreens.ai – Greenscreens.ai is the AI-powered pricing and market intelligence tool transforming how freight brokers price freight. Visit greenscreens.ai/freightpod today!
• Metafora – Metafora is a technology consulting firm that has delivered value for over a decade to brokers, shippers, carriers, private equity firms, and freight tech companies. Check them out at metafora.net. ***

AI-written episode summary:

We are joined on this week's episode by Scott Pruneau, CEO of ITS Logistics, as he shares his remarkable journey from a serendipitous start at CH Robinson to spearheading one of the industry's most dynamic companies. Listen closely as Scott recounts the formative days of produce brokerage, offering a genuine slice of the comprehensive business education that became the foundation for his illustrious career. Our episode traverses the landscape of the freight brokerage industry's evolution, where technology and strategic shifts have revolutionized the game, proving that savvy and innovation drive today's transport connections more than geographic location.

Scott's deep expertise provides a masterclass in navigating complex freight contracts and the increasing blurring of lines between brokers and asset-based services. We probe the nuances of creating tailored agreements and the strategic importance of cultivating durable business relationships, all while steering clear of one-sided contracts that could lead to crippling nuclear verdicts. The importance of a strong business culture resonates throughout our conversation, highlighting how ITS embraces adaptability, decisive action, and a team united under a shared vision, setting the stage for growth and the successful integration of multifaceted operations.

As we round off our engaging dialogue, Scott walks us through the anticipation of e-commerce growth and ITS's transformative move towards a hybrid model, blending asset-light and asset-heavy elements. Delving into the company's innovative Container AI technology and expansive warehouse operations, Scott paints a vivid picture of a logistics enterprise poised to meet the complex needs of the modern supply chain. Whether you're a burgeoning entrepreneur or a seasoned industry professional, this episode promises a treasure trove of insights into leadership, strategy, and the relentless pursuit of innovation that defines the logistics landscape.

***This episode is brought to you by Rapido Solutions Group.
Rapido connects logistics and supply chain organizations in North America with the best nearshore talent to scale efficiently, operate on par with US-based teams, and deliver superior customer service.
Rapido works with businesses from all sides of the logistics industry — including 3PLs, carriers, and logistics software companies. Rapido builds out teams with roles across customer and carrier sales and supp

Follow The Freight Pod and host Andrew Silver on LinkedIn.

*** This episode is brought to you by Rapido Solutions Group. I had the pleasure of working with Danny Frisco and Roberto Icaza at Coyote, as well as being a client of theirs more recently at MoLo. Their team does a great job supplying nearshore talent to brokers, carriers, and technology providers to handle any role necessary, be it customer or carrier support, back office, or tech services. Visit gorapido.com to learn more.

A special thanks to our additional sponsors:

• Cargado – Cargado is the first platform that connects logistics companies and trucking companies that move freight into and out of Mexico. Visit cargado.com to learn more.
• Greenscreens.ai – Greenscreens.ai is the AI-powered pricing and market intelligence tool transforming how freight brokers price freight. Visit greenscreens.ai/freightpod today!
• Metafora – Metafora is a technology consulting firm that has delivered value for over a decade to brokers, shippers, carriers, private equity firms, and freight tech companies. Check them out at metafora.net. ***

Episode summary written by AI:

Have you ever considered the strategic precision and leadership valor honed in the military's high-pressure environment could translate into business triumph? Jim Steger, CEO of Integrity Express Logistics, joins us to share his remarkable pivot from Air Force officer to founder of a leading logistics firm. His insights into maintaining global military logistics translate into a masterclass on resilience, adaptability, and the art of management under the most trying conditions.

Wartime strategies and boardroom tactics aren't as disparate as they seem, and you'll find out why as we discuss how the 'servant leader' model and a relentless focus on employee enrichment form the backbone of a successful enterprise. Steger's narrative is a powerful illustration of how a foundational belief in the potential of people can be a catalyst for industry-leading customer satisfaction. We'll uncover the birth of Integrity Express Logistics, rising from a basement venture to a company making strategic technological investments and opening 17 offices nationwide.

Step aboard as we navigate the intersections of entrepreneurship, tech innovation, and the no-small-feat of fostering a culture that champions growth, both for the business and its people. From tales of humble beginnings to a grand vision of reaching $5 billion in revenue, this episode is an expedition through the challenges, achievements, and the indomitable spirit that shapes a billion-dollar success story. Join us for a conversation that celebrates the tactical finesse of military experience repurposed to conquer the dynamic terrain of freight management.

***This episode is brought to you by Rapido Solutions Group.
Rapido connects logistics and supply chain organizations in North America with the best nearshore talent to scale efficiently, operate on par with US-based teams, and deliver superior customer service.
Rapido works with businesses from all sides of the logistics industry — including 3PLs, carriers, and logistics software companies. Rapido builds out teams with roles across customer and carrier sales and support, back-office administration, and technology services.
The team at Rapido knows logistics and people — it’s what sets them apart. Rapido is driven by an inside knowledge of how to recruit, hire, and train within the logistics industry and a passion to build better solutions for success. Learn more about the Rapido solution and begin buil

Follow The Freight Pod and host Andrew Silver on LinkedIn.

*** This episode is brought to you by Rapido Solutions Group. I had the pleasure of working with Danny Frisco and Roberto Icaza at Coyote, as well as being a client of theirs more recently at MoLo. Their team does a great job supplying nearshore talent to brokers, carriers, and technology providers to handle any role necessary, be it customer or carrier support, back office, or tech services. Visit gorapido.com to learn more.

A special thanks to our additional sponsors:

• Cargado – Cargado is the first platform that connects logistics companies and trucking companies that move freight into and out of Mexico. Visit cargado.com to learn more.
• Greenscreens.ai – Greenscreens.ai is the AI-powered pricing and market intelligence tool transforming how freight brokers price freight. Visit greenscreens.ai/freightpod today!
• Metafora – Metafora is a technology consulting firm that has delivered value for over a decade to brokers, shippers, carriers, private equity firms, and freight tech companies. Check them out at metafora.net. ***

We are joined this week by entrepreneur and multiple-time founder, Prasad Gollapalli. Prasad got his start in the industry at the old school load board, GetLoaded, which was later acquired by DAT. From there, he began his entrepreneurial journey as he started TruckerTools. After a successful exit, he is now focusing his time and attention on the world of scheduling appointments, and bringing automation and AI to reduce the human touch on this mundane, but important task. His startup, Qued, is receiving a lot of attention in the industry as one of the first players to tackle the appointment scheduling problem.

Our conversation weaves in and out of the startups we've been a part of, as we discuss the challenges and opportunities of building businesses in the freight sector. Prasad provides great insight and advice to logistics professionals and future entrepreneurs. 

***Episode brought to you by Rapido Solutions Group. I had the pleasure of working with Danny Frisco and Roberto Icaza at Coyote, as well as being a client of theirs more recently at MoLo. Their team does a great job supplying nearshore talent to brokers, carriers, and technology providers to handle any role necessary, be it customer or carrier support, back office, or tech services.***

Follow The Freight Pod and host Andrew Silver on LinkedIn.

*** This episode is brought to you by Rapido Solutions Group. I had the pleasure of working with Danny Frisco and Roberto Icaza at Coyote, as well as being a client of theirs more recently at MoLo. Their team does a great job supplying nearshore talent to brokers, carriers, and technology providers to handle any role necessary, be it customer or carrier support, back office, or tech services. Visit gorapido.com to learn more.

A special thanks to our additional sponsors:

• Cargado – Cargado is the first platform that connects logistics companies and trucking companies that move freight into and out of Mexico. Visit cargado.com to learn more.
• Greenscreens.ai – Greenscreens.ai is the AI-powered pricing and market intelligence tool transforming how freight brokers price freight. Visit greenscreens.ai/freightpod today!
• Metafora – Metafora is a technology consulting firm that has delivered value for over a decade to brokers, shippers, carriers, private equity firms, and freight tech companies. Check them out at metafora.net. ***

We are joined this week by Kendra Tucker, CEO of Truckstop. Our conversation starts with Kendra's pre-freight career, where she earned an International Studies degree at University of Chicago before spending the bulk of her professional time helping build CEB into an organic $500 million organization. She began in the Product org but found an adeptness at working with and understanding the needs of CEB's customers, which eventually led her to the Sales org.  She rose the ranks over her twelve years with CEB and learned invaluable lessons that she still applies today at Truckstop.

One point that was abundantly clear in our conversation was the importance of having empathy for, and understanding, the customer. Truckstop's customer base includes truck drivers and freight brokers. As Kendra came into her role at Truckstop, one of the first things she did was a ride-along with an owner operator, Wayne, and longtime Truckstop customer. This experience opened her eyes to the day-to-day life of our nation's truck drivers, and Kendra felt a relatability to many drivers with a similar immigrant backstory to her own. One truth for Kendra from this experience was the validity of the American dream, something Truckstop is helping it's customers pursue through it's technology platform to improve the life and productivity of America's truck drivers.

As the conversation progresses, we talk about the evolution and maturation of Truckstop over the years. We talk about business strategy, and how Truckstop is focused on trust as a pillar to drive growth across the entire life cycle of a load. Through acquisitions, Truckstop has moved into factoring, carrier identity through RMIS, and productivity through FreightFriend. Truckstop wants to be the place that truckers can come to make their business better, end to end. 

We close our journey with an exploration of the critical role trust and transparency play within the freight community. As we delve into Truckstop's strategic endeavors to combat fraud and enhance broker confidence, we also examine the human side of tech business. Kendra Tucker's rise to CEO is a testament to the transformative power of personal growth, empathy in leadership, and the enduring bonds within the transport sector. It's a narrative that celebrates the complexity, community, and the often-overlooked allure of the freight industry—an industry that tends to hook its professionals for a lifetime.

***This episode is brought to you by Rapido

Follow The Freight Pod and host Andrew Silver on LinkedIn.

*** This episode is brought to you by Rapido Solutions Group. I had the pleasure of working with Danny Frisco and Roberto Icaza at Coyote, as well as being a client of theirs more recently at MoLo. Their team does a great job supplying nearshore talent to brokers, carriers, and technology providers to handle any role necessary, be it customer or carrier support, back office, or tech services. Visit gorapido.com to learn more.

A special thanks to our additional sponsors:

• Cargado – Cargado is the first platform that connects logistics companies and trucking companies that move freight into and out of Mexico. Visit cargado.com to learn more.
• Greenscreens.ai – Greenscreens.ai is the AI-powered pricing and market intelligence tool transforming how freight brokers price freight. Visit greenscreens.ai/freightpod today!
• Metafora – Metafora is a technology consulting firm that has delivered value for over a decade to brokers, shippers, carriers, private equity firms, and freight tech companies. Check them out at metafora.net. ***

Another episode summary written by AI- hope you enjoy:
We are joined this week by Felipe Capella, co-founder and CEO of Loadsmart, whose career leap from law to logistics embodies the spirit of innovation. Discover how Felipe's decision to embrace risk and innovative ideas propelled Loadsmart from skepticism about algorithmic pricing to a leader in automated, instant pricing. Our conversation centers on how Loadsmart has built it's business around technology advancements, highlighting successes and lessons learned.

Stepping into the boots of a logistics pioneer, we navigate the complexities of leading a tech-driven company amidst resistance to change, underscoring the importance of customer-centric solutions. The dialogue ventures into the realm of managed transportation services, examining their potential to redefine operations for mid-sized shippers. We also unpack the strategic pivot towards offering high-margin Software as a Service (SaaS) and the utilization of vast data troves to enhance logistics operations, highlighting how these initiatives are reshaping Loadsmart's business model and identity.

Looking to the horizon, the episode maps out the future terrain for Loadsmart and the freight brokerage industry at large. With an eye on growth and revenue opportunities, we dissect strategic initiatives like driver loyalty programs and the impact of API technology on brokerage margins. As we tie up the conversation, we reflect on the market's skepticism and Loadsmart's disciplined financial strategy, leaving you with a rich tapestry of insights into the visionary leadership and innovative technology steering the logistics industry towards new frontiers.

***This episode is brought to you by Rapido Solutions Group.
Rapido connects logistics and supply chain organizations in North America with the best nearshore talent to scale efficiently, operate on par with US-based teams, and deliver superior customer service.
Rapido works with businesses from all sides of the logistics industry — including 3PLs, carriers, and logistics software companies. Rapido builds out teams with roles across customer and carrier sales and support, back-office administration, and technology services.
The team at Rapido knows logistics and people — it’s what sets them apart. Rapido is driven by an inside knowledge of how to recruit, hire, and train within the logistics industry and a passion to build better solutions for success. Learn more about the Rapido so

Follow The Freight Pod and host Andrew Silver on LinkedIn.

*** This episode is brought to you by Rapido Solutions Group. I had the pleasure of working with Danny Frisco and Roberto Icaza at Coyote, as well as being a client of theirs more recently at MoLo. Their team does a great job supplying nearshore talent to brokers, carriers, and technology providers to handle any role necessary, be it customer or carrier support, back office, or tech services. Visit gorapido.com to learn more.

A special thanks to our additional sponsors:

• Cargado – Cargado is the first platform that connects logistics companies and trucking companies that move freight into and out of Mexico. Visit cargado.com to learn more.
• Greenscreens.ai – Greenscreens.ai is the AI-powered pricing and market intelligence tool transforming how freight brokers price freight. Visit greenscreens.ai/freightpod today!
• Metafora – Metafora is a technology consulting firm that has delivered value for over a decade to brokers, shippers, carriers, private equity firms, and freight tech companies. Check them out at metafora.net. ***

We are joined on this week's episode by CEO of Trucker Tools, Kary Jablonski. We begin by discussing the power of personal branding through social media. Through our candid conversation, we reveal how authenticity isn't just a buzzword—it's the hidden currency of LinkedIn, fostering genuine connections and opening doors to untold business opportunities. Kary’s insights into social media's role in the freight world, from transparent communication to product testing, are indispensable for anyone looking to elevate their professional game.

On her personal journey from consulting to helping scale Uber's operations, Kary shares the valuable lessons learned about leadership within the tech and freight landscapes. We discuss the abrupt twists that come with working in dynamic environments, and how these experiences forge resilience and strategic acumen. As Kary and I swap stories, we highlight the importance of customer success, humility, and the magic of showing up as your true self in professional spaces—a strategy that translates into growth and success.

We dive into the business of Trucker Tools, understanding how so much of their success is centered on the product they've built out for drivers. By focusing on creating a great tool for drivers, they've given themselves a great entry point to support brokers in their increasing need for visibility load by load. As their business has grown, they've recognized the value of integrations and partnerships to expand their abilities to serve their customers. We talk about all this, plus what the future holds for Trucker Tools as Kary's team continues to grow.

The episode wraps up with deep dives into the challenges newly-appointed CEOs face, from navigating post-acquisition transitions to making strategic hires during industry downturns. Learn from our experiences as we discuss the approaches to fostering a leadership style that empowers teams and prioritizes dynamics, while acknowledging the personal obstacles we face, such as impatience. Join us for this episode, packed with authentic discussion and strategic insights that promise to resonate with professionals across industries.

Follow The Freight Pod and host Andrew Silver on LinkedIn.

*** This episode is brought to you by Rapido Solutions Group. I had the pleasure of working with Danny Frisco and Roberto Icaza at Coyote, as well as being a client of theirs more recently at MoLo. Their team does a great job supplying nearshore talent to brokers, carriers, and technology providers to handle any role necessary, be it customer or carrier support, back office, or tech services. Visit gorapido.com to learn more.

A special thanks to our additional sponsors:

• Cargado – Cargado is the first platform that connects logistics companies and trucking companies that move freight into and out of Mexico. Visit cargado.com to learn more.
• Greenscreens.ai – Greenscreens.ai is the AI-powered pricing and market intelligence tool transforming how freight brokers price freight. Visit greenscreens.ai/freightpod today!
• Metafora – Metafora is a technology consulting firm that has delivered value for over a decade to brokers, shippers, carriers, private equity firms, and freight tech companies. Check them out at metafora.net. ***

When life throws a curveball, some craft an entire new ballpark—meet Jordan Graft, CEO of Highway, who sits with us today to reflect on the indelible marks of entrepreneurship and personal growth. Hear how he harnessed his experiences as a three-time CEO before the age of 40 to carve out success amidst the bustling freight industry. Our exchange offers a glimpse into Jordan's transformative journey: from embracing unexpected fatherhood and pioneering a grocery delivery venture, to influencing the freight brokerage sector as a Batman of freight fraud.

Navigating the freight industry's high seas, Jordan joins me to unravel the fabric of his entrepreneurial endeavors, marked with stories of resilience, patience, and the unwavering support of family. Our heartfelt conversation sails through the evolution of personal relationships in challenging times, the rise and fall of business ventures, and the milestones along the path to leadership. Jordan's narrative is a testament to the entrepreneurial spirit—coding out of necessity, pivoting from ventures that no longer serve, and the pursuit of innovation that meets the freight industry's pressing needs.

Tune in as we dissect the intricacies of the freight world, from combating sophisticated freight scams to crafting responsive customer service with a team that's as vigilant as they are dedicated. Jordan's insights on hiring with integrity, fostering workplace loyalty, and improving industry communication shine a light on the core values that drive success. Whether you're an industry veteran or a curious newcomer, this episode is brimming with tales of perseverance, the joy of translating ideas into action, and the relentless dedication to creating value in a complex yet rewarding field.

Follow The Freight Pod and host Andrew Silver on LinkedIn.

*** This episode is brought to you by Rapido Solutions Group. I had the pleasure of working with Danny Frisco and Roberto Icaza at Coyote, as well as being a client of theirs more recently at MoLo. Their team does a great job supplying nearshore talent to brokers, carriers, and technology providers to handle any role necessary, be it customer or carrier support, back office, or tech services. Visit gorapido.com to learn more.

A special thanks to our additional sponsors:

• Cargado – Cargado is the first platform that connects logistics companies and trucking companies that move freight into and out of Mexico. Visit cargado.com to learn more.
• Greenscreens.ai – Greenscreens.ai is the AI-powered pricing and market intelligence tool transforming how freight brokers price freight. Visit greenscreens.ai/freightpod today!
• Metafora – Metafora is a technology consulting firm that has delivered value for over a decade to brokers, shippers, carriers, private equity firms, and freight tech companies. Check them out at metafora.net. ***

Resilience isn't just a buzzword; it's the lifeblood that fuels personal triumphs over professional stumbling blocks. Andrew is joined on this episode by Eddie Leshin, an industry veteran whose career dates back to the early days of American Backhaulers.

This episode is a treasure trove of brokerage insight, but we start with some credit to the Michigan Wolverines, National Champions, and the inspiring story of running back Donovan Edwards, who demonstrated unwavering mental strength amidst adversity.

We dissect the intricacies of non-compete periods in the professional world, revealing the emotional trials and the ultimate journey towards growth. You'll be captivated by our reflections on entrepreneurship within the logistics industry, the debate over non-compete clauses, and the significant role technology plays in transforming the brokerage landscape from its manual roots to the digital forefront.

As we peel back the layers of leadership and mentorship, Eddie opens up about the evolution of his own leadership styles, transitioning from an immersive role to one of advisory. We share the personal stories that affirm the weight of mentorship, the essence of trust, and the satisfaction derived from guiding others to success. The episode further examines the seismic shifts within the logistics industry, contemplating the burgeoning field of managed transportation and strategic maneuvers in the competitive freight market. Listen as we lay bare the emotions of life and loss, underscoring the profound influence these experiences have on our approach to parenting and the legacy we aspire to leave.

Navigating the aftermath of COVID-19's upheaval in the trucking and transportation sector, we discuss the imbalance it has wrought upon supply and demand. The conversation sets the stage for a candid look at the potential for a market correction, the cruciality of strategic partnerships, and the essence of transparency in these complex times. As Eddie and I draw this heartfelt conversation to a close, we leave you with musings on economic outlooks, life lessons, and the anticipation for what the future holds. Join us for an episode that transcends the realms of industry insights and personal narratives, weaving a tapestry rich with experience and wisdom.

Follow The Freight Pod and host Andrew Silver on LinkedIn.

*** This episode is brought to you by Rapido Solutions Group. I had the pleasure of working with Danny Frisco and Roberto Icaza at Coyote, as well as being a client of theirs more recently at MoLo. Their team does a great job supplying nearshore talent to brokers, carriers, and technology providers to handle any role necessary, be it customer or carrier support, back office, or tech services. Visit gorapido.com to learn more.

A special thanks to our additional sponsors:

• Cargado – Cargado is the first platform that connects logistics companies and trucking companies that move freight into and out of Mexico. Visit cargado.com to learn more.
• Greenscreens.ai – Greenscreens.ai is the AI-powered pricing and market intelligence tool transforming how freight brokers price freight. Visit greenscreens.ai/freightpod today!
• Metafora – Metafora is a technology consulting firm that has delivered value for over a decade to brokers, shippers, carriers, private equity firms, and freight tech companies. Check them out at metafora.net. ***

Dawn Salvucci-Favier, CEO of Greenscreens.ai, shares her transformative adventure from an administrative assistant to leading a pioneer predictive pricing platform in the truckload spot freight industry (soon to be beyond spot). Her narrative is a riveting tale of seizing opportunities, the impact of mentorship, and the evolution of logistics from a world of manual route planning to the cutting-edge technological advancements that are reshaping how we think about transportation and supply chain management today.

Tune in to uncover the behind-the-scenes of the logistics software industry and what it takes to build a successful startup in this competitive space. Dawn's candid recount of her transition from retail giants like TJX Companies and Staples to the startup world paints a vivid picture of the flexibility, talent acquisition, and sheer determination required to not only survive but thrive. Trace the steps Dawn took in helping to build 3GTMS and learn how she navigated her career through emotional and practical challenges, ultimately finding her resilience and support network instrumental in joining Greenscreens.ai.

This episode isn't just a career chronicle; it's an education in the power of data, strategic partnerships, and the foresight to stay neutral for future growth. Delve into the intricacies of ecosystem collaboration in TMS, the strategic significance of neutrality for start-ups, and how Greenscreens.ai's platform uses big data and machine learning for real-time pricing predictions. Whether you're in the logistics field, fascinated by startup cultures, or looking for inspiration to pivot in your career, Dawn's journey offers a wealth of insight into the continuous innovation driving the freight industry forward.

Follow The Freight Pod and host Andrew Silver on LinkedIn.

*** This episode is brought to you by Rapido Solutions Group. I had the pleasure of working with Danny Frisco and Roberto Icaza at Coyote, as well as being a client of theirs more recently at MoLo. Their team does a great job supplying nearshore talent to brokers, carriers, and technology providers to handle any role necessary, be it customer or carrier support, back office, or tech services. Visit gorapido.com to learn more.

A special thanks to our additional sponsors:

• Cargado – Cargado is the first platform that connects logistics companies and trucking companies that move freight into and out of Mexico. Visit cargado.com to learn more.
• Greenscreens.ai – Greenscreens.ai is the AI-powered pricing and market intelligence tool transforming how freight brokers price freight. Visit greenscreens.ai/freightpod today!
• Metafora – Metafora is a technology consulting firm that has delivered value for over a decade to brokers, shippers, carriers, private equity firms, and freight tech companies. Check them out at metafora.net. ***

Matt Vogrich joins the show to share his story. Once known as the "Mop-Topped Assassin", Matt enjoyed an illustrious basketball career, being recognized as the Gatorade Player of the Year in Illinois his senior year of high school before joining John Beilein and the Michigan Wolverines for college. From there, he helped his team over a four-year stretch go from a losing record to playing in the national championship his senior year. He shares his stories and lessons learned from playing for one of the best coaches in the country. 

We then jump into the MoLo story. With zero experience in freight, Matt founded MoLo Solutions and led it from 0 to $600 million in annual revenue in just four years, while the company also received accolades every year for being the top brokerage workplace in Chicago. We swap stories dating back to the initial planning days before moving our first load, to the challenges of leading through Covid, to eventually selling the company.

Follow The Freight Pod and host Andrew Silver on LinkedIn.

*** This episode is brought to you by Rapido Solutions Group. I had the pleasure of working with Danny Frisco and Roberto Icaza at Coyote, as well as being a client of theirs more recently at MoLo. Their team does a great job supplying nearshore talent to brokers, carriers, and technology providers to handle any role necessary, be it customer or carrier support, back office, or tech services. Visit gorapido.com to learn more.

A special thanks to our additional sponsors:

• Cargado – Cargado is the first platform that connects logistics companies and trucking companies that move freight into and out of Mexico. Visit cargado.com to learn more.
• Greenscreens.ai – Greenscreens.ai is the AI-powered pricing and market intelligence tool transforming how freight brokers price freight. Visit greenscreens.ai/freightpod today!
• Metafora – Metafora is a technology consulting firm that has delivered value for over a decade to brokers, shippers, carriers, private equity firms, and freight tech companies. Check them out at metafora.net. ***

AI-written episode description:

What happens when you combine an unwavering entrepreneurial spirit, a fascination with the trucking industry, and a passion for tech innovation? You get a riveting discussion with our guest, Brian Cristol, Founder and CEO of Isometric Technologies. His journey traverses his time in investment banking, his pivot to the tech world, his experiences with college football, and his path to entrepreneurship with Iso. Listen as we share stories from his past and gain valuable insights into his mindset that has led to his success in the logistics tech industry.

Our conversation keeps you on your toes as we transition from sports to banking, and eventually land in the world of startups. Brian shares the challenges he faced while making the leap from a secure job in finance to a tech startup, and his journey at Uber Freight. We chat about sales tactics, creative subject lines, and the importance of empathy in the trucking industry. We also explore the birth of Uber Freight, the skepticism it faced, and its ultimate success.

As we wind down, Brian shares his plans for his business, Iso, with a focus on the challenges traditional scorecard systems pose and the potential of a digital infrastructure to enhance partnerships. We discuss the idea of a FICO-type guide for freight brokers and a service index. This episode is a treasure chest of stories about overcoming adversity, insightful discussions, and valuable lessons. So tune in, it's time to hit the road!

Follow The Freight Pod and host Andrew Silver on LinkedIn.

*** This episode is brought to you by Rapido Solutions Group. I had the pleasure of working with Danny Frisco and Roberto Icaza at Coyote, as well as being a client of theirs more recently at MoLo. Their team does a great job supplying nearshore talent to brokers, carriers, and technology providers to handle any role necessary, be it customer or carrier support, back office, or tech services. Visit gorapido.com to learn more.

A special thanks to our additional sponsors:

• Cargado – Cargado is the first platform that connects logistics companies and trucking companies that move freight into and out of Mexico. Visit cargado.com to learn more.
• Greenscreens.ai – Greenscreens.ai is the AI-powered pricing and market intelligence tool transforming how freight brokers price freight. Visit greenscreens.ai/freightpod today!
• Metafora – Metafora is a technology consulting firm that has delivered value for over a decade to brokers, shippers, carriers, private equity firms, and freight tech companies. Check them out at metafora.net. ***

What if you could gain insight from a man who started as a sales guy and climbed the ladder all the way to CEO of a publicly traded brokerage? Our guest this week, Drew Wilkerson, takes us on a thrilling journey of his career, and if you're a fan of incredible success stories, you're in for a treat. From his humble beginnings at CH Robinson in 2006, Drew shares how he harnessed the power of relationships and excellent customer service to rise through the ranks to where he is today - at the helm of RXO.

This episode could serve as a masterclass on leadership, as Drew walks us through how he went from being an individual contributor to eventually overseeing 7,500 people today. He talks about the importance of transparency, alignment of employees through a powerful mission and pointed surveys, an open-door policy, and more. It's no surprise Brad Jacobs saw the potential and chose to mentor him, which made him an excellent fit to lead RXO as it was spun-off from XPO as the new asset-light transportation business.

We hit on additional specific topics including managing through COVID, making and communicating difficult decisions around in-office versus remote work policies, dealing with investors in the public eye, and much more. 

Enjoy this episode of The Freight Pod.

Follow The Freight Pod and host Andrew Silver on LinkedIn.

*** This episode is brought to you by Rapido Solutions Group. I had the pleasure of working with Danny Frisco and Roberto Icaza at Coyote, as well as being a client of theirs more recently at MoLo. Their team does a great job supplying nearshore talent to brokers, carriers, and technology providers to handle any role necessary, be it customer or carrier support, back office, or tech services. Visit gorapido.com to learn more.

A special thanks to our additional sponsors:

• Cargado – Cargado is the first platform that connects logistics companies and trucking companies that move freight into and out of Mexico. Visit cargado.com to learn more.
• Greenscreens.ai – Greenscreens.ai is the AI-powered pricing and market intelligence tool transforming how freight brokers price freight. Visit greenscreens.ai/freightpod today!
• Metafora – Metafora is a technology consulting firm that has delivered value for over a decade to brokers, shippers, carriers, private equity firms, and freight tech companies. Check them out at metafora.net. ***

Another (mostly) AI-written episode description:

We're thrilled to bring you this discussion with Bill Driegert, EVP, Head of North America at Flexport. Bill was previously the 4th employee at Coyote Logistics and then co-founder of Uber Freight. He takes us on an enthralling journey through his illustrious career and the landscape of the freight industry. This episode packs a punch, offering you an exclusive peek into the challenges, triumphs, and future of the freight market. Whether you're a logistics pro or a curious bystander, get ready to be enlightened on tech's role in advancing this traditional industry.

Imagine the excitement of being part of Coyote Logistics' initial days or the thrill of breathing life into Uber Freight! This episode takes you there! Bill candidly shares his insights about Coyote's pioneering journey, from attracting the right talent to the challenges of launching a brokerage from scratch. Discussion further navigates through the inception of Uber Freight, shedding light on their vision of disrupting the freight industry. We also touch upon the trials of automating the carrier experience, the potential of AI in transportation, and the delicate balance between technology and personal touch in customer care.

Our conversation doesn't stop there! We dive into the nitty-gritty of pricing models, the pros and cons of tech fragmentation, and the changing dynamics of owner operators in the market. As we further dissect the operational intricacies, Bill shares his hopes after acquiring the Convoy technology and the role it can play within Flexport. The discussion wraps with a glimpse into the future of transportation, the potential of autonomous vehicles, and the impact of digital models. Brace yourself for this rollercoaster of insights, stories, and perspectives from another great guest.

Follow The Freight Pod and host Andrew Silver on LinkedIn.

*** This episode is brought to you by Rapido Solutions Group. I had the pleasure of working with Danny Frisco and Roberto Icaza at Coyote, as well as being a client of theirs more recently at MoLo. Their team does a great job supplying nearshore talent to brokers, carriers, and technology providers to handle any role necessary, be it customer or carrier support, back office, or tech services. Visit gorapido.com to learn more.

A special thanks to our additional sponsors:

• Cargado – Cargado is the first platform that connects logistics companies and trucking companies that move freight into and out of Mexico. Visit cargado.com to learn more.
• Greenscreens.ai – Greenscreens.ai is the AI-powered pricing and market intelligence tool transforming how freight brokers price freight. Visit greenscreens.ai/freightpod today!
• Metafora – Metafora is a technology consulting firm that has delivered value for over a decade to brokers, shippers, carriers, private equity firms, and freight tech companies. Check them out at metafora.net. ***

After 6 months of mental back-and-forth, I finally pulled the trigger and recorded a solo episode. No more self-doubt, no more negative self-talk, no more procrastinating. 

Today's theme is Just Do It. 

Hope you enjoy. 

***Episode brought to you by Rapido Solutions Group. I had the pleasure of working with Danny Frisco and Roberto Icaza at Coyote, as well as being a client of theirs more recently at MoLo. Their team does a great job supplying nearshore talent to brokers, carriers, and technology providers to handle any role necessary, be it customer or carrier support, back office, or tech services.***

Follow The Freight Pod and host Andrew Silver on LinkedIn.

*** This episode is brought to you by Rapido Solutions Group. I had the pleasure of working with Danny Frisco and Roberto Icaza at Coyote, as well as being a client of theirs more recently at MoLo. Their team does a great job supplying nearshore talent to brokers, carriers, and technology providers to handle any role necessary, be it customer or carrier support, back office, or tech services. Visit gorapido.com to learn more.

A special thanks to our additional sponsors:

• Cargado – Cargado is the first platform that connects logistics companies and trucking companies that move freight into and out of Mexico. Visit cargado.com to learn more.
• Greenscreens.ai – Greenscreens.ai is the AI-powered pricing and market intelligence tool transforming how freight brokers price freight. Visit greenscreens.ai/freightpod today!
• Metafora – Metafora is a technology consulting firm that has delivered value for over a decade to brokers, shippers, carriers, private equity firms, and freight tech companies. Check them out at metafora.net. ***

We are joined this week by Matt Pyatt, CEO of Arrive Logistics, a $2 billion revenue freight brokerage based in Austin, TX.

Matt's work ethic and entrepreneurial spirit were strong from an early age, as he took his first job working on a farm at the age of 10. He worked various jobs growing up, before starting his first businesses in college. He talks about the valuable lessons learned in his early businesses before joining Command Transportation as a sales rep after graduating.

Matt and his partner, Eric Dunigan, founded Arrive Logistics; he shares their story and all the important aspects to building a successful brokerage.

The conversation takes an interesting turn as we discuss Matt's strategic approach to scaling business growth. He shares his strategies, from efficient resource allocation to effective capital management, and the importance of incentivizing employees. Furthermore, we probe into the potential disruptions in the freight industry and the outlook for brokers in the challenging months ahead. 

Toward the end, Matt walks us through his thoughts on the future of the freight industry. He elaborates on his vision for Arrive, leaving us intrigued and excited for the prospects. This episode is a testament to the power of reflection, the value of learning from experiences, and the necessity of adapting to evolving circumstances. Join us for this stimulating conversation that explores the nuances of building a successful business, celebrating accomplishments, and planning for the future.

Follow The Freight Pod and host Andrew Silver on LinkedIn.

*** This episode is brought to you by Rapido Solutions Group. I had the pleasure of working with Danny Frisco and Roberto Icaza at Coyote, as well as being a client of theirs more recently at MoLo. Their team does a great job supplying nearshore talent to brokers, carriers, and technology providers to handle any role necessary, be it customer or carrier support, back office, or tech services. Visit gorapido.com to learn more.

A special thanks to our additional sponsors:

• Cargado – Cargado is the first platform that connects logistics companies and trucking companies that move freight into and out of Mexico. Visit cargado.com to learn more.
• Greenscreens.ai – Greenscreens.ai is the AI-powered pricing and market intelligence tool transforming how freight brokers price freight. Visit greenscreens.ai/freightpod today!
• Metafora – Metafora is a technology consulting firm that has delivered value for over a decade to brokers, shippers, carriers, private equity firms, and freight tech companies. Check them out at metafora.net. ***

With Andrew attending the Freightwaves conference in Chattanooga, we start the episode sharing stories of our experiences at industry conferences. We talk about what it's like to be a broker and shipper at these events, and how to make the most of your time when attending. 

Our guest for the episode is Meredith Neizer, Chief Logistics Officer at Armada. Meredith has had a fascinating career in the industry, but taking it back to her youth, we talk about how she broke barriers as the first female to ever attend the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy. This set the tone for the rest of her career, as she came into a male-dominated industry and found ways time and again to break glass ceilings for herself. 

We talk about the value of mentorship, networking, and taking chances on yourself. Meredith highlights how a solid network can be a game-changer in one's career trajectory. We also delve into the need for increased diversity in the logistics industry and the steps necessary to achieve it. From exploring the latest innovations in supply chain solutions to discussing effective sales strategies in freight, this episode provides a wealth of knowledge. So, buckle up for an episode brimming with inspiring stories, valuable advice, and game-changing experiences.

Follow The Freight Pod and host Andrew Silver on LinkedIn.

*** This episode is brought to you by Rapido Solutions Group. I had the pleasure of working with Danny Frisco and Roberto Icaza at Coyote, as well as being a client of theirs more recently at MoLo. Their team does a great job supplying nearshore talent to brokers, carriers, and technology providers to handle any role necessary, be it customer or carrier support, back office, or tech services. Visit gorapido.com to learn more.

A special thanks to our additional sponsors:

• Cargado – Cargado is the first platform that connects logistics companies and trucking companies that move freight into and out of Mexico. Visit cargado.com to learn more.
• Greenscreens.ai – Greenscreens.ai is the AI-powered pricing and market intelligence tool transforming how freight brokers price freight. Visit greenscreens.ai/freightpod today!
• Metafora – Metafora is a technology consulting firm that has delivered value for over a decade to brokers, shippers, carriers, private equity firms, and freight tech companies. Check them out at metafora.net. ***

AI-written episode description:
Success rarely follows a straight path. Our guest, Cameron Ramsdell, will attest to that. As the CEO of Armstrong Transport Group, he has weathered the storm of transitions, been shaped by mentorship, and emerged as a leading voice in the industry. Journey with us as we explore the winding road of his career, starting from his time at Coyote Logistics, leading a new division at US Xpress, and finally clinching his role at Armstrong Transport Group. 

Delve into the topic of mentorship and its profound influence on career progression. Cameron discusses how the guidance and support of mentors and peers has helped him grow and steer through the complexities of the industry. We dig into the evolution of Coyote, the freight brokerage industry's transformation over the years, and the impact of refusing to say no when faced with a challenge. 

In the second half of our conversation, we zero in on Cameron's experience navigating new roles and organizational changes amidst uncertain times. He shares the personal sacrifices he made while relocating from Chicago to Atlanta. Cameron's story of transitioning from a legacy business to a dedicated division is a testament to resilience and adaptability. We wrap up by exploring his current role at Armstrong Transport Group and his vision for its future. An episode jam-packed with insights from the logistics industry awaits you. Get ready to be inspired!

Follow The Freight Pod and host Andrew Silver on LinkedIn.

*** This episode is brought to you by Rapido Solutions Group. I had the pleasure of working with Danny Frisco and Roberto Icaza at Coyote, as well as being a client of theirs more recently at MoLo. Their team does a great job supplying nearshore talent to brokers, carriers, and technology providers to handle any role necessary, be it customer or carrier support, back office, or tech services. Visit gorapido.com to learn more.

A special thanks to our additional sponsors:

• Cargado – Cargado is the first platform that connects logistics companies and trucking companies that move freight into and out of Mexico. Visit cargado.com to learn more.
• Greenscreens.ai – Greenscreens.ai is the AI-powered pricing and market intelligence tool transforming how freight brokers price freight. Visit greenscreens.ai/freightpod today!
• Metafora – Metafora is a technology consulting firm that has delivered value for over a decade to brokers, shippers, carriers, private equity firms, and freight tech companies. Check them out at metafora.net. ***

AI takes the helm to write another captivating episode description for us. Enjoy Episode 6:

Ever wondered how one man could turn a company from the brink of bankruptcy into a thriving venture? Enter Mitch Luciano, the CEO of Trailer Bridge who did exactly that. Our chat with Mitch goes beyond the usual corporate jargon and delves into his journey of securing the helm of a ship that was almost sinking. From his audacious move of joining a company going through its worst phase to transforming its toxic culture, Mitch's narrative is a testament to how leadership can make or break a company. Stick around as we unravel his transition from a "carrier guy" to a key decision-maker in the freight industry.

But that's not all. Our conversation takes an interesting turn as we explore the nitty-gritty of the freight industry. Unveiling the often blurred lines between brokerage and asset sales relationships, Mitch shares his insights on the significance of transparency and trust in these complicated dynamics. He also explains the unique challenge of owning assets, the cost involved, and how it often leads to the downfall of brokerage businesses. Intrigued? Buckle up for an enlightening discussion.

Lastly, we steer the conversation towards the softer aspects of business. Ever given a thought to how love could be a driving force in a business setting? Mitch's emphasis on people, accountability, and even his rather unconventional idea of getting an ice maker, paints a vivid picture of how trust and love can transform a company's culture. From writing birthday cards to his employees to revealing his decision-making process, Mitch's leadership style is a refreshing take on corporate leadership. So, if you're up for a candid chat about freight, leadership and even a secret pasta sauce recipe, this episode is a must-listen!

Follow The Freight Pod and host Andrew Silver on LinkedIn.

*** This episode is brought to you by Rapido Solutions Group. I had the pleasure of working with Danny Frisco and Roberto Icaza at Coyote, as well as being a client of theirs more recently at MoLo. Their team does a great job supplying nearshore talent to brokers, carriers, and technology providers to handle any role necessary, be it customer or carrier support, back office, or tech services. Visit gorapido.com to learn more.

A special thanks to our additional sponsors:

• Cargado – Cargado is the first platform that connects logistics companies and trucking companies that move freight into and out of Mexico. Visit cargado.com to learn more.
• Greenscreens.ai – Greenscreens.ai is the AI-powered pricing and market intelligence tool transforming how freight brokers price freight. Visit greenscreens.ai/freightpod today!
• Metafora – Metafora is a technology consulting firm that has delivered value for over a decade to brokers, shippers, carriers, private equity firms, and freight tech companies. Check them out at metafora.net. ***

Last week, Convoy announced it was shutting it's doors. We are joined by 3 guests: Ryan Soskin, who was employee #15 at Convoy, Zach Knobel, who was VP Enterprise Sales at Convoy, and John Marrinson, EVP at Wintrust Bank. 

Ryan and Zach take us through Convoy's journey, helping give perspective to how the company innovated and approached the industry. It's clear that Convoy found ways to create more efficiencies than many of it's competitors, but in the end, the organization ran out of cash. The Convoy story is a fascinating one, and we are lucky to have great guests to walk us through it.

We spend time with John Marrinson talking about what is coming for brokers and carriers. The impact of interest rates rising, abundant capacity, and squeezed margins is making life very challenging for brokers, and more trouble is coming. John paints the picture well to understand how all these factors come together.

Tune in for this special episode. 

Follow The Freight Pod and host Andrew Silver on LinkedIn.

*** This episode is brought to you by Rapido Solutions Group. I had the pleasure of working with Danny Frisco and Roberto Icaza at Coyote, as well as being a client of theirs more recently at MoLo. Their team does a great job supplying nearshore talent to brokers, carriers, and technology providers to handle any role necessary, be it customer or carrier support, back office, or tech services. Visit gorapido.com to learn more.

A special thanks to our additional sponsors:

• Cargado – Cargado is the first platform that connects logistics companies and trucking companies that move freight into and out of Mexico. Visit cargado.com to learn more.
• Greenscreens.ai – Greenscreens.ai is the AI-powered pricing and market intelligence tool transforming how freight brokers price freight. Visit greenscreens.ai/freightpod today!
• Metafora – Metafora is a technology consulting firm that has delivered value for over a decade to brokers, shippers, carriers, private equity firms, and freight tech companies. Check them out at metafora.net. ***

Another AI-written Episode Description for you this week:

We are joined this week by Ryan Daube, founder of Advantage Freight Network (AFN) and 240 Logistics. Listen in as Ryan, an Indiana University alumnus and former American Backhaulers employee, takes us through the trials and triumphs of his entrepreneurial journey. From scaling AFN to a staggering $250 million to his latest venture in the cannabis market, Ryan's story is one for the books!

Tune in as he shares the secrets of building a strong team and nurturing an intense sales culture at AFN. Learn about his unique "You Inc." concept that has played a critical role in shaping the company culture, promoting a spirit of entrepreneurship within the organization.

Hear Ryan's take on effective leadership and risk management, his belief in the power of constructive criticism, and his insights on personal growth. Find out why he decided to sell his business and how he's exploring opportunities in the fascinating world of cannabis supply chains. But it's not all business! Ryan also shares his passion for Camp Kawaga, a boys' summer camp, and the significant impact it has on children. Whether you're a budding entrepreneur or an established professional, this episode offers valuable lessons, inspiring stories, and practical advice. Listen now for a masterclass in entrepreneurship, leadership, and beyond.

Follow The Freight Pod and host Andrew Silver on LinkedIn.

*** This episode is brought to you by Rapido Solutions Group. I had the pleasure of working with Danny Frisco and Roberto Icaza at Coyote, as well as being a client of theirs more recently at MoLo. Their team does a great job supplying nearshore talent to brokers, carriers, and technology providers to handle any role necessary, be it customer or carrier support, back office, or tech services. Visit gorapido.com to learn more.

A special thanks to our additional sponsors:

• Cargado – Cargado is the first platform that connects logistics companies and trucking companies that move freight into and out of Mexico. Visit cargado.com to learn more.
• Greenscreens.ai – Greenscreens.ai is the AI-powered pricing and market intelligence tool transforming how freight brokers price freight. Visit greenscreens.ai/freightpod today!
• Metafora – Metafora is a technology consulting firm that has delivered value for over a decade to brokers, shippers, carriers, private equity firms, and freight tech companies. Check them out at metafora.net. ***

For fun, we let AI write the “Episode Description”. Enjoy:

Ready to conquer the freight industry? Prepare to have your mind expanded as we journey into the realms of leadership, success, and the future of freight with Doug Waggoner, CEO of one of the largest freight brokerages in the country. A wrestling enthusiast who developed a mobile app to track wrestling matches, Doug's passion and resilience have shaped every aspect of his life, career, and meditation practice.

From his early days in Kansas, through the transition to California, right up until the moment he became CEO of Echo Global Logistics, Doug's story is one of persistence and tenacity. His experiences reveal the undercurrents of his successful journey, including building a startup from the ground up, maintaining a high market cap, and transforming a public company into a private enterprise. We also delve into the pressures of answering to Wall Street and the struggles of generating enough flow for investors.

But there's more! As we wind down our enlightening discourse with Doug, we explore the potential of AI in the freight market and how it could revolutionize the industry. We venture into the future, discussing the lack of barriers in the industry and the potential for consolidation among brokerages. So, buckle up, and get ready for an intense, insight-packed journey with Doug Waggoner, a man who knows every inch of the freight industry like the back of his hand.

Follow The Freight Pod and host Andrew Silver on LinkedIn.

*** This episode is brought to you by Rapido Solutions Group. I had the pleasure of working with Danny Frisco and Roberto Icaza at Coyote, as well as being a client of theirs more recently at MoLo. Their team does a great job supplying nearshore talent to brokers, carriers, and technology providers to handle any role necessary, be it customer or carrier support, back office, or tech services. Visit gorapido.com to learn more.

A special thanks to our additional sponsors:

• Cargado – Cargado is the first platform that connects logistics companies and trucking companies that move freight into and out of Mexico. Visit cargado.com to learn more.
• Greenscreens.ai – Greenscreens.ai is the AI-powered pricing and market intelligence tool transforming how freight brokers price freight. Visit greenscreens.ai/freightpod today!
• Metafora – Metafora is a technology consulting firm that has delivered value for over a decade to brokers, shippers, carriers, private equity firms, and freight tech companies. Check them out at metafora.net. ***

Craig Fuller comes on the show for episode 3. We jump in with a conversation about LinkedIn versus Twitter, the role of media in our industry,  and the trust (or lack thereof) that the general public has for media in today's world. We do a deep dive into Craig's entrepreneurial journey, from his days working for his father at US Xpress, to eventually founding Freightwaves. We hit on the emotional toll of failure, and how Craig persevered through his own failures to turn Freightwaves into the company it is today. All this, and more in episode 3.

Follow The Freight Pod and host Andrew Silver on LinkedIn.

*** This episode is brought to you by Rapido Solutions Group. I had the pleasure of working with Danny Frisco and Roberto Icaza at Coyote, as well as being a client of theirs more recently at MoLo. Their team does a great job supplying nearshore talent to brokers, carriers, and technology providers to handle any role necessary, be it customer or carrier support, back office, or tech services. Visit gorapido.com to learn more.

A special thanks to our additional sponsors:

• Cargado – Cargado is the first platform that connects logistics companies and trucking companies that move freight into and out of Mexico. Visit cargado.com to learn more.
• Greenscreens.ai – Greenscreens.ai is the AI-powered pricing and market intelligence tool transforming how freight brokers price freight. Visit greenscreens.ai/freightpod today!
• Metafora – Metafora is a technology consulting firm that has delivered value for over a decade to brokers, shippers, carriers, private equity firms, and freight tech companies. Check them out at metafora.net. ***

Ted Alling joins us for episode 2. We discuss Ted's entrepreneurial journey, from his initial sales role at C.H. Robinson to founding Access America Transport, a company he eventually sold with over $500 million annual revenue. Ted brings a wealth of knowledge about building a business as well as valuable insights for all professionals. He has found his purpose in building Chattanooga Preparatory School, something he and his wife are extremely proud of today. We discuss all this and more in episode 2.

Follow The Freight Pod and host Andrew Silver on LinkedIn.

*** This episode is brought to you by Rapido Solutions Group. I had the pleasure of working with Danny Frisco and Roberto Icaza at Coyote, as well as being a client of theirs more recently at MoLo. Their team does a great job supplying nearshore talent to brokers, carriers, and technology providers to handle any role necessary, be it customer or carrier support, back office, or tech services. Visit gorapido.com to learn more.

A special thanks to our additional sponsors:

• Cargado – Cargado is the first platform that connects logistics companies and trucking companies that move freight into and out of Mexico. Visit cargado.com to learn more.
• Greenscreens.ai – Greenscreens.ai is the AI-powered pricing and market intelligence tool transforming how freight brokers price freight. Visit greenscreens.ai/freightpod today!
• Metafora – Metafora is a technology consulting firm that has delivered value for over a decade to brokers, shippers, carriers, private equity firms, and freight tech companies. Check them out at metafora.net. ***

In our first episode, we interview Kevin Nolan, founder of Nolan Transportation Group, OTR Solutions, and a number of other successful companies in the logistics industry. We talk about Kevin's glory days in high school and college, his first job at industry juggernaut C.H. Robinson, his time working at Waffle House, and his entrepreneurial journey that commenced thereafter. 

Follow The Freight Pod and host Andrew Silver on LinkedIn.

*** This episode is brought to you by Rapido Solutions Group. I had the pleasure of working with Danny Frisco and Roberto Icaza at Coyote, as well as being a client of theirs more recently at MoLo. Their team does a great job supplying nearshore talent to brokers, carriers, and technology providers to handle any role necessary, be it customer or carrier support, back office, or tech services. Visit gorapido.com to learn more.

A special thanks to our additional sponsors:

• Cargado – Cargado is the first platform that connects logistics companies and trucking companies that move freight into and out of Mexico. Visit cargado.com to learn more.
• Greenscreens.ai – Greenscreens.ai is the AI-powered pricing and market intelligence tool transforming how freight brokers price freight. Visit greenscreens.ai/freightpod today!
• Metafora – Metafora is a technology consulting firm that has delivered value for over a decade to brokers, shippers, carriers, private equity firms, and freight tech companies. Check them out at metafora.net. ***

On this week's episode, Andrew welcomes his older brother Matt Silver to discuss the official launch of his new startup, Cargado - a load board and technology platform focused on simplifying cross-border freight operations between the United States and Mexico. 

Matt shares his background, starting in the logistics industry at Coyote Logistics, where he helped build out the Mexico division. He left Coyote to pursue his entrepreneurial dreams, founding Forager. Matt's business would eventually be acquired by Arrive, where he stayed on to lead their Mexico division. He recounts his experience from his first startup, including lessons learned, and opens up about some of the specific challenges that can happen if you don't manage your finances effectively. All those lessons and experiences set Matt up well to bring his next business to life.

The discussion dives into the complexities of the Mexico freight market - from the intricate web of carriers, customs brokers, and logistics providers involved in a single cross-border shipment, to the lack of technological infrastructure compared to the domestic US market. Matt explains how Cargado is aiming to bring more transparency, efficiency and collaboration to this growing segment of the supply chain.

The episode provides valuable insights for freight brokers and carriers looking to expand their cross-border capabilities, as well as the broader opportunities and challenges in the Mexico logistics landscape. Matt's entrepreneurial journey and the vision for Cargado offer an intriguing look at innovation within the freight industry.

***Episode brought to you by Rapido Solutions Group. I had the pleasure of working with Danny Frisco and Roberto Icaza at Coyote, as well as being a client of theirs more recently at MoLo. Their team does a great job supplying nearshore talent to brokers, carriers, and technology providers to handle any role necessary, be it customer or carrier support, back office, or tech services.***

Follow The Freight Pod and host Andrew Silver on LinkedIn.

*** This episode is brought to you by Rapido Solutions Group. I had the pleasure of working with Danny Frisco and Roberto Icaza at Coyote, as well as being a client of theirs more recently at MoLo. Their team does a great job supplying nearshore talent to brokers, carriers, and technology providers to handle any role necessary, be it customer or carrier support, back office, or tech services. Visit gorapido.com to learn more.

A special thanks to our additional sponsors:

• Cargado – Cargado is the first platform that connects logistics companies and trucking companies that move freight into and out of Mexico. Visit cargado.com to learn more.
• Greenscreens.ai – Greenscreens.ai is the AI-powered pricing and market intelligence tool transforming how freight brokers price freight. Visit greenscreens.ai/freightpod today!
• Metafora – Metafora is a technology consulting firm that has delivered value for over a decade to brokers, shippers, carriers, private equity firms, and freight tech companies. Check them out at metafora.net. ***

What happens when you record a podcast from the moment your guest walks in, capturing every spontaneous and candid moment? That’s exactly what we did in this episode, and it led to a fascinating discussion about the power of authenticity and the often-overlooked value of raw, unfiltered conversation. We also dive into the challenges of maintaining mental health and motivation without the structure of a traditional job, sharing our own experiences and the importance of personal routines. The conversation gets personal as we talk about how intrinsic and extrinsic motivations drive us in our everyday lives, from professional aspirations to fitness goals.

Our guest, Ryan Schreiber, brings a wealth of experience from his journey from law school to the logistics industry. Through personal anecdotes, Ryan sheds light on how upbringing and familial expectations shape our motivational drivers. We discuss the constant balancing act between financial goals and personal values, using the freight brokerage industry as a case study. The conversation highlights the essence of genuine care and ethical leadership in business, along with the subjective nature of success. Ryan's three business rules—constant vigilance, getting uncomfortable, and the pursuit of fun—offer invaluable insights into maintaining control without micromanaging.

Leadership is a recurring theme in this episode, examined from various angles including personal growth and conflict resolution. We reflect on the importance of self-awareness, vulnerability, and setting personal boundaries. Our discussion touches on the complexities of leadership, the emotional chaos it can involve, and the significance of showing up every day with the intent to improve. We also explore the dynamics of the drama triangle in workplace conflicts and the empowerment dynamic that fosters positive interactions. By candidly discussing our flaws and the lessons learned from mistakes, we aim to set a positive tone for your week ahead. Tune in for a raw, honest, and energizing conversation that promises to leave you with new perspectives on motivation, leadership, and personal growth.

***Episode brought to you by Rapido Solutions Group. I had the pleasure of working with Danny Frisco and Roberto Icaza at Coyote, as well as being a client of theirs more recently at MoLo. Their team does a great job supplying nearshore talent to brokers, carriers, and technology providers to handle any role necessary, be it customer or carrier

Follow The Freight Pod and host Andrew Silver on LinkedIn.

*** This episode is brought to you by Rapido Solutions Group. I had the pleasure of working with Danny Frisco and Roberto Icaza at Coyote, as well as being a client of theirs more recently at MoLo. Their team does a great job supplying nearshore talent to brokers, carriers, and technology providers to handle any role necessary, be it customer or carrier support, back office, or tech services. Visit gorapido.com to learn more.

A special thanks to our additional sponsors:

• Cargado – Cargado is the first platform that connects logistics companies and trucking companies that move freight into and out of Mexico. Visit cargado.com to learn more.
• Greenscreens.ai – Greenscreens.ai is the AI-powered pricing and market intelligence tool transforming how freight brokers price freight. Visit greenscreens.ai/freightpod today!
• Metafora – Metafora is a technology consulting firm that has delivered value for over a decade to brokers, shippers, carriers, private equity firms, and freight tech companies. Check them out at metafora.net. ***

Alyssa Correale's journey in the logistics and supply chain industry is nothing short of inspiring. Ever wondered how a career can evolve from a small family business to leading roles in major companies like Niagara Bottling and Uber Freight? Alyssa shares her path, from her humble beginnings at Giovanni Foods, where she learned the ropes of logistics on a personal level hand-writing BOLs for drivers, to tackling the immense challenges of supply chain efficiency and innovation in larger corporate settings. Her story is a testament to the power of perseverance, resilience, and embracing change at each stage of her career.

Facing gender bias and professional hurdles, Alyssa's narrative is rich with personal anecdotes and lessons from her professional life. She recounts her strategic move to Colorado, the transition from Molson Coors to MicroStar Logistics, and the pivotal roles she played in these companies. Through her experiences, Alyssa emphasizes the importance of supportive networks, informal mentorship, and maintaining a growth mindset. Her candid reflections on overcoming bias in a male-dominated industry provide valuable insights for anyone facing similar challenges.

From the complexities of transportation in the bottled water industry to the innovative leaps at Uber Freight, Alyssa's career highlights the importance of adaptability and continuous improvement. She discusses building robust carrier networks, handling rapid industry growth, and balancing professional life with motherhood. Alyssa's insights into digital brokerage and the ongoing evolution of logistics are a must-listen for industry professionals. Join us for a compelling episode filled with actionable takeaways and an in-depth look at the triumphs and tribulations of a remarkable career in logistics.

***Episode brought to you by Rapido Solutions Group. I had the pleasure of working with Danny Frisco and Roberto Icaza at Coyote, as well as being a client of theirs more recently at MoLo. Their team does a great job supplying nearshore talent to brokers, carriers, and technology providers to handle any role necessary, be it customer or carrier support, back office, or tech services.***

Follow The Freight Pod and host Andrew Silver on LinkedIn.

*** This episode is brought to you by Rapido Solutions Group. I had the pleasure of working with Danny Frisco and Roberto Icaza at Coyote, as well as being a client of theirs more recently at MoLo. Their team does a great job supplying nearshore talent to brokers, carriers, and technology providers to handle any role necessary, be it customer or carrier support, back office, or tech services. Visit gorapido.com to learn more.

A special thanks to our additional sponsors:

• Cargado – Cargado is the first platform that connects logistics companies and trucking companies that move freight into and out of Mexico. Visit cargado.com to learn more.
• Greenscreens.ai – Greenscreens.ai is the AI-powered pricing and market intelligence tool transforming how freight brokers price freight. Visit greenscreens.ai/freightpod today!
• Metafora – Metafora is a technology consulting firm that has delivered value for over a decade to brokers, shippers, carriers, private equity firms, and freight tech companies. Check them out at metafora.net. ***

Discover the secrets to mastering recruitment in the logistics and transportation industry with insights from two of the industry's leading professionals, Charlie Saffro and Brent Orsuga. Charlie shares her serendipitous transition from marketing to establishing her own firm, CS Recruiting, while Brent reflects on his journey from construction recruitment to becoming a renowned figure in logistics with Pinnacle Growth Advisors. Together, they reveal the strategies that set them apart, including the power of reputation, referrals, and the relentless work ethic essential for securing initial clients.

Gain valuable tips on maintaining a positive work environment, balancing hands-on roles with strategic leadership, and the importance of authentic leadership. From leveraging LinkedIn to securing pivotal meetings, we explore how building strong candidate networks can lead to early success. Listen as Charlie and Brent discuss the intricacies of emotional regulation, evaluating company culture, and the ethical responsibilities that come with recruiting. You’ll also learn about the critical aspects of employee satisfaction, retention, and the nuanced process of navigating counteroffers.

This episode is packed with practical advice, from best practices for interviewing to the nuances of differentiating as an external recruiter. Gain insights on retaining talent through aligning values and growth opportunities. With compelling anecdotes and expert advice, Charlie and Brent underscore the importance of building strong, genuine relationships within the logistics and transportation industry, providing you with the tools to excel in your own career.

***Episode brought to you by Rapido Solutions Group. I had the pleasure of working with Danny Frisco and Roberto Icaza at Coyote, as well as being a client of theirs more recently at MoLo. Their team does a great job supplying nearshore talent to brokers, carriers, and technology providers to handle any role necessary, be it customer or carrier support, back office, or tech services.***

Follow The Freight Pod and host Andrew Silver on LinkedIn.

*** This episode is brought to you by Rapido Solutions Group. I had the pleasure of working with Danny Frisco and Roberto Icaza at Coyote, as well as being a client of theirs more recently at MoLo. Their team does a great job supplying nearshore talent to brokers, carriers, and technology providers to handle any role necessary, be it customer or carrier support, back office, or tech services. Visit gorapido.com to learn more.

A special thanks to our additional sponsors:

• Cargado – Cargado is the first platform that connects logistics companies and trucking companies that move freight into and out of Mexico. Visit cargado.com to learn more.
• Greenscreens.ai – Greenscreens.ai is the AI-powered pricing and market intelligence tool transforming how freight brokers price freight. Visit greenscreens.ai/freightpod today!
• Metafora – Metafora is a technology consulting firm that has delivered value for over a decade to brokers, shippers, carriers, private equity firms, and freight tech companies. Check them out at metafora.net. ***

We are joined this week by Shannon Breen, CEO of FreightVana. We begin the episode walking through Shannon's story, as he explains his early entrepreneurial spirit, from aspiring franchise owner to real estate, before finding his way into logistics with industry giant, Knight Transportation. We talk through lessons he gleaned from his first freight years, including the experience of navigating the Knight-Swift merger.

Shannon would eventually scratch his entrepreneurial itch with the founding of FreightVana (FV) in 2021. FV's approach to the market has been rather unique, from the intentional and aggressive social media presence, to the significant investment in leasing their own trailers to develop a power only network, Shannon's team has worked to stand out from Day 1. We get into the details of how any logistics organization can stand out as we discuss the art of making business proposals unforgettable, a result of meticulous preparation in advance of a pitch. 
Shannon's insights emphasize the power of genuine effort and exceptional customer service in an industry where margins are tight, and competition is fierce.

Leasing trailers as a broker is a newer concept, and certainly not one many companies have done at scale. FV's approach here is rather unique, and this is the most in depth conversation we've had on the show about the benefits and challenges of such an approach. In the end, it can generate a lot more opportunities with customers, but at the same time, carriers more cost for the broker to navigate. Ultimately, building the right network will drive a broker's ability to succeed on the path FV is taking. 

Shannon is a super easy guy to talk to and someone that has developed tremendous insight that our entire industry can learn from. I hope you enjoy the episode.

***Episode brought to you by Rapido Solutions Group. I had the pleasure of working with Danny Frisco and Roberto Icaza at Coyote, as well as being a client of theirs more recently at MoLo. Their team does a great job supplying nearshore talent to brokers, carriers, and technology providers to handle any role necessary, be it customer or carrier support, back office, or tech services.***

Follow The Freight Pod and host Andrew Silver on LinkedIn.

*** This episode is brought to you by Rapido Solutions Group. I had the pleasure of working with Danny Frisco and Roberto Icaza at Coyote, as well as being a client of theirs more recently at MoLo. Their team does a great job supplying nearshore talent to brokers, carriers, and technology providers to handle any role necessary, be it customer or carrier support, back office, or tech services. Visit gorapido.com to learn more.

A special thanks to our additional sponsors:

• Cargado – Cargado is the first platform that connects logistics companies and trucking companies that move freight into and out of Mexico. Visit cargado.com to learn more.
• Greenscreens.ai – Greenscreens.ai is the AI-powered pricing and market intelligence tool transforming how freight brokers price freight. Visit greenscreens.ai/freightpod today!
• Metafora – Metafora is a technology consulting firm that has delivered value for over a decade to brokers, shippers, carriers, private equity firms, and freight tech companies. Check them out at metafora.net. ***

The episode features an interview with Rebecca Brewster, the President and COO of the American Transportation Research Institute (ATRI). She discusses her background and how she came to work in the trucking industry. She explains ATRI's role as a non-profit research organization that identifies and addresses the industry's top research priorities through a diverse Research Advisory Committee, made up of relevant industry players from carriers, to shippers, to brokers, and vendors who support the trucking ecosystem. 

Throughout the episode, Rebecca highlights several recent ATRI studies, including research on the operational costs of trucking, which provides detailed benchmarking data for fleets, as well as studies on the growing issue of "nuclear verdicts" against trucking companies. She also delves into ATRI's work examining the challenges of electrifying the trucking fleet, a hot topic as a result of recent California regulation. This part of the conversation is especially compelling, as ATRI's research shows the significant infrastructure and grid capacity issues that would need to be addressed to meet the governmental requirements. Throughout the conversation, Brewster emphasizes ATRI's commitment to providing objective, data-driven research to inform decision-makers, rather than engaging in advocacy or lobbying.

Rebecca stresses the importance of industry participation in ATRI's research process, as well as the organization's efforts to widely disseminate its findings through user-friendly summaries. She demonstrates ATRI's deep understanding of the complex issues facing the trucking industry and its dedication to helping address these challenges through rigorous, independent analysis.

***Episode brought to you by Rapido Solutions Group. I had the pleasure of working with Danny Frisco and Roberto Icaza at Coyote, as well as being a client of theirs more recently at MoLo. Their team does a great job supplying nearshore talent to brokers, carriers, and technology providers to handle any role necessary, be it customer or carrier support, back office, or tech services.***

Follow The Freight Pod and host Andrew Silver on LinkedIn.

*** This episode is brought to you by Rapido Solutions Group. I had the pleasure of working with Danny Frisco and Roberto Icaza at Coyote, as well as being a client of theirs more recently at MoLo. Their team does a great job supplying nearshore talent to brokers, carriers, and technology providers to handle any role necessary, be it customer or carrier support, back office, or tech services. Visit gorapido.com to learn more.

A special thanks to our additional sponsors:

• Cargado – Cargado is the first platform that connects logistics companies and trucking companies that move freight into and out of Mexico. Visit cargado.com to learn more.
• Greenscreens.ai – Greenscreens.ai is the AI-powered pricing and market intelligence tool transforming how freight brokers price freight. Visit greenscreens.ai/freightpod today!
• Metafora – Metafora is a technology consulting firm that has delivered value for over a decade to brokers, shippers, carriers, private equity firms, and freight tech companies. Check them out at metafora.net. ***

Chadd Olesen, CEO of automation technology company AVRL, joined us this week to discuss his company's journey. AVRL started in 2017 focused on natural language processing, but pivoted in 2020 to automate spot freight pricing for brokers. 
Chadd shared how AVRL had to rethink their approach and technology to better fit the needs of freight brokers, rather than trying to force brokers to adapt to their original product. He emphasized the importance of being consultative and collaborative with brokers, allowing their domain expertise to shape the automation rather than fully replacing the human element.
The conversation also touched on the evolving API pricing landscape, the challenges of change management when implementing new technology, and Chadd's personal growth as a leader in navigating the complexities of the freight industry. Overall, the episode provides insights into building a successful freight tech company by deeply understanding the industry and empowering rather than replacing human expertise.

***Episode brought to you by Rapido Solutions Group. I had the pleasure of working with Danny Frisco and Roberto Icaza at Coyote, as well as being a client of theirs more recently at MoLo. Their team does a great job supplying nearshore talent to brokers, carriers, and technology providers to handle any role necessary, be it customer or carrier support, back office, or tech services.***

Follow The Freight Pod and host Andrew Silver on LinkedIn.

*** This episode is brought to you by Rapido Solutions Group. I had the pleasure of working with Danny Frisco and Roberto Icaza at Coyote, as well as being a client of theirs more recently at MoLo. Their team does a great job supplying nearshore talent to brokers, carriers, and technology providers to handle any role necessary, be it customer or carrier support, back office, or tech services. Visit gorapido.com to learn more.

A special thanks to our additional sponsors:

• Cargado – Cargado is the first platform that connects logistics companies and trucking companies that move freight into and out of Mexico. Visit cargado.com to learn more.
• Greenscreens.ai – Greenscreens.ai is the AI-powered pricing and market intelligence tool transforming how freight brokers price freight. Visit greenscreens.ai/freightpod today!
• Metafora – Metafora is a technology consulting firm that has delivered value for over a decade to brokers, shippers, carriers, private equity firms, and freight tech companies. Check them out at metafora.net. ***

The episode features an in-depth conversation with Ryan Joyce, the CEO of freight intelligence startup GenLogs. Ryan shares his unique background, having previously worked as an undercover CIA officer, a path he unknowingly would find himself on after a frightening situation with his father working in the Pentagon during 9/11. He discusses how that experience shaped his empathetic approach to problem-solving and his desire to make a positive impact. 
Ryan explains GenLogs' mission to bring unprecedented visibility and data insights to the trucking and freight industry through a nationwide network of roadside sensors. He outlines how GenLogs' technology can help recover stolen assets, provide capacity insights to brokers, and increase overall supply chain efficiency. Ryan emphasizes GenLogs' focus on responsible growth, as the organization will only be onboarding 200 customers in the next year to ensure high service levels.
Throughout the discussion, Ryan reflects on his leadership philosophy, emphasizing the importance of vulnerability and authenticity. He shares lessons learned from his time in the CIA, where he struggled with the pressures of leadership, and his desire to apply those learnings at GenLogs. Overall, the episode provides a fascinating look at Ryan's background and the unique approach he is bringing to the freight tech space with GenLogs.

***Episode brought to you by Rapido Solutions Group. I had the pleasure of working with Danny Frisco and Roberto Icaza at Coyote, as well as being a client of theirs more recently at MoLo. Their team does a great job supplying nearshore talent to brokers, carriers, and technology providers to handle any role necessary, be it customer or carrier support, back office, or tech services.***

Follow The Freight Pod and host Andrew Silver on LinkedIn.

*** This episode is brought to you by Rapido Solutions Group. I had the pleasure of working with Danny Frisco and Roberto Icaza at Coyote, as well as being a client of theirs more recently at MoLo. Their team does a great job supplying nearshore talent to brokers, carriers, and technology providers to handle any role necessary, be it customer or carrier support, back office, or tech services. Visit gorapido.com to learn more.

A special thanks to our additional sponsors:

• Cargado – Cargado is the first platform that connects logistics companies and trucking companies that move freight into and out of Mexico. Visit cargado.com to learn more.
• Greenscreens.ai – Greenscreens.ai is the AI-powered pricing and market intelligence tool transforming how freight brokers price freight. Visit greenscreens.ai/freightpod today!
• Metafora – Metafora is a technology consulting firm that has delivered value for over a decade to brokers, shippers, carriers, private equity firms, and freight tech companies. Check them out at metafora.net. ***

FreightVana has acquired the brokerage operations of Loadsmith. We are joined this week for a special episode breaking down the making of the merger between these two organizations. FreightVana CEO Shannon Breen and Loadsmith CEO Brett Suma join the show to break down the deal, explaining why Loadsmith is divesting it's brokerage operations and why FreightVana is the perfect complementary partner. 

With mutual backgrounds at Knight, it was easy for Shannon and Brett to see eye to eye on how a deal like this could come together. Both organizations had a similar approach to brokerage, focusing on power only and leasing their own trailers to build an asset-like network for their shipper customers. These similarities should lead to an efficient integration opportunity.

Shannon and Brett explain the due diligence process and integration plans for the organizations, emphasizing the importance of transparency, learning from one another's teams, and making decisions in the best interests of their people and customers to ensure as much continuity as possible throughout the transition.

***Episode brought to you by Rapido Solutions Group. I had the pleasure of working with Danny Frisco and Roberto Icaza at Coyote, as well as being a client of theirs more recently at MoLo. Their team does a great job supplying nearshore talent to brokers, carriers, and technology providers to handle any role necessary, be it customer or carrier support, back office, or tech services.***

Follow The Freight Pod and host Andrew Silver on LinkedIn.

*** This episode is brought to you by Rapido Solutions Group. I had the pleasure of working with Danny Frisco and Roberto Icaza at Coyote, as well as being a client of theirs more recently at MoLo. Their team does a great job supplying nearshore talent to brokers, carriers, and technology providers to handle any role necessary, be it customer or carrier support, back office, or tech services. Visit gorapido.com to learn more.

A special thanks to our additional sponsors:

• Cargado – Cargado is the first platform that connects logistics companies and trucking companies that move freight into and out of Mexico. Visit cargado.com to learn more.
• Greenscreens.ai – Greenscreens.ai is the AI-powered pricing and market intelligence tool transforming how freight brokers price freight. Visit greenscreens.ai/freightpod today!
• Metafora – Metafora is a technology consulting firm that has delivered value for over a decade to brokers, shippers, carriers, private equity firms, and freight tech companies. Check them out at metafora.net. ***

In this captivating episode, Andrew sits down with Ryan Petersen, CEO of Flexport, for an insightful and candid conversation about leadership, personal growth, and business. Ryan shares his journey of self-discovery, discussing how he reevaluated his values after a challenging period in China and the profound impact of mentors like Tony Robbins on his life and leadership style.
The discussion delves into Flexport's operational processes challenges, including the impact of COVID-19 on their Net Promoter Score and the subsequent reorganization to improve quality and customer satisfaction. Ryan emphasizes the importance of customer obsession, highlighting Flexport's use of AI to analyze both employee and customer feedback to drive improvements. He also discusses the company's unique position in the industry, leveraging custom-built software and a worldwide network to provide innovative solutions in logistics.
Throughout the interview, Ryan offers valuable insights on balancing technology and traditional forwarding practices, the importance of attracting top talent, and the potential for AI to revolutionize the logistics industry. He shares personal reflections on leadership, and specific changes he has made to have a positive impact on his health and decision-making. The conversation concludes with a discussion of Flexport's recent acquisition of Convoy and its plans to integrate this technology to expand into new markets and improve efficiency in domestic trucking operations.

***Episode brought to you by Rapido Solutions Group. I had the pleasure of working with Danny Frisco and Roberto Icaza at Coyote, as well as being a client of theirs more recently at MoLo. Their team does a great job supplying nearshore talent to brokers, carriers, and technology providers to handle any role necessary, be it customer or carrier support, back office, or tech services.***

Follow The Freight Pod and host Andrew Silver on LinkedIn.

*** This episode is brought to you by Rapido Solutions Group. I had the pleasure of working with Danny Frisco and Roberto Icaza at Coyote, as well as being a client of theirs more recently at MoLo. Their team does a great job supplying nearshore talent to brokers, carriers, and technology providers to handle any role necessary, be it customer or carrier support, back office, or tech services. Visit gorapido.com to learn more.

A special thanks to our additional sponsors:

• Cargado – Cargado is the first platform that connects logistics companies and trucking companies that move freight into and out of Mexico. Visit cargado.com to learn more.
• Greenscreens.ai – Greenscreens.ai is the AI-powered pricing and market intelligence tool transforming how freight brokers price freight. Visit greenscreens.ai/freightpod today!
• Metafora – Metafora is a technology consulting firm that has delivered value for over a decade to brokers, shippers, carriers, private equity firms, and freight tech companies. Check them out at metafora.net. ***

For the last episode of 2024, we welcome our first driver to the show: Chad Boblett. He created the longstanding Rate Per Mile Masters Facebook group, which, in its 11 years, has grown to be a vibrant community of close to 37,000 owner-ops, carriers, brokers, and agents. 

In this episode, we go back even further — 13 years — to how Chad got started in trucking, when a severe injury caused him to lose just about everything in his life — including his job and his house. He was living in a motel. But he still had his CDL. So with a $35,000 credit limit and a half a tank of gas, Chad bought his first truck and ran his first load. And that's how his trucking company, Boblett Brothers, was born. 

In this episode, Chad joined The Freight Pod from his house, on a lake in Lexington, Kentucky, where he talked to Andrew about:

• Building community in trucking
• What he's seeing in the truck market
• His rules of engagement with brokers
• The broker rate transparency debate
• What he thinks about freight AI
• The one thing that irks him about digital brokers

***Episode brought to you by Rapido Solutions Group. I had the pleasure of working with Danny Frisco and Roberto Icaza at Coyote, as well as being a client of theirs more recently at MoLo. Their team does a great job supplying nearshore talent to brokers, carriers, and technology providers to handle any role necessary, be it customer or carrier support, back office, or tech services.***

Follow The Freight Pod and host Andrew Silver on LinkedIn.

*** This episode is brought to you by Rapido Solutions Group. I had the pleasure of working with Danny Frisco and Roberto Icaza at Coyote, as well as being a client of theirs more recently at MoLo. Their team does a great job supplying nearshore talent to brokers, carriers, and technology providers to handle any role necessary, be it customer or carrier support, back office, or tech services. Visit gorapido.com to learn more.

A special thanks to our additional sponsors:

• Cargado – Cargado is the first platform that connects logistics companies and trucking companies that move freight into and out of Mexico. Visit cargado.com to learn more.
• Greenscreens.ai – Greenscreens.ai is the AI-powered pricing and market intelligence tool transforming how freight brokers price freight. Visit greenscreens.ai/freightpod today!
• Metafora – Metafora is a technology consulting firm that has delivered value for over a decade to brokers, shippers, carriers, private equity firms, and freight tech companies. Check them out at metafora.net. ***

In a special episode to announce the acquisition of Trucker Tools by DAT, we are joined by Trucker Tools CEO Kary Jablonski to break down the deal. She walks us through why now was the time for Trucker Tools to go to market, why DAT makes the most sense as the long term home for the TT platform, and what the future looks like for Kary and her team. 

This move helps further DAT's position as the premiere freight marketplace and rate analytics platform, enhancing their product pipeline and capabilities. Tune in to learn everything you need to know about the deal.

***Episode brought to you by Rapido Solutions Group. I had the pleasure of working with Danny Frisco and Roberto Icaza at Coyote, as well as being a client of theirs more recently at MoLo. Their team does a great job supplying nearshore talent to brokers, carriers, and technology providers to handle any role necessary, be it customer or carrier support, back office, or tech services.***

Follow The Freight Pod and host Andrew Silver on LinkedIn.

*** This episode is brought to you by Rapido Solutions Group. I had the pleasure of working with Danny Frisco and Roberto Icaza at Coyote, as well as being a client of theirs more recently at MoLo. Their team does a great job supplying nearshore talent to brokers, carriers, and technology providers to handle any role necessary, be it customer or carrier support, back office, or tech services. Visit gorapido.com to learn more.

A special thanks to our additional sponsors:

• Cargado – Cargado is the first platform that connects logistics companies and trucking companies that move freight into and out of Mexico. Visit cargado.com to learn more.
• Greenscreens.ai – Greenscreens.ai is the AI-powered pricing and market intelligence tool transforming how freight brokers price freight. Visit greenscreens.ai/freightpod today!
• Metafora – Metafora is a technology consulting firm that has delivered value for over a decade to brokers, shippers, carriers, private equity firms, and freight tech companies. Check them out at metafora.net. ***

Andrew is joined by Jonathan Salama, the CEO and co-founder of Transfix, a logistics technology company. He discusses Transfix's origins, starting as a freight brokerage business that he and his co-founder Drew built from the ground up. They focused on automating key functions like pricing, scheduling, and carrier management using machine learning models. 
When the pandemic hit, Transfix's technology proved invaluable in navigating the volatility. However, Transfix later had to pivot away from being a full-service broker when plans for a SPAC deal fell through. Salama then took over as CEO and refocused the company on its pricing automation technology, which he believes is highly differentiated and can be licensed to other brokers and shippers. 
Salama emphasizes the importance of building a strong team and doing right by people as key lessons from his 10 years in the freight industry. He remains optimistic about Transfix's future, believing the company can continue to make a positive impact by helping carriers and the broader supply chain through innovative technology solutions.

***Episode brought to you by Rapido Solutions Group. I had the pleasure of working with Danny Frisco and Roberto Icaza at Coyote, as well as being a client of theirs more recently at MoLo. Their team does a great job supplying nearshore talent to brokers, carriers, and technology providers to handle any role necessary, be it customer or carrier support, back office, or tech services.***

Follow The Freight Pod and host Andrew Silver on LinkedIn.

*** This episode is brought to you by Rapido Solutions Group. I had the pleasure of working with Danny Frisco and Roberto Icaza at Coyote, as well as being a client of theirs more recently at MoLo. Their team does a great job supplying nearshore talent to brokers, carriers, and technology providers to handle any role necessary, be it customer or carrier support, back office, or tech services. Visit gorapido.com to learn more.

A special thanks to our additional sponsors:

• Cargado – Cargado is the first platform that connects logistics companies and trucking companies that move freight into and out of Mexico. Visit cargado.com to learn more.
• Greenscreens.ai – Greenscreens.ai is the AI-powered pricing and market intelligence tool transforming how freight brokers price freight. Visit greenscreens.ai/freightpod today!
• Metafora – Metafora is a technology consulting firm that has delivered value for over a decade to brokers, shippers, carriers, private equity firms, and freight tech companies. Check them out at metafora.net. ***

In this episode, Andrew is joined by Jesse Buckingham, CEO and cofounder of Vooma. Jesse studied law and economics at the University of Sydney and got his MBA from Stanford. Before Vooma, he was CEO at ASG LogisTech, whose businesses included Trucker Tools, Record360, e-Courier, and PackageRoute. He was also a consultant at Bain & Company.

Now, Jesse’s leading the Vooma team in building AI tools that will automate the shipment lifecycle and help brokerage teams enhance productivity and reduce opex. Vooma recently raised $13M in Series A funding led by Craft Ventures, on top of a $3.6M seed round led by Index Ventures, with support from founders and execs at companies like Motive, Project44, Ryder, and Uber Freight. 

Andrew and Jesse cover:

• How to motivate teams, lead with passion, and build trust when you’re not the founder.
• The greatest challenges around addressing and automating manual processes in logistics. 
• How AI tools like Vooma will reinvent the way brokerages run their internal operations. 
• The future of hiring for the skills required to thrive in an AI-driven environment.
• The artful balance of building an innovative, new business with having a newborn at home.

Follow The Freight Pod and host Andrew Silver on LinkedIn.

*** This episode is brought to you by Rapido Solutions Group. I had the pleasure of working with Danny Frisco and Roberto Icaza at Coyote, as well as being a client of theirs more recently at MoLo. Their team does a great job supplying nearshore talent to brokers, carriers, and technology providers to handle any role necessary, be it customer or carrier support, back office, or tech services. Visit gorapido.com to learn more.

A special thanks to our additional sponsors:

• Cargado – Cargado is the first platform that connects logistics companies and trucking companies that move freight into and out of Mexico. Visit cargado.com to learn more.
• Greenscreens.ai – Greenscreens.ai is the AI-powered pricing and market intelligence tool transforming how freight brokers price freight. Visit greenscreens.ai/freightpod today!
• Metafora – Metafora is a technology consulting firm that has delivered value for over a decade to brokers, shippers, carriers, private equity firms, and freight tech companies. Check them out at metafora.net. ***

For the 50th episode of The Freight Pod, Andrew welcomes Dhruv Gupta, CEO and cofounder of Drumkit. Dhruv shares his journey from studying transportation planning at Harvard to founding Drumkit, an innovative AI-driven workflow solution for logistics companies. 

In this episode, Andrew and Dhruv talk about:

• Dhruv’s experience of dealing with failure — calling his first business a “faceplant” — and what he learned that he still carries with him today. 
• The importance of leading with confidence, especially through uncertain times.
• How Dhruv and his team are building Drumkit to be a tool that “conforms” to customers’ processes — and with that, how he thinks about scaling his team internally to build faster and land more customers.
• The biggest challenges the Drumkit team is having with securing new business and the unique qualities they’re bringing to the brokerage sales process.

Follow The Freight Pod and host Andrew Silver on LinkedIn.

*** This episode is brought to you by Rapido Solutions Group. I had the pleasure of working with Danny Frisco and Roberto Icaza at Coyote, as well as being a client of theirs more recently at MoLo. Their team does a great job supplying nearshore talent to brokers, carriers, and technology providers to handle any role necessary, be it customer or carrier support, back office, or tech services. Visit gorapido.com to learn more.

A special thanks to our additional sponsors:

• Cargado – Cargado is the first platform that connects logistics companies and trucking companies that move freight into and out of Mexico. Visit cargado.com to learn more.
• Greenscreens.ai – Greenscreens.ai is the AI-powered pricing and market intelligence tool transforming how freight brokers price freight. Visit greenscreens.ai/freightpod today!
• Metafora – Metafora is a technology consulting firm that has delivered value for over a decade to brokers, shippers, carriers, private equity firms, and freight tech companies. Check them out at metafora.net. ***

In this episode, Andrew talks to Brad Perling, CEO and co-founder of Bitfreighter. Brad was an aerospace major waiting to get into air traffic control school when he became an early employee at Calvary Logistics. He says that’s where he got his freight MBA, working up from carrier rep to general manager. Frustrated by the lack of options when it came to EDI technology, this former broker is now building another cost-saving option for integration technology in Bitfreighter, named to FreightWaves’ 2024 FreightTech 25 awards.

Andrew and Brad cover:

• When brokerages should invest in building their own tech versus buying it
• If you can build truly differentiated technology without prior brokerage experience
• Is EDI dying? Its role in modern logistics and the role Bitfreighter is playing
• Fostering company culture in a remote working environment
• The challenges of bootstrapping a tech business

Follow The Freight Pod and host Andrew Silver on LinkedIn.

*** This episode is brought to you by Rapido Solutions Group. I had the pleasure of working with Danny Frisco and Roberto Icaza at Coyote, as well as being a client of theirs more recently at MoLo. Their team does a great job supplying nearshore talent to brokers, carriers, and technology providers to handle any role necessary, be it customer or carrier support, back office, or tech services. Visit gorapido.com to learn more.

A special thanks to our additional sponsors:

• Cargado – Cargado is the first platform that connects logistics companies and trucking companies that move freight into and out of Mexico. Visit cargado.com to learn more.
• Greenscreens.ai – Greenscreens.ai is the AI-powered pricing and market intelligence tool transforming how freight brokers price freight. Visit greenscreens.ai/freightpod today!
• Metafora – Metafora is a technology consulting firm that has delivered value for over a decade to brokers, shippers, carriers, private equity firms, and freight tech companies. Check them out at metafora.net. ***