In this Off-Season Exclusive of the Last2First Podcast, Jason Burns sits down with Drew Kronick, former Founder & CEO of SDS Rx (now part of DHL Supply Chain) to unpack how he built a national healthcare last-mile platform, partnered with private equity, and ultimately sold to the largest logistics provider in the world.
Drew shares his journey from growing up in a family delivery business to launching SDS Rx in 2009, scaling it to thousands of routes across all 50 states, leading in pharmacy, radio pharma, and health systems, and building the technology and culture that positioned SDS Rx as DHL’s missing capability in its global healthcare strategy.
You’ll hear powerful lessons on leadership, risk, conviction, mission, values, and what it feels like to sit across from DHL as they show you where your company fits into their global 2030 vision.
This conversation is a masterclass in focus, differentiation, and long-term thinking in the final-mile industry.
💡 In this episode, we cover:
🎬 LIVE Film Study with Drew Kronick
We’re taking this episode further with a deep-dive breakdown session:
🎬 Film Study with Drew Kronick (former SDS Rx Founder + CEO)
📅 Tuesday, Dec 17
⏰ 10:15 AM – 11:00 AM CST
👉 Please click on the link and join the event (and activate your 10-Day Free Trial of The Huddle):
https://www.l2fhuddle.com
One link.
Join the event → Access The Huddle → Get your 10-day free trial.
🎧 Subscribe to the Last2First Podcast:
Apple Podcasts → https://podcasts.apple.com/hn/podcast/last2first-podcast/id1778491941
Spotify → https://open.spotify.com/show/3gDS58wo6IWeLl48LHukdP?si=gmhv7Lh8QvyY5xxFS9ZpPA
Ladies and gentlemen, Last2First family… we’re closing out Season 4 with a heavyweight.
Jeff Thomas is the President & CEO of Priority Dispatch, a second-generation leader who helped turn a one-vehicle operation serving Procter & Gamble in 1973 into a nearly $100M regional powerhouse in the Midwest.
In this Season 4 finale, we sit down in his hometown of Cincinnati, Ohio to unpack:
✅The legacy of his father – a true pioneer and founding force behind the Messenger Courier Association (now CLDA)
✅What it was like growing up in the family business, stuffing envelopes and sweeping warehouses for free
✅How Jeff inherited a $4–5M company and bet big on banking, growing Priority to $10–12M with facilities across Ohio
✅The real story behind the power struggle with his dad as growth, risk and vision started to collide
✅How his father’s health crisis unexpectedly cleared the way for Jeff to lead – and forced him to build a smarter leadership team
✅Why he embraces the idea that he’s a leader, not a micromanager, and hires people “a lot smarter than me”
✅The Opportunity Matrix his team still uses today to evaluate every new deal so they’re not “just making deliveries for delivery’s sake”
✅Why drivers – ICs and W-2s – are “not a means to an end, they are the end itself”
✅How Priority has navigated banking, pharma distribution, healthcare and multiple reinventions over 50 years
✅Why he’s resisted private equity and stayed privately held to better serve customers, associates and drivers
✅His take on the future of last mile, local vs. national providers, and why he believes:
“Bigger is not always better, but better is better.”
If you’re in the last mile space and you want to get smarter, more profitable, and more intentional about the work you say “yes” to… this episode is loaded with game-changing insight.
Apple Podcasts 🍎 https://podcasts.apple.com/hn/podcast/last2first-podcast/id1778491941
Spotify 🎧 https://open.spotify.com/show/3gDS58wo6IWeLl48LHukdP?si=gmhv7Lh8QvyY5xxFS9ZpPA
💼 Connect with our guest:
🔗 Jeff Thomas- https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffrey-thomas-327807b/
📌 Shoutout to our Sponsors!
Dropoff Inc.
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Episode 40 – Daniel Gonzalez, President & CEO of US Messenger & Logistics Management Group + President of Olympic Logistics In this episode of the Last2First Podcast, Jason Burns sits down in Chicago with Daniel Gonzalez, a second-generation leader who now runs US Messenger, one of the dominant last mile providers in the Chicago market – and has recently acquired Olympic Logistics, a 3PL freight broker handling domestic and international freight. Daniel shares how he went from college bowler to “Swiss Army knife” in his family’s company – working the warehouse, dispatch, customer service, billing, routes and operations – before stepping into the role of President & CEO. He breaks down: ✅How US Messenger runs messenger intercept centers for over 30 buildings in downtown Chicago ✅Why tenants trust their packages from dock to desk with US Messenger ✅How their bike messengers (W2 employees) still move critical freight in brutal Chicago winters ✅What it means to staff mail centers for major law firms, hospitals and printing companies ✅The story behind acquiring Olympic Logistics and expanding into international shipments ✅Using a “say yes” mentality and a trusted agent network to service clients nationwide and abroad ✅The real challenges around insurance, risk, pricing and margins in last mile ✅Why Daniel thinks the barrier to entry in last mile is lower than ever – and what still separates real operators ✅How technology, data and AI are changing dispatch, visibility and customer expectations Daniel also reflects on his “last to first” moment – realizing that every envelope, specimen, cornea and file box has real human impact behind it, and why his mission is to make sure every order, every client and every employee matters. Apple Podcasts 🍎 https://podcasts.apple.com/hn/podcast/last2first-podcast/id1778491941 Spotify 🎧 https://open.spotify.com/show/3gDS58wo6IWeLl48LHukdP?si=gmhv7Lh8QvyY5xxFS9ZpPA 💼 Connect with our guest: 🔗 Daniel Gonzales - https://www.linkedin.com/in/danielgonzales89/ 📌 Shoutout to our Sponsors! Dropoff Inc. https://www.dropoff.com/ info@dropoff.com +1 888-376-7633 GigSafe https://www.gigsafe.com/ +1 407-496-9882 Deliver Different https://deliverdifferent.com/
What does it take to grow automotive delivery revenue from $300K to $1.6M in 90 days… and still sleep at night? In Episode 38 of the Last2First Podcast, Jason Burns sits down with Tony Carter, VP of Business Development at Principal Distribution and EVP of Axion Professional Solutions, to unpack a lifetime of lessons from the baseball field, the warehouse floor, and the final mile. Tony breaks down how he built winning teams, why “you cannot teach someone to care,” and how a 92 mph fastball to the face completely changed the trajectory of his life and career. He also shares how one simple website upgrade turned into 30% of all new business for a logistics company. If you’re a final mile owner, leader, or operator in the automotive or logistics space, this episode is packed with real stories, real scars, and real strategy. 🔑 In This Episode, You’ll Learn: ✅How Principal Distribution is building a powerhouse in automotive delivery across Texas and Arizona ✅Why Tony believes the ultimate competitive edge is simple: “Do they care?” ✅The mindset shift that came after getting hit by a 92 mph fastball ✅How he helped grow a tire distribution business from $300K to $1.6M/month in 90 days ✅Why automotive is such a resilient, underappreciated final mile vertical ✅The story of turning a one-page, outdated site into a lead engine driving 30% of revenue ✅What most final mile owners are getting wrong about marketing and budgets ✅How to hire, promote, and build teams that are truly committed—not just competent ⏱️ Timestamps / Chapters 1:48 – Intro: Welcome back, Last2First family 3:53 – Who is Tony Carter? Roles at Principal Distribution & Axion 7:58 – Moving to Austin, coming out of “retirement” & finding purpose 12:33 – Can you teach people to care? Building teams that actually give a damn 18:08 – Jason’s football story: the power of trust and buy-in 22:18 – Inside Principal Distribution & Maxim Direct’s next-day auto parts model 29:03 – Why automotive is a powerful, resilient final mile niche 35:28 – TireHub story: scaling from $300K to $1.6M/month in 90 days 41:53 – Bored as a successful entrepreneur: American Warehouses & the 2008 crash 46:58 – The 92 mph fastball that changed everything 52:48 – Lessons from college baseball & competing at the highest level 59:18 – Losing his brother & what real care looks like in life and business 1:05:03 – How one website drove 30% of revenue (and why your site is probably lazy) 1:11:28 – GWC, overpromoting people & putting talent in the right seat 1:16:08 – What final mile owners get wrong about marketing and investment 1:18:58 – Closing thoughts + where to find Tony 🎧 Listen & Subscribe: Spotify 🎧 https://open.spotify.com/show/3gDS58wo6IWeLl48LHukdP?si=gmhv7Lh8QvyY5xxFS9ZpPA Apple Podcasts 🍎 https://podcasts.apple.com/hn/podcast/last2first-podcast/id1778491941 YouTube ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/@Last2FirstPodcast 💼 Connect with our guest: 🔗 Tony Carter — https://www.linkedin.com/in/tony-carter-09520311/ 📌 Shoutout to our Sponsors! Dropoff Inc. https://www.dropoff.com/ info@dropoff.com +1 888-376-7633 GigSafe https://www.gigsafe.com/ +1 407-496-9882 Deliver Different https://deliverdifferent.com/
In this episode, Jason sits down with Jim Bernecker, President & Chief Sales Officer of Relay Express, to unpack how a regional courier scaled across Cincinnati, Dayton, Columbus, Cleveland, Detroit, Indianapolis, and Louisville—and how they balance on-demand, medical/pharma routes, and a large-vehicle distribution arm. You’ll hear how Relay built density with cross-dock operations, why they’ve supported the independent contractor (IC) model for 39 years, how they vet master contractors, and the playbook Jim uses to bid, price, and protect margins—even as gig platforms push prices down. We also get into ECA/CLDA marketplace strategy, compliance/chain of custody, and developing young talent for 24/7 operations. Direct quotes from Jim: “They handed me a pager, an atlas, and a Chamber of Commerce directory.” “First success was… a cross dock… sweep at 3:00 PM → sort → next-day by noon.” What you’ll learn ✅Building a hybrid carrier: on-demand, medical/pharma, and truck distribution Cross-dock economics: sorting, next-day by noon, returns & pallet (skid) costs ✅IC vs. gig: compliance, chain of custody, quality and margin impact ✅Master contractors: when they work, how to vet, and backups/overage ✅Route design & pricing: contribution margin by account, daily/weekly reviews ✅Enterprise expansion: how one customer pulls you into new markets (the right way) ✅ECA marketplace & CLDA advocacy: turning conferences into real revenue ✅Talent: hiring for curiosity/work ethic, college recruiting, 24/7 expectations 🎧 Listen & Subscribe: Spotify 🎧 https://open.spotify.com/show/3gDS58wo6IWeLl48LHukdP?si=gmhv7Lh8QvyY5xxFS9ZpPA Apple Podcasts 🍎 https://podcasts.apple.com/hn/podcast/last2first-podcast/id1778491941 YouTube ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/@Last2FirstPodcast 💼 Connect with our guest: 🔗 Jim Bernecker —https://www.linkedin.com/in/jim-bernecker-20932213/ 📌 Shoutout to our Sponsors! Dropoff Inc. https://www.dropoff.com/ info@dropoff.com +1 888-376-7633 GigSafe https://www.gigsafe.com/ +1 407-496-9882 Deliver Different https://deliverdifferent.com/
Episode 36 is OUT TODAY! Host Jason Burns sits down in Chicago with Assif Hussain, Founder & CEO of Great American Delivery Service, for an unfiltered look at last-mile entrepreneurship: the immigrant grind, that first dock-door win, riding out cash-flow pain, and the real math behind 3PL vs direct customers. Assif came to the U.S. with $40 and big dreams. He learned the streets from a map book, drove as an IC, then took the leap: company formation, insurance battles, a scary empty warehouse… and the first shipment that changed it all. Today his team of ~75 handles messengers/courier/expediting across Chicagoland and beyond (24/7/365). What we cover ✅From driver to founder: airport work, expediting and learning the craft ✅The “empty warehouse” chapter → when it finally paid the rent ✅Why the first big customer matters (and how he got it) ✅3PL vs direct: margin squeeze, control, and customer experience ✅Pricing pressures vs UPS/FedEx increases — how smaller carriers survive ✅TMS, communication, and the customer you lose when you don’t communicate ✅CLDA/ECA networking that actually turns into revenue ✅Leadership, responsibility, and keeping payroll safe when AR slips 👍 Like the episode, 💬 comment your biggest takeaway, and ↗️ share with your team. 🎧 Listen & Subscribe: Spotify 🎧 https://open.spotify.com/show/3gDS58wo6IWeLl48LHukdP?si=gmhv7Lh8QvyY5xxFS9ZpPA Apple Podcasts 🍎 https://podcasts.apple.com/hn/podcast/last2first-podcast/id1778491941 YouTube ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/@Last2FirstPodcast 💼 Connect with our guest: 🔗 Asif Hussain —https://www.linkedin.com/in/asif-hussain-3413a41ab/ 📌 Shoutout to our Sponsors! Dropoff Inc. https://www.dropoff.com/ info@dropoff.com +1 888-376-7633 GigSafe https://www.gigsafe.com/ +1 407-496-9882 Deliver Different https://deliverdifferent.com/
In this episode of the Last2First Podcast, host Jason Burns sits down with Joel Pinsky, CFO of Global Messenger & Logistics and the current President of the Customized Logistics and Delivery Association (CLDA). Joel’s journey is anything but traditional — from starting as a CPA, then becoming a restaurateur, to finding his way into the final mile industry through a consulting role that changed everything. Today, he leads one of the most respected logistics networks in the country and represents the voice of our industry through the CLDA. Jason and Joel dive deep into: 💡 How Joel’s financial background shaped the way he runs and scales his business 🚚 The evolution of Global Messenger — from messenger work to nationwide logistics solutions 👨👦 The realities of running a family business alongside his son 🤝 How CLDA networking creates million-dollar opportunities for members 📈 Why the future of the final mile depends on collaboration, innovation, and community If you’re in the logistics, courier, or delivery space — this episode is packed with insight, experience, and inspiration from one of the industry’s most respected leaders. 🎧 Listen & Subscribe: Spotify 🎧 https://open.spotify.com/show/3gDS58wo6IWeLl48LHukdP?si=gmhv7Lh8QvyY5xxFS9ZpPA Apple Podcasts 🍎 https://podcasts.apple.com/hn/podcast/last2first-podcast/id1778491941 YouTube ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/@Last2FirstPodcast 💼 Connect with our guest: 🔗 Joel Pinsky — https://www.linkedin.com/in/joel-pinsky-1a57b6194/ 📌 Shoutout to our Sponsors! Dropoff Inc. https://www.dropoff.com/ info@dropoff.com +1 888-376-7633 GigSafe https://www.gigsafe.com/ +1 407-496-9882 Deliver Different https://deliverdifferent.com/
This week Jason Burns sits down with Chuck Moyer — President of Task4Pros, CLDA Hall of Famer, and one of the most respected leaders in the final mile industry. With over 40 years of experience, Chuck has seen it all — from dispatching with wall cards and map books to leveraging AI, automation, and innovative labor solutions to scale businesses nationwide. In this episode, Chuck shares: ✅ How he scaled a company from $3M → $100M in revenue ✅ Why 1–2 hour delivery deserves more value than overnight shipping ✅ Lessons from private equity and large-scale growth ✅ The future of labor, warehousing, and Task4Pros’ on-demand staffing model ✅ Why embracing AI and innovation is the key to staying ahead If you’re serious about logistics, courier services, or supply chain innovation, this conversation is packed with insights you won’t want to miss. 🎧 Listen on your favorite platform: 🔗 Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/3gDS58wo6IWeLl48LHukdP?si=gmhv7Lh8QvyY5xxFS9ZpPA 🔗 Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/hn/podcast/last2first-podcast/id1778491941 📲 Follow our guest: LinkedIn: Chuck Moyer https://www.linkedin.com/in/crmoyer/ Company: Task4Pros https://www.task4pros.com/ 📌 Shoutout to our Sponsors! Dropoff Inc. https://www.dropoff.com/ info@dropoff.com +1 888-376-7633 GigSafe https://www.gigsafe.com/ +1 407-496-9882 Deliver Different https://deliverdifferent.com/ #Last2First #Podcast #FinalMile #Logistics #Task4Pros #AI #SupplyChain
Season 4 of the Last2First Podcast kicks off with Ryan Schwalbach, President at NOW Courier. Ryan’s journey as a second-generation owner is full of highs, lows, and tough decisions—including firing his largest customer just years after acquiring the company from his parents. In this conversation, Ryan shares raw insights on leadership, resilience, and navigating a courier business through change, growth, and eventual sale. Topics We Cover in This Episode: ✅Second-generation ownership in the final mile industry ✅Transitioning a family business to the next generation ✅Scaling operations with independent contractor drivers ✅Tough leadership calls and letting go of major accounts ✅Customer relationships, pricing power, and profitability ✅Navigating market shifts and industry pressures ✅The emotional side of acquisitions and ownership ✅Building resilience as a leader in uncertain times ✅Selling a courier business and what drives the decision ✅The future of the final mile: data, drivers, and leadership 🔥 Season 4 also introduces a brand-new segment: 🚛 Driving the Mile — ride-along with drivers for a ground-level perspective 👉 Don’t miss a single episode! Subscribe: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Last2FirstPodcast Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3gDS58wo6IWeLl48LHukdP?si=gmhv7Lh8QvyY5xxFS9ZpPA Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/hn/podcast/last2first-podcast/id1778491941 👉 Connect with our guest: Follow Ryan Schwalbach on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanschwalbach/ Follow NOW Courier: https://www.nowcourier.com/ #Last2FirstPodcast #FinalMile #Season4 #NOWCourier
n this Off-Season Exclusive, Jason sits down with Andy Tryba (Co-founder & CEO, Ionic Partners, the new owner of CXT Software) to answer the big questions: Why acquire CXT? What changes now? And where is last-mile tech headed next? We dig into: ✅How Ionic plans to double down on CXT’s product velocity (weekly releases, automated testing, AI-first engineering) ✅A vision for a truly autonomous TMS: automated dispatch, route optimization, and exception management at scale ✅Practical AI use cases you can deploy now (driver onboarding, training, proof-of-delivery with computer vision, proactive ops alerts) ✅Margin protection: consolidating tools, integrations, and data to lower software costs and boost productivity ✅Interoperability: small operators working seamlessly with big players via data transforms & APIs ✅Preparing for drones, AVs, and robotics—and why the winning stack will be horizontal and cloud-based ✅Talent: building elite, AI-native teams (globally) and a remote culture that actually works Who should watch: final-mile & medical courier owners, ops leaders, dispatch teams, and anyone rethinking their TMS, routing, or compliance stack.
In the third episode of our CUI Insurance mini-series, Jason Burns sits down with Tanner Owens, President of CUI Insurance Agency, to dive deep into trucking compliance, risk management, and how final-mile carriers can learn from trucking best practices. From CAB reports and FMCSA safety scores to workers’ comp E-Mod analysis, telematics, and return-to-work programs, this conversation breaks down what insurance carriers really look at—and how you can position your company as a “gold account” that wins better rates. In this episode, you’ll learn: ✅Why final mile delivery is starting to look more like trucking 🚚 ✅How CAB scores (unsafe driving, hours of service, maintenance) affect your insurability ✅The impact of workers’ comp E-Mods on your premiums—and how to fix costly errors ✅Why safety programs, telematics, and dashcams aren’t optional anymore ✅Smart strategies like composite rating that can stabilize your insurance costs ✅How CUI supports clients after the sale with stewardship reports, claims support, and fast COIs If you’re running a fleet—final mile, middle mile, or trucking—this is an episode you don’t want to miss. 👉 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more insights from industry leaders. #FinalMile #Trucking #Insurance #RiskManagement #LastMileDelivery
Welcome to our first international episode of Behind the Mile! 🌍 In this special Bahamas edition, Jason Burns sits down with Ceri Howells, CEO of CLX Logistics, to explore how the islands are redefining last mile logistics. From the historic role of MailBoats to pioneering new tech-driven solutions like DomesticFreight.com, Ceri shares how The Bahamas is solving challenges unique to island economies—and what global operators can learn from their approach. You’ll hear: ✅ Why controlling trade = real independence for The Bahamas ✅ How a $200 idea became a multi-million dollar logistics company ✅ The creative ways Bahamian operators use tech (hint: WhatsApp groups 👀) ✅ How DomesticFreight.com is unlocking faster, on-demand delivery between islands This episode is proof that innovation in the last mile doesn’t stop at borders. 👉 Subscribe for more episodes & insights: • Spotify → https://open.spotify.com/show/3gDS58wo6IWeLl48LHukdP?si=gmhv7Lh8QvyY5xxFS9ZpPA • Apple Podcasts → https://podcasts.apple.com/hn/podcast/last2first-podcast/id1778491941 Don't forget to follow Ceri and his team: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cerighowells/ https://clxnow.com/
Season 3 Finale with Mark Cossack (CEO, Priority Courier Experts). We dig into scaling a mixed fleet (“tissue samples to tractor trailers”), winning with on-demand dock trucks, lease-purchase programs, IC compliance, government affairs, and why “trends favor our industry”—but not the timid. Direct quotes from this episode: • “We can deliver freight at courier speed. They deliver freight at trucking speed.” • “You should not be afraid of stretching beyond your current capabilities.” • “Get your customer concentration down… you don’t want customers who are 50% of your revenue.” • “Trends kind of favor our industry… but what they don’t favor is the timid.” Subscribe & listen: 🎧 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3gDS58wo6IWeLl48LHukdP?si=gmhv7Lh8QvyY5xxFS9ZpPA 🍎 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/hn/podcast/last2first-podcast/id1778491941 Topics: on-demand vs routed, commercial margins, dock trucks & tractors, IC vs W-2, lease-purchase, safety/telematics, captives, PE-backed rollups, local direct sales in construction/manufacturing, risk & compliance. 📲 Follow Mark and Priority Courier Express 🔗 Website: https://shipwithpriority.com/ 🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/markcossack/ 📢 Connect with Our Sponsors 🚛 Deliver DFRNT – https://deliverdifferent.com/ 🛡 GigSafe – https://www.gigsafe.com/ 🚚 Dropoff – https://www.dropoff.com/ Hashtags: #LastToFirstPodcast #FinalMile #Courier #Logistics #OnDemand #Entrepreneurship #ICModel #RiskManagement #DockTrucks #Trucking
Episode 31 of the Last2First Podcast features Ruth Correa, founder and CEO of Cheetah Final Mile and Tempo Courier. Ruth’s story is one of resilience, strategy, and growth. When the housing crash of 2008 wiped out her career, she pivoted into logistics while pregnant and built two successful delivery companies across South Florida and Kansas City. Today, she leads operations spanning final mile, medical delivery, warehousing, and white glove services. In this episode, Ruth shares: ✅ How she transitioned from the housing market to logistics ✅ Lessons learned from partnerships, franchising, and scaling independently ✅ Expanding into warehousing and white glove deliveries ✅ Balancing business leadership with being a single mother ✅ Why resilience, hard work, and integrity define her success 👀 Ruth’s journey shows what it means to push through setbacks and build a business that lasts. 🎧 Listen & Subscribe: 🎧 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3gDS58wo6IWeLl48LHukdP?si=gmhv7Lh8QvyY5xxFS9ZpPA 🍏 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/hn/podcast/last2first-podcast/id1778491941 📲 Follow Ruth and Cheetah Final Mile 🔗 Website: https://cheetahfinalmile.com/ 🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ruth-correa-cfm/ 📢 Connect with Our Sponsors 🚛 Deliver DFRNT – https://deliverdifferent.com/ 🛡 GigSafe – https://www.gigsafe.com/ 🚚 Dropoff – https://www.dropoff.com/ #Last2FirstPodcast #RuthCorrea #CheetahFinalMile #TempoCourier #LogisticsLeadership #Entrepreneurship #Resilience
In this episode of the Last to First Podcast, Jason Burns sits down with Noah Alvarez, CEO of Alvy Delivers, to talk about building one of California’s fastest-growing final mile delivery companies. From launching a business with his brother, to navigating early struggles, to becoming a leader on the national CODA board, Noah shares his journey and the mindset that helped him rise quickly in the logistics industry. 👀 Whether you’re an entrepreneur, logistics professional, or just love inspirational business stories, this episode will deliver big takeaways. 👉 Don’t forget to subscribe to stay updated on new episodes every Tuesday! 📲 Follow Noah and Alvy Delivers 🔗 Website: https://www.linkedin.com/company/alvy-delivers-inc/ https://alvydelivers.com/home 🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/noah-alvarez-3836ba162/ 📢 Connect with Our Sponsors 🚛 Deliver DFRNT – https://deliverdifferent.com/ 🛡 GigSafe – https://www.gigsafe.com/ 🚚 Dropoff – https://www.dropoff.com/ 🎧 Listen & Subscribe Spotify 👉 https://open.spotify.com/show/3gDS58wo6IWeLl48LHukdP?si=gmhv7Lh8QvyY5xxFS9ZpPA Apple 👉 https://podcasts.apple.com/hn/podcast/last2first-podcast/id1778491941 📧 For podcast inquiries or collaborations: info@last2firstpodcast.com Embark on a motivational journey of personal growth and success story. Overcoming life challenges requires resilience, and this english speech provides the inspiration you need. Believe and achieve your goals with a positive mindset. #lasttofirst #FinalMile #ALBaptiste #DeliveryIndustry #BusinessGrowth #logisticsleadership #Last2FirstPodcast #FinalMile #Entrepreneurship #Logistics #Leadership
In this inspiring Last to First Podcast episode, Jason Burns sits down with AL Baptiste, President & CEO of 24/7 Enterprises, LLC and CLDA board member, to talk about his remarkable journey from Haiti to leading a multi-market final mile company.We cover his entrepreneurial story, scaling into multiple states, breaking into healthcare logistics, navigating government contracts, the power of partnerships, and the discipline it takes to build a lasting business. 01:56 – Guest Welcome: Meet AL Baptiste 02:38 – Personal Connections and Family 03:41 – Overview of 24/7 Enterprises 04:33 – Focus on Healthcare Logistics 06:22 – AL Baptiste’s Entrepreneurial Journey 08:49 – Starting 24/7 Courier Services 12:08 – Challenges and Early Marketing Strategies 14:52 – Entering the Healthcare Sector 16:24 – Government Contracts and Partnerships 21:28 – Expanding Beyond Courier Services 23:45 – Leveraging Business Certifications 28:53 – Financial Management and Cash Flow 32:24 – Understanding Government Contracts and Costs 34:16 – Expanding Business Across States 37:43 – Family Involvement in Business 42:04 – The Importance of Discipline 47:47 – Community Involvement and Giving Back 53:15 – Future of the Final Mile Industry 📲 Follow AL Baptiste & 24/7 Enterprises 🔗 Website: https://www.247csl.com/ 🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/al-baptiste-2b693613/ 📢 Connect with Our Sponsors 🚛 Deliver DFRNT – https://deliverdifferent.com/ 🛡 GigSafe – https://www.gigsafe.com/ 🚚 Dropoff – https://www.dropoff.com/ 🎧 Listen & Subscribe ▶️ YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@Last2FirstPodcast 🎧 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3gDS58wo6IWeLl48LHukdP?si=gmhv7Lh8QvyY5xxFS9ZpPA 🍎 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/hn/podcast/last2first-podcast/id1778491941 #lasttofirst #FinalMile #ALBaptiste #DeliveryIndustry #BusinessGrowth #logisticsleadership Embark on a motivational journey of personal growth and success story. Overcoming life challenges requires resilience, and this english speech provides the inspiration you need. Believe and achieve your goals with a positive mindset.
🔥 This isn’t your typical logistics interview. Welcome to the Hot Seat edition of the Last2First Podcast, where we combine spicy wings with even spicier insights. Jason Burns sits down with Chris Heffernan, CEO of Dlivrd, to talk business, culture, tech — and try to survive five levels of hot sauce. From humble beginnings as a solo founder delivering Philly cheesesteaks, Chris now leads Delivered, a 172-market operation specializing in large-format catering deliveries with over 12,000 independent drivers across the U.S. and Canada. 01:54 Introduction and Welcome 02:11 Nostalgia and Philly Memories 03:23 Introducing the Hot Seat Episode 04:39 Delivered: The Business Model 06:26 Founding Story and Early Challenges 09:47 Scaling and Pivoting the Business 12:21 Hot Sauce Challenge Begins 13:40 Philly Sports and Crazy Fan Stories 18:52 COVID-19 Impact and Business Growth 22:06 Delivery Models and Unit Economics 28:45 Driver Valuation and Job Selection 28:54 Hot Sauce Challenge: Level Three 30:05 Automation vs. Humanization in Business 35:26 International Expansion and Cultural Differences 42:52 Video-First Culture and Transparency 53:21 Final Thoughts and Sports Talk 💥 Whether you're a founder, a final mile delivery operator, or just someone who loves a good business + wings combo, this episode is straight fire. 👉 And don’t forget to follow Chris and his team at Dlivrd on social media for more inspiration and updates!🔗🚚 https://www.linkedin.com/company/dlivrd/posts/?feedView=all https://dlivrd.io/ Shoutout to our sponsors: DFRNT Delivers https://deliverdifferent.com/ / deliverdfrnt Dropoff Inc. https://www.dropoff.com/ info@dropoff.com +1-888-376-7633 GigSafe https://www.gigsafe.com/ +1 407-496-9882 #Last2FirstPodcast #GeorgeShultz #AIinLogistics #FigureAI #FinalMile #RoboticsInWarehousing #LastMileFuture #LogisticsLeadership #SubscribeNow #SupplyChainTech 👉 LIKE + SUBSCRIBE for more weekly episodes of Last to First! 🎧 Available on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts 📲 Follow us @Last2FirstPodcast for more BTS clips and updates. Scale Venture Partners is mentioned as the video highlights the journey of business expansion across the United States. This business podcast shares business tips for entrepreneurs looking for business growth. Learn more about growth strategies in this episode.
🔥 This isn’t your typical logistics interview. Welcome to the Hot Seat edition of the Last2First Podcast, where we combine spicy wings with even spicier insights. Jason Burns sits down with Chris Heffernan, CEO of Dlivrd, to talk business, culture, tech — and try to survive five levels of hot sauce. From humble beginnings as a solo founder delivering Philly cheesesteaks, Chris now leads Delivered, a 172-market operation specializing in large-format catering deliveries with over 12,000 independent drivers across the U.S. and Canada. 01:54 Introduction and Welcome 02:11 Nostalgia and Philly Memories 03:23 Introducing the Hot Seat Episode 04:39 Delivered: The Business Model 06:26 Founding Story and Early Challenges 09:47 Scaling and Pivoting the Business 12:21 Hot Sauce Challenge Begins 13:40 Philly Sports and Crazy Fan Stories 18:52 COVID-19 Impact and Business Growth 22:06 Delivery Models and Unit Economics 28:45 Driver Valuation and Job Selection 28:54 Hot Sauce Challenge: Level Three 30:05 Automation vs. Humanization in Business 35:26 International Expansion and Cultural Differences 42:52 Video-First Culture and Transparency 53:21 Final Thoughts and Sports Talk 💥 Whether you're a founder, a final mile delivery operator, or just someone who loves a good business + wings combo, this episode is straight fire. 👉 And don’t forget to follow Chris and his team at Dlivrd on social media for more inspiration and updates!🔗🚚 https://www.linkedin.com/company/dlivrd/posts/?feedView=all https://dlivrd.io/ Shoutout to our sponsors: DFRNT Delivers https://deliverdifferent.com/ / deliverdfrnt Dropoff Inc. https://www.dropoff.com/ info@dropoff.com +1-888-376-7633 GigSafe https://www.gigsafe.com/ +1 407-496-9882 #Last2FirstPodcast #GeorgeShultz #AIinLogistics #FigureAI #FinalMile #RoboticsInWarehousing #LastMileFuture #LogisticsLeadership #SubscribeNow #SupplyChainTech 👉 LIKE + SUBSCRIBE for more weekly episodes of Last to First! 🎧 Available on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts 📲 Follow us @Last2FirstPodcast for more BTS clips and updates.
AI is here — and the logistics industry better be ready. In Episode 26 of the Last2First Podcast, Jason Burns sits down with George Shultz, a veteran logistics leader and tech-forward thinker, to talk about the AI and robotics wave that’s reshaping the final mile. From Figure.ai’s bipedal robots sorting packages at BMW’s Spartanburg plant to China mandating AI education in schools, this episode explores the global trends final mile operators can’t afford to ignore. George challenges operators to stop playing defense — and start investing in the future. 01:45 Introduction and Guest Welcome 02:56 Fetch Package: Company Background and Growth 05:11 Fetch Package: Operations and Customer Experience 10:35 Innovative Services: Valet Trash and Storage Solutions 15:43 Fetch Market: Convenience at Your Doorstep 20:43 Exploring New Markets: Student Housing and Future Plans 22:25 George Shultz: Career Journey and Insights 24:36 Brand Transition and Career Beginnings 24:54 Joining the FedEx Freight Team 25:19 People Development Philosophy 26:09 Managing Large Teams at FedEx 26:45 Transition to Central Transport 27:11 Sales Experience and Big Brands 28:05 Joining Amazon 31:44 Amazon Air and Robotics 37:59 Balancing Data and Human Interaction 42:41 The Role of AI in Modern Business 47:14 Advice for Career Growth 🎧 Available now on all platforms — don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more insights every Tuesday! 🔗 Subscribe: YouTube → http://www.youtube.com/@Last2FirstPodcast Spotify → https://open.spotify.com/show/3gDS58wo6IWeLl48LHukdP Apple Podcasts → https://podcasts.apple.com/hn/podcast/last2first-podcast/id1778491941 And don’t forget to follow George and his team at Fetch Package on social media for more inspiration and updates!🔗🚚 https://www.linkedin.com/company/fetch-package-delivery/ https://fetchpackage.com/ Shoutout to our sponsors: DFRNT Delivers https://deliverdifferent.com/ / deliverdfrnt Dropoff Inc. https://www.dropoff.com/ info@dropoff.com +1-888-376-7633 GigSafe https://www.gigsafe.com/ +1 407-496-9882 #Last2FirstPodcast #GeorgeShultz #AIinLogistics #FigureAI #FinalMile #RoboticsInWarehousing #LastMileFuture #LogisticsLeadership #SubscribeNow #SupplyChainTech Listen in as they share their insights on business, offering valuable business tips and success stories. This episode is packed with insights on building effective teams and achieving business success. Join them for a discussion filled with teamwork, and collaborative strategies.
🚨 In-Season Exclusive with Openforce In our first-ever in-season exclusive, we sit down with Wendy Greenland, CEO of Openforce, and Carly Fleisher, VP of Strategic Accounts, for a powerful and eye-opening conversation about risk, compliance, and the future of the independent contractor model in the final mile industry. We cover: ✅How small mistakes — from dispatcher language to payment workflows — can trigger massive audits ✅The truth behind misclassification lawsuits and how they actually start ✅ Openforce’s response to the current legal challenges and what it means for the industry ✅Wendy’s journey as a leader and why she believes Openforce will remain a category leader ✅The real cost of compliance — and what every operator needs to know before it’s too late 🎥 Plus, don’t miss the Behind the Mile episode filmed on location at Openforce HQ in Scottsdale, AZ: 👉 https://youtu.be/UeTDi3l-Gzo And don't forget 🔔 Subscribe now to catch every episode: YouTube → http://www.youtube.com/@Last2FirstPodcast Spotify → https://open.spotify.com/show/3gDS58wo6IWeLl48LHukdP Apple Podcasts → https://podcasts.apple.com/hn/podcast/last2first-podcast/id1778491941 #Last2FirstPodcast #Openforce #WendyGreenland #CarlyFleisher #FinalMileLeadership #Compliance #1099Contractors #RiskManagement #LogisticsPodcast #SubscribeNow In this clip, Wendy Greenland shares how seemingly small things can lead to an audit. A dispatcher using the wrong terminology or too many wage claims can open a door for an irs audit. Even if you think you have tax compliance covered, are you sure your dispatchers do? #Last2FirstPodcast