In this episode, host Jeremy Reymer sits down with Nick Klingensmith, High-Impact Keynote Speaker, Author, Mental Endurance & Sales Performance Coach at Stride Motivation for a conversation about overcoming obstacles, improving health, and resilience in the trucking and logistics industry.
They zoom in on Nick’s personal journey of battling cancer, diabetes, and addiction, and how those challenges led him to a life focused on mental and physical endurance. Nick shares practical tips for drivers and others in the industry, highlighting the power of small, intentional changes and the importance of creating a strong “why” to fuel personal growth.
Listen in as they explore the role of community, the impact of consistent effort, and how Stride Motivation is helping individuals push through limitations and thrive both mentally and physically in the demanding world of trucking.
In this episode, Sam Watts, founder of Wattsmen Diesel House, shares how firsthand experience with a DOT audit led him deep into safety and compliance. Starting with a conditional rating and no formal background in safety, Sam recounts how necessity forced him to learn fast and build from the ground up.
Sam and Jeremy talk about why most small fleets struggle to stay compliant, how technology can either help or hurt depending on its use, and what Sam’s learned from years of hands-on work inside real operations. They also talk through the launch of the Wattsmen Safety Subscription, a resource designed to give small carriers access to training, templates, and guidance without the high cost of a full-time safety team.
This episode is a practical look at what safety means for small trucking companies, and how one person's lived experience is now helping others protect their business.
In this episode, Bob Book, Director of Marketing for Road Dog Care Company and VP of Marketing for Revolution Trucking, shares his path from general marketing into the world of trucking and wellness. He reflects on the surprising warmth of the trucking community and how genuine connections fuel long-term success.
Bob and Jeremy discuss how Road Dog Care evolved from a coffee brand into a complete wellness company, offering hygiene and health products designed by and for truckers. They also explore how thoughtful marketing and small gestures can improve retention and driver satisfaction.
This episode offers valuable insights into brand evolution, wellness on the road, and the power of marketing with heart. If you're interested in how care and creativity can shape a stronger trucking industry, this conversation is for you.
In this episode, Chelsea Faulkner, Director of Operations for HandledNow and host of Drive, shares her journey from staffing to the trucking industry. She discusses the challenges of connecting drivers and office teams and how HandledNow is helping companies find the right fit for long-term success.
Chelsea and Jeremy explore the importance of bridging the gap between office staff and drivers to improve overall industry dynamics. They also touch on how creating a culture of mutual respect can drive positive change.This episode offers valuable insights into connecting people across the trucking industry. If you’re curious about improving communication and building better relationships, this conversation is for you.
In this episode, PJ Barclay, President and CEO of Impirica, shares his journey from the world of accounting to tackling impairment in the trucking industry. After recognizing the need for better safety measures, PJ explains how cognitive science and technology came together to create solutions for improving driver wellness and safety.
He and Jeremy discuss the broader issue of impairment, addressing factors like fatigue, mental health, and other conditions that impact a driver’s ability to perform safely. PJ also reveals how Impirica’s technology is helping the industry proactively measure impairment risk and enhance safety standards.
This conversation is all about pushing boundaries in safety, embracing innovation, and understanding the human side of the issue. If you’re curious about how cognitive science and technology are shaping the future of trucking safety, this episode will give you plenty to think about.
In this episode, host Jeremy Reymer sits down with Becky Schmitz, Executive Director of Vikingland Community Support Program and creator of the Mental Health Toolbox, for a conversation centered on mental well-being in the trucking industry.
They unpack the hidden toll isolation, irregular routines, and chronic stress can take on drivers and why small, consistent habits matter. Becky shares how a simple check-in method, such as HALT, can become a powerful tool for self-awareness and how her red toolbox is helping to reframe the mental health conversation in unexpected ways.
Listen to this conversation where they explore the importance of staying connected, the connection between food and mood, and what it means to normalize asking for help in an industry built on strength.
In this episode, host Jeremy Reymer chats with Evan Shelley, CEO and co-founder of Truck Parking Club, to explore one of the industry’s most persistent and costly issues: truck parking.
Evan shares how a real estate background and a deep understanding of driver pain points led him to create a tech-enabled platform that rapidly adds thousands of parking spaces nationwide. They discuss the actual impact of parking scarcity and why solving this issue is key to improving retention and compliance.
This conversation offers practical insights on how more innovative parking solutions can drive real results for your business and people.
In this episode, Jason Douglass opens up about the journey that brought him full circle: from leaving a company he loved, to returning with unfinished business and a renewed vision. Now serving as VP of Operations, Jason shares what it’s taken to rebuild not just a team, but a culture.
He and Jeremy talk about what it means to lead with heart in an industry that often demands grit over vulnerability. Jason gets real about the personal challenges he’s faced - his path to sobriety, the mental toll of injury, and what it means to show up for others even when you’re still figuring it out yourself.
This conversation is about resilience, second chances, and choosing to become the person your people can count on.If you’ve ever wondered how mental health, leadership, and personal growth intersect in the world of trucking - this one will stay with you.
In this episode, host Jeremy Reymer sits down with Dr. Gina Anderson, Co-Founder and CEO of Luma Learning, to talk about personal growth, mental health, and the role of meaningful learning in the trucking industry.Dr. Gina shares how Luma goes beyond delivering content to build human connection and measurable change through immersive training programs. She also opens up about her new book Thrive, the science behind mindset shifts, and the importance of being present.Join us for a thoughtful discussion on what it really means to invest in people, both on and off the road.
In this episode, host Jeremy Reymer is joined by Hope Zvara, CEO of Mother Trucker Yoga, to talk about what it really takes for drivers to take control of their health without stepping away from the job.
They discuss the reasons traditional wellness programs struggle to connect with drivers, how shame and overwhelm keep people from starting, and why simple, consistent actions are far more effective than big, flashy plans. Hope also shares how Mother Trucker Yoga uses accessible tools, movement routines, and mindset shifts to support health on the road in a way that meets drivers where they are.Listen to this conversation to hear how hydration, intentional movement, and a shift in daily habits can add years to your life and life to your years.
In this episode, host Jeremy Reymer is joined by Shelley Dellinger, Vice President of Recruiting and Marketing at Cargo Transporters, to discuss the challenges of driver recruitment and retention in the trucking industry.
They explore how staying engaged in the industry and supporting drivers’ well-being leads to better retention. Shelley also shares how flexibility and community involvement help make Cargo Transporters a standout company in a competitive field.
Join us for a conversation on the key strategies to keep drivers happy and engaged in an ever-evolving industry.
In this episode, host Jeremy Reymer sits down with Jessica (Paugh) Warnke, CEO of Carter Express and Chair of the Indiana Motor Truck Association, to discuss leadership, innovation, and the realities of balancing work and family in trucking.
Jessica shares how growing up in a trucking family shaped her career and the mindset that drives Carter Express forward. They explore the importance of company culture, problem-solving in logistics, and why industry advocacy matters now more than ever.Join us for a conversation on what it takes to lead in a 24/7 industry while staying true to your values.
In this episode, host Jeremy Reymer welcomes Dr. Mark Manera, Founder and CEO of Offshift, to discuss the health challenges truck drivers face and the small, sustainable changes that can make a big difference.They talk about why traditional wellness programs fail drivers, the impact of long hours and limited healthy options, and how small shifts in movement, nutrition, and sleep can improve well-being.
Dr. Mark shares practical strategies designed for life on the road, showing how even five-minute changes can lead to lasting results.
Join us for a conversation about redefining driver health and making well-being a priority, without sacrificing the job you love.
In this episode, host Jeremy Reymer sits down with Mats Holmbäck, Co-founder and CEO of Lanefinder, to explore how AI is transforming driver recruiting in the trucking industry.
They break down the inefficiencies in traditional hiring—repetitive recruiter conversations, outdated job-matching methods—and how AI-driven solutions like Lanefinder Connect are streamlining the process. Mats shares his vision for using automation to help carriers hire smarter while giving drivers more control over their job searches.
Join us for a conversation on AI’s growing impact in trucking and the technology reshaping the future of driver recruitment.
In this episode, host Jeremy Reymer welcomes Gurdon Blackwell, Chief Revenue Officer at Asurint, to explore the evolving landscape of background screening in the trucking industry.
They discuss the growing challenges of risk mitigation, the impact of nuclear verdicts, and why a thorough, well-executed background check is more than just a compliance measure, it’s a safeguard for carriers. Gurdon shares his expertise on why automation and integrations are key to faster, higher-quality hiring decisions, and gives listeners a glimpse into how Asurint’s technology helps carriers stay competitive in a fast-moving market.
Join us for an insightful conversation about smarter hiring strategies and the role of data-driven screening in protecting your business.
In this episode, host Jeremy Reymer sits down with Trey Griggs, Founder and CEO of BETA Consulting Group and Director of Operations for the Broker Carrier Summit.
They discuss the critical role of messaging in sales and marketing, the power of customer advocacy, and how startups can build a strong foundation for growth. Trey also shares insights on the Broker Carrier Summit—an event designed to foster trust and collaboration between brokers and carriers—and why it's making such an impact in the industry.Listen to learn how strategic communication and relationship-building can drive success in trucking.
In this episode, host Jeremy Reymer shares a major update about the show’s new home and its next phase of growth.
While the mission remains the same (tackling industry challenges, sharing insights, and celebrating the people who make trucking thrive), the format is evolving. Expect biweekly episodes, more discussions on leadership and personal growth, and new initiatives designed to bring even more value to listeners.
Listen to hear what’s coming next and how you can be part of the journey.
On this episode of Taking the Higher Road, we're revisiting a standout conversation with Tracy Rushing, Executive Director of Safety and Recruiting at RE Garrison, and a 2024 Influential Woman in Trucking.
Originally aired as an insightful look into driver recruiting, retention, and wellness, this episode highlights Tracy’s mission to create a destination employer—where every employee plays a role in supporting drivers. She shares how RE Garrison’s approach to driver relationships, technology, and culture fosters long-term success in an evolving industry.
Tracy and host Jeremy Reymer also dive into Project 61, a movement tackling the trucking industry’s unspoken epidemic: the alarming 61-year life expectancy of CDL drivers. They explore the responsibility companies have in improving driver wellness, practical steps for healthier lifestyles on the road, and how a simple mindset shift can make a lasting impact.
Whether you’re hearing this conversation for the first time or revisiting it, expect powerful insights on leadership, driver well-being, and the future of trucking.
Special thanks to the show’s sponsors!
DriverReach (https://www.driverreach.com)
Project 61 (https://project-61.org/)
Lanefinder (https://www.lanefinder.com/)
The National Transportation Institute (https://driverwages.com/)
Career Now Brands (https://careernowbrands.com/)
Rockerbox (https://www.rockerbox.com/)
Appcast (https://www.appcast.io/)
Trucksuite (https://trucksuite.com/)
Asurint (https://asurint.com/)
Arya By Leoforce (https://leoforce.com/)
Seiza (https://www.seiza.co/)
Drive My Way (https://www.drivemyway.com/)
F| Staff (https://www.fstaff.com/)
Trucksafe (https://www.trucksafe.com/)
Seated Social (https://seated-social.com/)
If you’re interested in joining the show or being a sponsor, please email jeremy@takingthehireroad.com---
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On this episode of Taking the Hire Road, we’re revisiting a standout conversation featuring Jeremy Reymer, founder of DriverReach and the passion project Project 61. Originally aired as an inspiring call to action for the trucking industry, this episode sheds light on the alarming statistic of a 61-year life expectancy for CDL drivers and Jeremy's mission to change that narrative.
Jeremy shares his journey into trucking, the origins of Project 61, and how the movement aims to educate, raise awareness, and provide resources to improve driver health and wellness. He also discusses the critical role companies can play in supporting their drivers and the ROI benefits of health and wellness programs tailored to the industry.Whether you’re tuning in for the first time or revisiting this powerful conversation, get ready to hear insights that could redefine the future of driver health and retention.
Special thanks to the show’s sponsors!
DriverReach (https://www.driverreach.com)
Project 61 (https://project-61.org/)
Lanefinder (https://www.lanefinder.com/)
The National Transportation Institute (https://driverwages.com/)
Career Now Brands (https://careernowbrands.com/)
Rockerbox (https://www.rockerbox.com/)
Appcast (https://www.appcast.io/)
Trucksuite (https://trucksuite.com/)
Asurint (https://asurint.com/)
Arya By Leoforce (https://leoforce.com/)
Seiza (https://www.seiza.co/)
Drive My Way (https://www.drivemyway.com/)
F|Staff (https://www.fstaff.com/)
Trucksafe (https://www.trucksafe.com/)
Seated Social (https://seated-social.com/)
If you’re interested in joining the show or being a sponsor, please email jeremy@takingthehireroad.com
Follow Us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/taking-the-hire-road/
On this episode of Taking the Hire Road, we’re revisiting a favorite episode featuring Karen Smerchek, President of Veriha Trucking and the next Chair of the Truckload Carriers Association (TCA). Originally aired during a critical moment in the industry, this conversation highlights Karen’s story of leading a family business, the legacy of trucking, and her passion for improving the lives of drivers and industry personnel.
Karen and Jeremy Reymer also explore how carriers can navigate today’s challenging operating environment and the unique value associations like TCA bring to the table.
Whether you’re listening for the first time or revisiting this episode, get ready to hear some insights from one of the best in the business.
Special thanks to the show’s sponsors!
DriverReach (https://www.driverreach.com)
Project 61 (https://project-61.org/)
Lanefinder (https://www.lanefinder.com/)
The National Transportation Institute (https://driverwages.com/)
Career Now Brands (https://careernowbrands.com/)
Rockerbox (https://www.rockerbox.com/)
Appcast (https://www.appcast.io/)
Trucksuite (https://trucksuite.com/)
Asurint (https://asurint.com/)
Arya By Leoforce (https://leoforce.com/)
Seiza (https://www.seiza.co/)
Drive My Way (https://www.drivemyway.com/)
F| Staff (https://www.fstaff.com/)
Trucksafe (https://www.trucksafe.com/)
Seated Social (https://seated-social.com/)
If you’re interested in joining the show or being a sponsor, please email jeremy@takingthehireroad.com---
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Follow Us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/taking-the-hire-road/