True trucker stories.

Podcast

195: Training Wheels

In this week's captivating episode, we sit down with seasoned trucker and trainer Devin, who shares his rich experiences from the road. Devin's stories offer a blend of humor, insight, and practical advice, covering everything from training new drivers to maintaining health and fitness in the trucking lifestyle. His discussions extend beyond driving, delving into personal growth and the unique challenges of a co-ed trainer. This episode is not just for trucking enthusiasts but for anyone seeking a glimpse into the diverse and dynamic world of life behind the wheel.

Read More
Tony MerkelComment
194: Farm Fields and Freeways

In this week's episode we are joined by Mike and Cole, a father-son duo in the trucking industry. They share their heartwarming and insightful journey. Mike reminisces about his childhood on a dairy farm, where his fascination with milk trucks sparked his long-lasting career in trucking. Cole, following in his father's footsteps, brings a fresh enthusiasm to the conversation, reflecting on his recent venture into the profession. The duo also dives into their experiences with truck driving competitions, highlighting the significance of skill and safety in their field. Filled with humor, wisdom, and a genuine bond, this episode offers a unique glimpse into the lives of two passionate truckers and the familial ties that bind them in their professional pursuits. Whether you're a trucking enthusiast or just love compelling stories, this episode is a fantastic listen. So sit back, relax and enjoy the show!

Read More
Tony Merkel
193: Escape From New York

In this week's episode, Brian and Shipper are joined by Zach, a former New Yorker turned Cincinnati resident. He explains his decision to leave New York and what led him to Cincinnati. He shares personal anecdotes about his life changes post-move, including unexpected fertility success. The episode takes a light-hearted turn with Zach recounting his transition into the trucking industry, starting from his initial dissatisfaction with his previous job to enrolling in a trucking school, and eventually embracing life on the road. Zach then shares stories from his trucking experiences, highlighting the unique aspects of different states like Ohio and New York, and the camaraderie among truck drivers. So sit back, relax, and enjoy the show!

Read More
Tony MerkelComment
192: Tour Bus Tales

In this week's episode, Brian and Shipper catch up with Connor, a professional driver for entertainer coaches, who was on episode 42: Rock N' Roll Express. Connor discusses his life post-COVID, highlighting the revival of his work since summer 2021. He details the challenges faced during the pandemic, including adapting to new regulations and the return to a busy schedule. Connor vividly describes the unique aspects of his job, from ensuring the safety and comfort of artists as they travel overnight to different cities, to handling various kinds of trailers for productions and merchandise. He shares intriguing experiences with different clients, including one who carries workout equipment for fitness routines on tour.

The conversation also delves into the logistics of tour planning, such as navigating through city venues and managing back-to-back shows. Connor gives insight into the diverse backgrounds of people in the touring industry and the strong sense of camaraderie among crew members. The guys and Connor discuss the impact of COVID-19 on touring, with Connor recalling his time driving for traveling nurses. This episode paints a vivid picture of the life of a tour bus driver, highlighting the resilience and adaptability required in this unique profession, and the behind-the-scenes efforts that contribute to the success of band tours. So sit back, relax, and crank it to 11 while Connor shares about the life of a tour bus driver.

Read More
Tony MerkelComment
191: Super 10 Chronicles

In this week's episode, Brian and Shipper are joined by Scott, who shares his truck driving experiences. From technical difficulties to navigating the complexities of a Super 10 transmission, Scott takes us on a journey through his many experiences including, training with two different instructors. He vividly describes the challenges and joys of life on the road, from encountering lot lizards to witnessing the breathtaking landscapes of the Rocky Mountains. Scott also shares his amusing border-crossing experience into Canada and reflects on the valuable lessons he learned from his trainers. Join us for a fascinating glimpse across North America, and into the world of truck driving and the adventures on the open road!

Read More
Tony MerkelComment
190: Holiday Hauls

In this week's episode Brian and Shipper are treated to a lively and heartwarming conversation in studio by Gary, a seasoned truck driver, and his wife Allison. Gary, with decades of trucking experience, humorously discusses topics like car colors, notably “pull me over red”, and recounts charming anecdotes such as naming a car "Mater." Their conversation dives into nostalgia as they reminisce about their hometowns, sharing detailed memories of local streets and landmarks and the unexpected connections between their lives. Shifting gears, Gary shares stories about his road experiences, the challenges with different trucking companies, and the complexities of handling large vehicles. This episode was full of laughs, industry insights, and a unique and authentic glimpse into the trucking world. So sit back, relax, and enjoy the laughter, nostalgia, and trucker's wisdom in a cozy, festive atmosphere.

Read More
Tony MerkelComment
189: Mudslides and Jackknifes

In this week's episode, the guys are joined by Ken, a retired truck driver with over 30 years of experience on the road. Despite facing challenges like power outages and chilly weather, Ken shares his experiences hauling a variety of loads, from agriculture and frozen meat to heavy equipment. He sheds light on the unique challenges of transporting oversized loads and tells a gripping story of maneuvering a loaded tanker with no baffles. Ken's anecdotes include encounters with wildlife, the dangers of reckless drivers, and the adrenaline-pumping "beaver slide" technique used in California's logging roads. Join us for a fascinating conversation about life on the road and the unexpected twists that keep truckers like Ken on their toes.

Read More
Tony MerkelComment
130: It's up WHERE?!

In episode 130: It's up WHERE?!; the guys chat with Mike a long time EMT in a major city. Needless to say, this means Mike has a LOT of stories to share. He shares his back story on how he got into the job, and also how he ended up in the area he's in. Mike had so many stories he shared, and still had more! We hope you enjoy this episode! 

Read More
Tony MerkelComment
129: A Lineage of Trucking

In episode 129: A Lineage of Trucking; Brian and Shipper are joined in studio for a great chat with Nevin Jr. Last week, we had Nevin Jr's dad on the show, and this week we get to sit down with the man who learned from the master. As Nevin shares, driving is just in his family's veins, and that's a good thing. From the time he was a young buck he would watch his dad at work, and see the life of a trucker up close. This didn't deter him, it just opened his eyes to what he could also do. Now Nevin works at Pitt-Ohio and enjoys every minute of it, but it just shows you how we are shaped by our family. This was a great time in the studio with the guys, and we know you'll enjoy the conversation. So sit back, relax, and enjoy the show!

Read More
Tony MerkelComment
128: Born to Run

In episode 128: Born to Run; the guys sit down in studio with Nevin Sr., a retired truck driver and man of many hats! Nevin had been in and around trucks since he was 5 years old, and his dad would take him along to the butcher's. There Nevin would enjoy the old, beaten-up, truck behind the butcher's shop, pretending to shift gears and drive all over the world. From that point on he had a hankering for the open road. As time went on, he got a job on a farm and then graduated into longer distances. From Dallas to New England, Nevin covered thousands of miles and eventually was able to accomplish a dream of his, and own a farm. All of this didn't come without some unbelievable stories along the way. He's had failed brakes, Cabbage Patch nightmares, and even a wild hurricane experience. Needless to say, Nevin has seen it all, or at least more than most, and we enjoyed the time spent sitting down with him. So sit back, relax and enjoy this incredible conversation with Nevin Sr.

Read More
Tony MerkelComment
127: FLIPPED!

In episode 127: FLIPPED!; Shipper and Brian have a great conversation with Jeremy, a line haul driver. Jeremy started out running his own company as a "Hotshot Hauler", hooking up anything he could haul to his pickup truck and hitting the road. He ran in this line of work for over a year until it came to an abrupt end. From there he bounced between a few other gigs, before landing on his feet as a dockworker in an LTL company. Once he was around the big rigs, he attained his CDL, and worked his way to the line haul position he has today. All of Jeremy's experience in his different positions have helped him to get to where he is today, in one of the best industries to be a part of. He shared with us the life lessons he's learned along the way, as well as the many things he's seen on the road in that time. The guys thoroughly enjoyed this conversation, and we know you will too! So sit back, relax, and enjoy the show!

Read More
Tony MerkelComment
126: Operation Generator Drop

In episode 126: Operation Generator Drop; Shipper and Brian have a conversation with Ben! Starting with his Class C 25+ years ago, Ben has had his fair share of incredible incidences while on the job. This was an awesome episode, and we hope you all enjoy it!!

Read More
Tony MerkelComment
125: Tattle-Tail Sally

In episode 125: Tattle-Tail Sally; Brian and Shipper chat with their friend Bill. In Bill's time driving he's had quite a plethora of experiences. From running a fleet while also driving for a company, to being involved in a dangerous accident, there is no doubt Bill has seen it all. There's no shortage of banter in this one. We hope you enjoy the show, and thanks for listening!

Read More
Tony MerkelComment
124: Sunshine State Trucking

In episode 124: Sunshine State Trucking; Brian and Shipper get to chat with Garrett, a young driver from the sunny state of Florida. Garrett was introduced to trucking from the time he was a youngster, with his dad being a driver, he was always around the lifestyle. When he was old enough, Garrett became a dock worker at his dad's company and stayed on the dock for several years, until he felt the desire to get behind the wheel. Since he became a driver, he's been in delivery and has had many entertaining experiences, and some surprising responsibilities. Garrett shares with us his feelings on driving, customers, and even parenting. This was a great show, so we hope you enjoy it!

Read More
Lindsay MerkelComment
123: #MOO!

In episode 123: #MOO!; Brian and Shipper are joined by Dakota from Texas. Through the years, Dakota has been involved in many different facets of the industry, but that's not where he started. As a young man, Dakota was a security guard for over 6 years, in hopes of becoming a police officer, but as time went on he decided to take up driving. He tells of the time he spent in training with a "trainer" who was less than interested in helping him learn, and more interested in the back of their eyelids. He also tells of the time he spent as a team driver with his brother-in-law, as well as the many stories he has as a trainer himself. This was a great show, and we hope you truly enjoy it!

Read More
Lindsay MerkelComment
122: Logistics of The Trade

In episode 122: Logistics of The Trade; Shipper and Brian are joined by Denny, an old friend of Shipper. From a young age Denny has been working in and around the trucking industry. He started off in industrial maintenance, but once he heard of the opportunity driving offered, he made the switch. He's been on the logistics side and the driving side for Air Products, and has really enjoyed his time there. There was a lot talked about in this one, from what it's like as a driver with a camera on you in the cab, to how the cost of diesel effects the drivers and companies, and much more. Thanks so much for listening! Enjoy the show!

Read More
Lindsay MerkelComment
121: Cruising Through a Sandstorm

In Episode 121: Cruising Through a Sandstorm, Brian and Shipper have a great time talking with Johnson and Jamie, husband-and-wife team drivers. In their time driving together they have had some unbelievable events happen to them. From tornadoes to sandstorms, to bombs exploding, they've been through so much together. Buckle up and get ready to cruise through a new episode!

Read More
Lindsay MerkelComment
119: Hauling Goose!

In Episode 119: Hauling Goose, Brian and Shipper have a great conversation with Will. From the time Will was just a youngster, driving has been in his blood. His dad got him into the game early in life, and Will even joined him on some of his deliveries, including a time he hauled a goose! Will has had plenty of his own experiences while driving as well, which led to some great stories, so buckle up and get ready to haul some goose!

Read More
Lindsay MerkelComment
118: Tales From the South

In Episode 118: Tales From the South, Brian and Shipper chat with Melissa, a longtime driver. She's been in several different fields, from banking to emergency dispatch, to driving in a big rig - she's done it all! These opportunities have led to quite a lot of experience and wisdom on the road. In her time behind the wheel, Melissa has seen many interesting sights, from alligators to dogman! She has no shortage of stories to tell, so buckle up and enjoy the show as Melissa takes us on a tour of tales from the south.

Read More
Lindsay MerkelComment
117: Running Independent

In Episode 117: Running Independent, Brian and Shipper talk to Shipper's old friend, Eric. During Eric's time as a trucker, he's had a plethora of experiences that he shares with the guys, and also explains what it's like to be an independent trucker. Eric worked for a few companies, including Pitt Ohio, before settling on being an independent trucker, so buckle up and get ready to run independent with him!

Read More
Lindsay MerkelComment