Rollin&#x27; 18 Podcast

Picture this: a week thrown off-kilter by unexpected facility breakdowns, yet providing the perfect backdrop to discuss the seismic shift as Donald Trump reclaims the presidency, now as the 47th President of the United States. We'll explore how the trucking industry is gearing up to adapt and collaborate, with insights from industry heavyweights David Heller of the Truckload Carriers Association and Todd Spencer of the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association. Truck parking, environmental and speed limiter mandates are in the spotlight, and we’ll dig into the practicality—or lack thereof—of fully transitioning to electric trucks given current hurdles. Offering both a personal and professional take, I promise a discussion that's as thought-provoking as it is relevant to drivers on the ground.
Switching gears, I shine a spotlight on K&B Transportation’s enticing new pay and home time options, a potential game-changer for anyone looking to strike a better work-life balance. As I contemplate semi-retirement, these options pique my interest, fitting snugly into the broader conversation about Social Security income restrictions at age 62. Throw in a skeptical view on job fairs, backed by my own Army memories, and a survey spotlight from Trucker News on truck maintenance, and there's plenty to chew over. Rounding it all off with a nostalgic nod to "Smokey and the Bandit," I dive into Burt Reynolds' and Sally Field's captivating relationship, exploring the highs, the admiration, and the inevitable regrets. Join me for a ride through the latest industry updates and some personal musings.
Buzzsprout
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Email me anytime with news, suggestions, and stories at [email protected]. God bless, be safe, and keep it between the lines drivers.

Reviving Truck Stops: Celebrating Judy Love, Trucking Adventures, and Safety on the Road

Rollin' 18 Podcast

11/15/24 • 20 min

What if the golden days of truck stops as vibrant community hubs could return, offering more than just a quick meal and a place to refuel? Join us as we explore this intriguing possibility while celebrating the life and legacy of Judy Love, the co-founder of Love's Travel Stops, whose commitment to quality and community shines brightly in the trucking world. Reflecting on warm memories from the road, we honor Judy's contributions and discuss the potential for a revival of truck stops as welcoming spaces, advocating for healthier meal options and a renewed sense of camaraderie among drivers.
Taking inspiration from a classic 1977 movie, we dive into the exhilarating world of long-haul trucking adventures, filled with challenges and clever tactics to outwit law enforcement. We also turn our focus to safety on the road, sharing essential strategies for truckers to protect themselves and others while maintaining efficiency. From mastering the art of avoiding blind spots to the importance of pre-checks and planning deliveries, these invaluable tips are designed to enhance safety and ensure successful journeys for all who share the road.

Buzzsprout
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Email me anytime with news, suggestions, and stories at [email protected]. God bless, be safe, and keep it between the lines drivers.

Driving Toward Fairness: Cracking Down on Predatory Towing and Championing Truckers' Rights

Rollin' 18 Podcast

04/24/24 • 16 min

Imagine the open road as a safer place for truckers, free from the fear of predatory towing. That's the future I envision, and in today's conversation, we're bringing that vision one step closer to reality. We're celebrating a legislative win in Mississippi that's setting a precedent for the nation, cracking down on unscrupulous towing practices that target commercial drivers. As we reveal the nitty-gritty of the new bill, you'll learn how it's empowering truckers with regulated fees and a committee dedicated to fair towing oversight. But the fight doesn't end at the Mississippi border; I'm calling on you, our trucking family, to band together, share stories from your own states, and keep the wheels of justice turning for truckers everywhere.
Step into the cab as we shift gears to tackle another industry challenge—fraudulent activities that threaten the integrity of our roads. With the latest on Mexico-domiciled carriers and rampant documentation issues, we dissect the risks and underline the importance of vigilance. From proper CDL licensing to upholding the honor of the trucking tradition, we explore how each of us can contribute to a legacy of respect on the highways. And as we gear up for our special feature on the dynamic women of trucking, remember: this isn't just a podcast, it's a mission to merge the noble spirit of our forebearers with the evolving landscape of modern trucking. Join me, Walter Gallin, as we drive forward with pride and purpose on the Roland 18 Podcast.
BuzzSprout
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Email me anytime with news, suggestions, and stories at [email protected]. God bless, be safe, and keep it between the lines drivers.

Challenging the Status Quo: Driver Loyalty, Female Representation, and the Fight for Safer Truck Parking

Rollin' 18 Podcast

10/22/24 • 20 min

Can a lack of loyalty among truck drivers be the real reason companies continue to undervalue us? Join me, Walter Gatlin, on the Rolling 18 Podcast as I navigate through the turbulent waters of the trucking industry, revealing the stark disconnect between drivers and the corporations that employ us. With frustration mounting over poor compensation, detention delays, and a glaring absence of communication, we face an uphill battle. I share a personal story about a friend who left a trucking job due to inadequate pay, epitomizing the broader issue plaguing our industry. While truck parking and the economic landscape are shared concerns, it's time we unite to demand the respect and conditions we so desperately need.
Parked on the side of a highway because there's nowhere else to go—is this the future for truck drivers? Along Interstate 80 in Iowa, the shortage of truck parking reaches critical levels, forcing drivers into unsafe conditions. I argue that while there are enough CDL holders, the persistent lack of incentives and unbearable working conditions are driving many out of the industry. And what about the decline of women in trucking? The industry's failure to support female drivers is pushing them away, too. This episode underscores the urgent need to address these issues, improve working conditions, and ensure safety and efficiency for drivers on the road.
Buzzsprout
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Email me anytime with news, suggestions, and stories at [email protected]. God bless, be safe, and keep it between the lines drivers.

Mysteries on the Mile: Reflecting on a Trucker's Unsolved Demise and Navigating the Future of Emissions

Rollin' 18 Podcast

04/29/24 • 12 min

When the open road turns into an unsolved puzzle, it weighs heavy on our hearts, and today's Rollin' 18 episode is no exception. We first address the enigma wrapped in sorrow—the case of David Schultz, a fellow trucker whose recent and mysterious passing leaves a void in the fabric of our close-knit community. Then, shifting gears with a heavy heart, I'll recount an unsettling episode of road rage from Louisiana to serve as a sobering reminder of the volatility that can spark from the simplest of things—an unnecessary horn blast, a thoughtless lane change.
Amidst the personal tales and industry tribulations, we also tackle the lofty proposals coming from the White House, scrutinizing the $1.5 billion dream of a zero emissions freight sector. It's a discussion that cuts deep into the heart of what it means to be a trucker today, balancing the rigors of the road with the daunting shadows of tomorrow's environmental expectations. Wrapping up, I send out a truckload of gratitude to you, our dedicated listeners. Your commitment fuels my drive to bring you the stories, advice, and camaraderie that form the bedrock of our Rollin' 18 community, with fresh episodes to accompany you on your journeys every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. Keep your eyes on the horizon and your spirits high, truckers. We're in this together.
BuzzSprout
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Email me anytime with news, suggestions, and stories at [email protected]. God bless, be safe, and keep it between the lines drivers.

Truck Inspections Uncovered: Safety Blitz Results, CDL Compliance Tips, and Trucker Humor

Rollin' 18 Podcast

11/19/24 • 19 min

Ever wondered why so many trucks are being pulled off the road during inspections? On the Rolling 18 Podcast, I, Walter Gatlin, unravel the startling results from a recent safety blitz in Louisville, Texas, where a shocking 43% of vehicles were deemed unfit for the highway. With my four decades of road experience, I offer vital tips on rigorous pre-trip and post-trip checks, underscoring the necessity of staying vigilant as similar inspections ramp up across the nation. This episode is a must-listen for anyone serious about road safety and compliance, emphasizing that these efforts are about protecting everyone, not just cracking down on truckers.
Switching gears to keep things light, I bring updates on CDL compliance, stressing the importance of staying informed about potential suspensions for infractions like drug or alcohol violations. It's crucial to know what the FMCSA reports, and how it might impact your career. To add a touch of humor, I share a chuckle from a classic scene in the 2015 movie "Vacation," where a CB radio exchange lightens the mood. As always, I'm grateful for your support and excited to announce our plans to move to Rumble for an even better experience. Sign off with my signature phrase, while reminding everyone to keep it safe out there.
Buzzsprout
www.rollin18podcast.com

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Email me anytime with news, suggestions, and stories at [email protected]. God bless, be safe, and keep it between the lines drivers.

Harnessing AI in Trucking: Enhancing Road Safety, Driver Support, and Fleet Efficiency

Rollin' 18 Podcast

07/10/24 • 15 min

Ever wondered how artificial intelligence is reshaping the trucking industry? Join me, Walter Gatlin, on this episode of Rollin' 18 Podcast, where we promise you'll discover how AI is revolutionizing road safety, driver support, and efficiency in the face of modern-day pressures. As the backbone of America's supply chain faces increased demands from dispatchers and electronic logging devices, we highlight the importance of drivers maintaining control as the true captains of their ships, making responsible decisions for their safety and the safety of others on the road.
Dive deeper into how AI is being practically implemented within the industry, from driver and customer support to freight tracking and monitoring driver alertness. We weigh the benefits and challenges of AI adoption, emphasizing how automation can help drivers focus on driving by managing ancillary tasks. Plus, we discuss the evolving landscape of technology pilots that make it easier for fleets to test and deploy new innovations. Don't miss our crucial safety recall update for certain Peterbilt and Kenworth trucks due to a serious steering issue—your safety depends on it. Tune in for a comprehensive discussion blending safety, technology, and critical industry updates to keep you informed and prepared.
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How in-cab AI is transforming the trucking industry.
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Email me anytime with news, suggestions, and stories at [email protected]. God bless, be safe, and keep it between the lines drivers.

Shifting Gears for Safety: The Urgent Call to Reduce Trucking Perils and Foster Unity on the Highways

Rollin' 18 Podcast

04/22/24 • 13 min

Ever found yourself holding your breath as a massive truck merges onto the highway? That heart-racing moment is a stark reminder of the perils that come with sharing the road with these giants. Today, we confront the alarming rise in truck-related fatalities, as reported by the NHTSA for 2022. Despite an overall dip in traffic deaths, crashes involving large trucks tell a different, more troubling story. We'll unravel the often-overlooked dangers of blind spots and share a riveting account of how a teen educational program is opening eyes to the unseen risks. Tackling the contentious issue of electronic logging devices, I'll respond to your concerns, dissecting how these gadgets are shaking up the trucking world.
The road can be a lonely place for truckers, and the quest for a safe spot to catch some z's is one of the many battles they face. This episode isn't just about the problems, though; it's a call to arms for change. I'm rolling up my sleeves and stepping into the legislative arena, joining forces with Iowa lawmakers to champion better sleeping conditions for our road warriors. But it's not all about the zzz's – it's about the camaraderie, too. I'll be laying out my vision for a more united front within the trucking industry, where a handshake means something, and every mile is a shared journey. So, tune in for this heartfelt plea for safety and solidarity as we traverse the highways and byways of trucking life.
BuzzSprout
www.rollin18podcast.com

Teens learning about Big Truck blind spots.
The number of truck-related crash deaths increased in 2022, says NHTSA.

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Email me anytime with news, suggestions, and stories at [email protected]. God bless, be safe, and keep it between the lines drivers.

Steering Through the Storm: Navigating the Great Freight Recession in Trucking

Rollin' 18 Podcast

04/17/24 • 14 min

Ever hit the open road only to find yourself smack in the middle of an economic downturn? Welcome aboard, fellow road warriors. I'm Walter Gatlin, and I've weathered my share of storms in forty years of trucking. In a landscape where every mile counts, we're taking a hard look at the so-called Great Freight Recession, dissecting the trials and patterns of our current industry conundrum. With an ear to the ground and a hand on the gearshift, we're exploring the frustration of long wait times at pick-up and drop-off points, diving into how company drivers and independent spirits alike are steering through the financial squall of sinking freight rates and climbing fuel costs.
No CB radio squawk here; just solid, experienced-based wisdom on the ebbs and flows of the freight market. I've got my finger on the pulse of the Outbound Tender Rejection Index, decoding what this could mean for our collective road ahead. Listen in as we discuss the nitty-gritty details of our industry's current state, while keeping an optimistic eye on what's over the next horizon. Whether you're a greenhorn or an old hand at the trucking game, this episode is packed with the insights you need to navigate these challenging times with grit and grace. So, keep your logbook close and your mind open—it's time to roll out with knowledge as our payload.
BuzzSprout
www.rollin18podcast.com

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Email me anytime with news, suggestions, and stories at [email protected]. God bless, be safe, and keep it between the lines drivers.

Halted NYC Congestion Pricing Plan, Show Trucks, and The Uneducated On Social Media.

Rollin' 18 Podcast

06/10/24 • 15 min

Can congested city streets and tolls cripple the trucking industry, or is there more to the story? Join me, Walter Gatlin, on the Rollin' 18 Podcast as we break down New York Governor Kathy Hochul's surprising decision to indefinitely halt the NYC congestion pricing plan. We'll uncover the factors at play, from the pressures exerted by the Trucking Association of New York to the economic aftershocks of the COVID-19 pandemic. Discover the financial impact these tolls could have had on truckers and motorists alike and delve into the legal battles questioning the constitutionality of such measures. This episode is a must-listen for truckers navigating the economic realities of operating in high-tax states like New York and California.
Moving on to logistics, let's discuss a less glamorous but equally vital topic: load securing. The episode underscores the shared responsibility between manufacturers and truck drivers to ensure that loads are tightly packed and stable. Improperly secured cargo isn’t just a nuisance; it’s a safety hazard. I've got tips on how to manage these challenges effectively, and as a bonus, advice on maintaining professionalism online. Avoiding unproductive arguments is key to staying focused on the road. This episode is packed with insights that are crucial for a successful and safe trucking career. Tune in for practical tips and industry updates that every trucker needs to hear.
BuzzSprout
www.rollin18podcast.com