This week on the Oakley Podcast, host Jeremy Kellett chats with Jared Smith, one of our new owner/operators at Oakley. Jared talks about his first month at Oakley Trucking, sharing his journey from company driver to independent contractor. He discusses the challenges of making the leap, the importance of family and faith, and the support he’s received from Oakley’s team. The conversation covers orientation, adapting to new technology, financial planning, and the value of a strong support system both at home and on the road. Key takeaways include the importance of taking risks, building a solid foundation for your family, the benefits of joining a company that values its drivers and fosters a supportive community, and so much more.

This week on the Oakley Podcast, host Jeremy Kellett brings in Corey Huey, Kent Childers, and Dustin Eagle from the Oakley recruiting department as the group talks about the company’s approach to recruiting and retaining top owner-operators. They cover Oakley’s unique benefits—including pay for all miles, weekly settlements, anniversary and referral bonuses, fuel and insurance discounts, and no trailer rental fees—while emphasizing the importance of transparency, relationship-building, and setting clear expectations with recruits. Listeners gain insight into the daily challenges recruiters face, the company’s supportive culture, how Oakley’s commitment to its drivers sets it apart in the trucking industry, and so much more.

This week on the Oakley Podcast, host Jeremy Kellett chats with Myers Buck & Jack Pinkerton, some of our dispatchers at Oakley Trucking. Myers and Jack share their journeys from shop work to dispatching, discussing the day-to-day challenges of managing drivers and loads, as well as the importance of communication, flexibility, and teamwork in the trucking industry. Listeners will gain insights into the human side of dispatching, the value of building strong relationships with drivers, and the critical role dispatchers play in ensuring both company and driver success. Key takeaways include the need for adaptability, clear communication, and understanding the unique challenges faced by both dispatchers and drivers. Don’t miss this inside look at how dispatchers keep trucks on the road.

This week on the Oakley Podcast, Jeremy welcomes Gerald Brown, a seasoned truck driver with 30 years of experience, who shares his remarkable journey from real estate to trucking. Gerald is an owner/operator here at Oakley and candidly discusses his career challenges, including a failed attempt at managing multiple trucks, and his transitions through various trucking jobs, ultimately finding stability with Oakley Trucking. He highlights the importance of a supportive spouse, effective truck maintenance, and adaptability in the trucking industry, currently transitioning from hopper to pneumatic tank hauling. Gerald also offers insights into the daily challenges of trucking, such as parking difficulties, traffic congestion, and the impact of technology like e-logs. The episode provides a personal and inspiring narrative about perseverance, learning from failures, and finding success as an owner-operator, with Gerald emphasizing that having a strong support system and being willing to embrace new challenges are key to thriving in the trucking profession. You won’t want to miss this!

This week on the Oakley Podcast, Megan Cummings and Dustin Eagle bring you another great episode as they welcome Fred & Jerome Levy. Fred is an Owner/Operator here at Oakley, and his son Jerome is already planning his trucking career. Fred, who started driving with Pepsi and transitioned to over-the-road trucking, discusses his career path and joining Oakley Trucking. Jerome, already knowledgeable in the industry, demonstrates an intense interest in trucking, using American Truck Simulator and already planning to start his own company in the future. The episode explores changes in the trucking industry, the importance of family values, understanding of trucking regulations, and truck models. Key takeaways include the evolving nature of trucking, the significance of mentorship even from parent to child, the potential for young, passionate individuals to innovate in the transportation industry, and so much more.

This week on the Oakley Podcast, host Jeremy Kellett chats with Carlton & Leigh Wing, the Hosts & Founders of Wing Media Group and creators of the Arkansas Great Outdoors show. During the episode, Carlton & Leigh share their journey from broadcasting to media entrepreneurship. Leigh also shares her personal ties to trucking in the family and the appreciation everyone should have for truckers and their importance in keeping the country running. The Wings highlight Arkansas's incredible natural resources, emphasizing the state's diverse outdoor opportunities and the importance of getting people, especially youth, engaged with nature. Carlton also reveals his recent decision to step back from politics after serving in the House of Representatives for 10 years. Throughout the conversation, they stress the therapeutic benefits of outdoor experiences and the joy of discovering new activities like fishing, hiking, and exploring state parks. Don’t miss it!

This week on the Oakley Podcast, host Jeremy Kellett welcomes Brian Carpenter, one of our owner/operators at Oakley Trucking. During the episode, Brian, a 30-year veteran truck driver, shares his rich and diverse background. A former Army artillery soldier who transitioned from seminary school to trucking, Brian discusses the challenges of trucking, including navigating traffic and hauling complex loads like bauxite dirt, while emphasizing the importance of patience and safety. Beyond driving, Brian reveals his passions: riding his Harley, volunteering at a music theater, supporting a Christian country radio station, and maintaining a positive TikTok presence. With a pilot's license and a love for old country music, Brian represents the multifaceted nature of professional truck drivers - dedicated professionals who are much more than just drivers. The episode highlights the personal stories, challenges, and diverse interests that define modern trucking professionals, offering listeners a nuanced and inspiring view of life on the road. Don’t miss it!

This week on the Oakley Podcast, host Jeremy Kellett chats with Jason Webb & Bradley Simpson, Operations Managers at Oakley Trucking. During the conversation, the group provides an insider's view of managing bulk freight across pneumatic and end dump divisions. They discuss the challenges of coordinating over 900 owner operators, emphasizing the critical importance of communication, customer service, and building strong relationships. With over 1,000 customers and opportunities for growth, the podcast highlights how Oakley's success stems from reliable drivers, strategic operations, and a commitment to solving problems quickly. The conversation also reveals the complex world of trucking, where technology, customer expectations, and operational efficiency intersect to create a thriving business. Don’t miss this episode!

This week on the Oakley Podcast, Jeremy Kellett and Megan Cummings discuss important updates for truck drivers, including new medical exam submission requirements that mandate physicals be uploaded to the national registry within 24 hours. They highlight Oakley Trucking's significant investments, including a new 18,000-square-foot trailer shop set to open in July with improved maintenance facilities and two newly purchased Kenworth rental trucks designed to help owner-operators continue working when their personal trucks are down. The podcast provides practical advice for drivers, emphasizing the importance of proactively managing medical certifications and maintaining equipment. Key takeaways include the need for drivers to be their own advocates, the benefits of the new rental truck program, Oakley's commitment to supporting their owner-operators through innovative solutions, and more.

This week on the Oakley Podcast, host Jeremy Kellet welcomes Tony Justice, a country music musician and over-the-road truck driver. Tony shares his journey, detailing his family's trucking background and his dual career in music. He discusses his wife's battle with breast cancer, which inspired the "Cars and Guitars for Truck Show" to raise cancer awareness. The conversation also explores Tony's songwriting process, his band's dynamics, and the significance of community support. The conversation also underscores a strong connection to the trucking community through Tony’s music and performances at truck shows across the country. You won’t want to miss it.

This week on the Oakley Podcast, host Jeremy Kellett welcomes Alex Bauta, a Cuban-American owner-operator at Oakley with a military background, who shares his journey from military service to trucking. Alex discusses his methodical approach to becoming an owner operator, emphasizing the importance of treating trucking as a business. He provides detailed insights into maximizing fuel efficiency by maintaining a consistent 62 mph speed, which reduces mental fatigue and improves miles per gallon. Key takeaways include his strategic truck selection, financial planning, the value of working with a supportive company like Oakley Trucking, and so much more. You won’t want to miss this great conversation!

During this week’s episode of the Oakley Podcast, Jeremy welcomes Chris Nye, one of our owner/operators at Oakley. The episode was recorded live at the Mid-America Truck Show in Louisville, Kentucky, and Chris brings his son, Carter, on the show as well. The conversation explores the Nye family's multi-generational trucking history, with Chris sharing his journey from starting at 18 to now working with Oakley Trucking. Key topics include the evolution of trucking technology, the importance of family support, and the challenges of being an independent contractor. Carter provides insights into his interest in trucks and working in the family business. The podcast highlights the strong family tradition in trucking and Oakley's commitment to supporting owner-operators. Listeners will gain a personal perspective on the trucking lifestyle, the value of passing down skills through generations, the benefits of working with a supportive trucking company, and so much more.

During this week’s episode of the Oakley Podcast, Jeremy and Megan are joined by Jimmy Evans, one of our owner-operators at Oakley and YouTube sensation from JimmysRoadLyfe. Jimmy shares his journey from the Marines to becoming a successful owner-operator at Oakley Trucking. He discusses his YouTube channel, JimmysRoadLyfe, which aims to educate and help other truckers, and emphasizes the importance of health and fitness for drivers. Key takeaways include the value of discipline learned in the military, the benefits of becoming an owner-operator, and the critical need for truck drivers to prioritize their physical well-being. Jimmy offers practical advice on truck purchasing, maintaining a healthy lifestyle on the road, and the potential of creating content to help and inspire others in the trucking industry.

This week on the Oakley Podcast, host Jeremy Kellett welcomes Bryan “Bossman” Martin, Owner of 4 State Trucks/Chrome Shop Mafia in Joplin, Missouri. During the episode, Bryan shares his journey from a mechanic to a leader in the custom truck industry, detailing the evolution of his business from a small parts store to a renowned custom truck shop. He discusses the impact of the "Trick My Truck" TV show on his business and the growth of his truck show. The episode highlights the sense of community in trucking, Bryan's future plans for 4 State Trucks and Chrome Shop Mafia, and so much more.

During this week’s episode of the Oakley Podcast, host Jeremy Kellett is joined by Bruce Mallinson, Owner of Pittsburgh Power, live from the Mid-America Truck Show in Louisville, Kentucky. In this conversation, Bruce shares his lifelong passion for engines, recounting childhood experiences that ignited his love for horsepower and torque. He emphasizes the importance of owner-operators in the trucking industry and discusses the benefits of Pittsburgh Power’s Max Mileage Fuel Born Catalyst. The conversation also touches on the challenges of retirement for truckers, the camaraderie among drivers, the critical role of trucking in society, the resilience of the trucking community, and so much more.

During this week’s episode of the Oakley Podcast, host Jeremy Kellett is joined by Courtney George, Director of Transportation and Industry Relations at Wreaths Across America, live from the Mid-America Truck Show in Louisville, Kentucky. In this powerful conversation, Courtney shares the inspiring mission of honoring veterans by placing wreaths on military graves nationwide. The program has grown from 5,000 wreaths in 1992 to over 3.1 million wreaths at nearly 5,000 locations, highlighting the trucking industry's crucial role in supporting this meaningful tribute to fallen heroes. Listeners will learn about the program's growth, emotional impact, and how individuals can contribute to remembering and respecting those who have served. You won’t want to miss this great conversation.

During this week’s episode of the Oakley Podcast, host Jeremy Kellett is joined by Joe Hoovestol, General Manager at Lone Mountain Truck Leasing. In this conversation, Jeremy and Joe look at a transparent approach to truck leasing for independent owner-operators. Joe explains their unique model that helps drivers acquire trucks without hidden fees, highlighting their success in helping nearly 12,000 operators complete truck payments. The conversation also explores current trucking market challenges, including frustrating after-treatment systems, volatile truck prices, and the complexities of entering the trucking industry. Key takeaways include the importance of understanding market conditions, building long-term relationships, and choosing a leasing partner that prioritizes the owner-operator's success. Don’t miss it!

During this week’s episode of the Oakley Podcast, host Jeremy Kellett is joined by Lewie Pugh, Executive Vice President of Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association (OOIDA) live from the Mid-America Truck Show in Louisville, Kentucky. In this conversation, Lewie gives a powerful critique of the trucking industry, highlighting critical challenges in driver training, retention, and technological adaptation. Discussing legislative insights and practical advice, Lewie emphasizes the need to invest in drivers, find specialized niches, and prioritize quality over quantity. The conversation also exposes the industry's systemic issues while offering hope through advocacy, continuous learning, and supporting organizations like OOIDA that fight for truckers' rights. Listeners will gain valuable insights into the complex world of trucking, understanding that success comes from returning to basics, valuing experienced drivers, actively engaging in industry improvements, and more.

This week on the Oakley Podcast, host Jeremy Kellett sits down with Brent Poulsen, one of our long-time owner/operators at Oakley Trucking who is retiring. Brent shares his 35-year journey in trucking, including his Navy background, memorable experiences, and plans to move to the Philippines. He reflects on industry changes, the camaraderie among drivers, and his hobbies like building computers and hydroponic gardening. The episode underscores the importance of community within Oakley Trucking and Brent's positive impact on those around him. Don’t miss this one last ride with Oakley for Brent on this episode.

This week on the Oakley Podcast, host Jeremy Kellett welcomes Matt Lee, Jeremy May, and Colin Harrison from Ramsey MediaWorks out of Joplin, Missouri. The group discusses the evolution of marketing in the trucking industry as they explore the shift from traditional print advertising to digital strategies, emphasizing the importance of understanding and targeting specific driver demographics. The conversation highlights the advantages of digital advertising, such as real-time adaptability and performance tracking, and the role of social media in engaging potential recruits. The episode underscores the need for transparency and authenticity in marketing to build trust and attract the right talent as well as gives actionable advice to drivers about what to look for in a trucking company and how to do their homework to get to where they want to be.