Podcasts about Denim

We're back for the last episode of this week with our returning guest, Cameron Pechia of Valley Trucking Insurance! Cam shares his insights on the current market downturn, the rising business failures leading to significant client losses, his recommended insurance coverage for freight brokers, legal challenges for brokers, Valley's educational content expansion, the importance of standard operating procedures, and key red flags in selecting carriers!   About Cameron Pechia Cameron is the founder of Valley Trucking Insurance, a leading Trucking Insurance Agency based in Spokane, Washington. With a deep passion for the trucking industry and a commitment to excellence, Cameron has become a trusted figure in the field. Cameron also is the host of Get A Load Of This Trucking Podcast and brings a ton of value to the Trucking Industry. Cameron is also a dedicated husband and father to his two beautiful girls…His daughters are his “WHY” and what makes him get up in the morning and try to win each and every day.  At Valley Trucking Insurance, Cameron oversees the provision of specialized insurance solutions tailored to the unique needs of trucking companies. The agency serves a diverse clientele, including local trucking companies, long-haul trucking companies, aggregate haulers, tow truck companies, hot shots, freight brokers, and other related risks. Cameron ensures that clients receive the highest level of customer service and comprehensive coverage through the agency's proven process known as the "VTI Difference." Under Cameron's leadership, Valley Trucking Insurance has achieved significant growth and expansion across the county. The agency has built strong partnerships with renowned insurance providers such as Great West Casualty Company, Lancer Insurance Company, Progressive Insurance, Berkshire, and Canal. Additionally, Cameron also focuses on placing fleet-sized trucking companies into captive insurance programs, enhancing their risk management and financial stability. Looking ahead, Cameron is focused on an ambitious goal of expanding the agency's reach by looking to help over 10,000 Trucking Companies and Freight Brokerage operations within the next seven years. Adhering to the principles outlined in the book Traction by Geno Wickman, he is dedicated to creating world-class onboarding and customer service experience for his trucking clients. This initiative aims to foster a culture of excellence and continuous improvement, ensuring Valley Trucking Insurance remains at the forefront of the industry.   Connect with Cameron Website: https://www.valleytruckinginsurance.com/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cameron-pechia-49903072/  Email: Cameron@alllinesinsure.com  

Sucharita Kodali reacts to Levi (LEVI) earnings and the return of denim as a trend. “The question about tariffs has been in the retail ecosystem for ten years now,” Sucharita says, and so Levi has taken steps to diversify its production already. She also thinks consumers remain strong and spending, benefitting the company – and social media influencers are going global, making fashion trends broader. However, because of its competitive market, she doesn't think it can pass through price increases to consumers.======== Schwab Network ========Empowering every investor and trader, every market day. Subscribe to the Market Minute newsletter - https://schwabnetwork.com/subscribeDownload the iOS app - https://apps.apple.com/us/app/schwab-...Download the Amazon Fire Tv App - https://www.amazon.com/TD-Ameritrade-...Watch on Sling - https://watch.sling.com/1/asset/19192...Watch on Vizio - https://www.vizio.com/en/watchfreeplu...Watch on DistroTV - https://www.distro.tv/live/schwab-net...Follow us on X – / schwabnetwork Follow us on Facebook – / schwabnetwork Follow us on LinkedIn - / schwab-network About Schwab Network - https://schwabnetwork.com/about

Today, you'll hear more market data, analysis, and valuable insights on what you should know about the transportation industry, especially on the current FMCSA regulation issues, broker transparency rulemaking, dispatch service regulation, and FMCSA enforcement!  

Today, Drivewyze's Brenda Colombus joins the show to discuss safety and compliance in the trucking business! Brenda explains the significance of Drivewyze in reducing crashes and its financial impact, the type of technology this platform leverages, and more of its special functions, as well as its Mission Zero goal of achieving zero crashes and fatalities!   About Brenda Colombus Brenda is a seasoned leader with extensive experience in guiding multi-disciplinary teams through complex technical development and implementation projects. She brings extensive expertise in delivering cutting-edge SaaS and hardware-enabled SaaS solutions across diverse sectors, including Transportation, Oil & Gas, and Government. Brenda is a passionate advocate for continuous learning. She is a Product Manager at Drivewyze https://drivewyze.com/.  

Hear more about the technology and system integration side of freight by joining today's guest, Tapan Chaudhari of Bubba AI, discussing AI tools for truck drivers! Tapan shares his extensive background in the transportation industry, the advancement in technology, Bubba AI's goal to empower owner-operators, its special features and automated functions, and leveraging AI for small businesses' operational efficiency!    About Tapan Chaudhari Tapan is the Founder and CEO of Bubba AI (Hey Bubba), an AI Agent built for Owner-Operators. He is a serial entrepreneur in the transportation tech space, passionate about empowering owner-operators. Previously, founded TruckX, a fleet management platform serving thousands of small fleets and owner-operators. Now, focused on leveraging AI to revolutionize dispatching and back-office operations for independent truckers.   Connect with Tapan Website: https://bubba.ai/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ctapan/ / https://www.linkedin.com/company/hey-bubba-ai/  

In this episode of The Retail Pilot, we sit down with Molly Howard, cofounder and CEO of La Ligne, the beloved fashion brand known for its effortless aesthetic, powerful storytelling, and slow burn sustainable success. Molly shares her fascinating path from private equity and investment banking at Credit Suisse to working at Rag & Bone and ultimately launching La Ligne with former Vogue editors Meredith Melling and Valerie Macaulay.You'll hear how her finance background uniquely shaped the brand's business model, why La Ligne prioritized profitability over hype, and how her cofounder chemistry laid the foundation for trust and longevity. Molly also opens up about navigating tariffs, scaling e-commerce thoughtfully, and the turning point that made her realize they needed to “drop product like a magazine” to keep customers returning weekly.Whether you're a founder, fashion lover, or just obsessed with good retail strategy, this is a must-listen conversation filled with lessons in leadership, resilience, and intuition.Show Notes:• Molly's unexpected journey from Credit Suisse to the fashion industry• The early days at Rag & Bone and the deal that flipped her role from banker to brand-side strategist• How a boat ride in Hawaii turned into a cofounder pitch• The vision behind La Ligne's name and how they built a brand rooted in non-fussy French minimalism• Why La Ligne raised under $4 million and how they've remained profitable ever since• The benefit of launching without institutional investors• Dividing responsibilities among three cofounders and why “three is easier than two”• Building a direct-to-consumer first model with mindful wholesale partnerships like Net-a-Porter and Shopbop• The challenges and creativity that came from growing without an early e-commerce hire• Influencer marketing, ShopMy, and keeping authenticity at the center• The La Drop strategy and why weekly product releases became key to customer loyalty• Facing down supply chain shocks and rising tariffs while keeping the brand nimble• The joy of physical retail and Molly's passion for designing store spaces• Denim, menswear, and collaborations as La Ligne's next frontiers• Rapid fire: Molly's favorite brands, best advice received, go-to pieces, and the Tupac class that shaped her thinkingLike what you hear?Follow The Retail Pilot and leave us a review. Share this episode with a friend who loves fashion or dreams of launching their own brand. You can also tag us on Instagram with your takeaways—we'd love to hear what inspired you.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Today's live show highlights some industry trends that you should be aware of, the significance of adopting a daily action-focused approach for both business and personal development, and prioritizing progress over perfection in the freight business! Listen and don't miss out on this episode!   Resources / References https://www.ttnews.com/articles/atri-trucking-costs-2025 https://www.ttnews.com/articles/ups-voluntary-buyouts-union https://www.fleetowner.com/news/article/55301341/congress-passes-trumps-one-big-beautiful-bill  

Today's episode is a conversation about America's freedom and independence, featuring Robert Bain, the Strongest Man in Logistics, as he reflects on the risks taken by the Founding Fathers, comparable to modern military challenges! Robert highlights the principle of freedom of speech, having a business philosophy, GLCS' current growth and priorities, his powerlifting career, charitable focus, and the importance of resilience and building a robust content strategy for educational purposes!   About Robert Bain Robert Bain, more commonly known as "Bain", has been involved with the transportation and logistics industry for nearly 2 decades. He has worked in a variety of operations and sales roles, from seat level all the way to VP of operations. He has worked for Amazing organizations such as CRST, UberFreight, Shipwell, Quad, and currently consults with the team at GLCS. He resides in the Chicagoland area with his wife Nikki, 4 children and granddaughter. When not engaged with family, clients, or in thought leadership within the sector via public appearances, interviews, and podcasts, Bain is typically in the gym maintaining his title of "The Strongest Man in Logistics". He boasts personal bests in competition of a 1063 lb Squat, 610 lb bench, 705 lb deadlift, and 2300 lb total.   Connect with Robert Website: https://www.globallcs.com/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robert-bain-435abb2b/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bain316/?hl=en  Email: rbain@glcs.net  

Today, Melanie Padron of IT ArchiTeks discusses the transportation industry's high risk for cyber attacks due to reliance on technology, with hackers exploiting urgency around high-value freight! Melanie shares how cybercriminals often target small businesses, cyber-enabled cargo theft, red flags for potential cyber threats, how users must manage their own data security, and the urgent need for regular training, a culture encouraging employees to report suspicious activities, multilayered security measures, and the importance of collaboration within the industry!   About Melanie Padron Melanie Padron is a risk management expert and cybersecurity speaker who has made it her mission to protect trucking companies from cyber threats. She's been right there in the trenches when ransomware attacks hit, helping pick up the pieces after systems are encrypted and ransom demands arrive. After spending over 20 years in the insurance industry helping businesses recover from disasters, Melanie has shifted her focus to something she's even more passionate about: stopping those disasters from happening in the first place through proactive cybersecurity. Her connection to trucking is personal. Growing up working in her family's convenience stores, she watched the steady stream of trucks that kept their gas tanks filled and shelves stocked. Her uncle and aunt were owner-operators who crossed the country delivering freight, giving her firsthand insight into the dedication and sacrifice required to build a trucking business. Working with veteran-owned IT Architeks, Melanie helps trucking leaders secure their fleets and leverage AI to become more efficient and profitable. Her approach is simple: when trucking companies truly understand their risk, real protection begins. One company at a time, she's working to build cyber resilience in the trucking industry.   Connect with Melanie Website: https://www.itarchiteks.com/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melanie-padron/  

In this episode, let's talk about the latest trends in the transportation industry and timely freight operations to accommodate peak holiday demands! Stay tuned to learn more from our trusted sources of information, the importance of verifying holiday hours with shippers and receivers, today's industry challenges, the critical role of shifting towards digitization, and focusing on internal improvements!    Resources / References https://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/americas/us-politics/sean-duffy-trump-truck-speed-rules-highways-b2779731.html https://www.ttnews.com/articles/duffy-dot-truck-parking-plan https://www.ttnews.com/articles/werner-verdict-reversal  

We're excited to feature two amazing guests for this week's first episode, Paul Lang and PJ Zarskus of HMD Transport! Paul and PJ tell us something about the current market dynamics, what it takes for many carriers to maintain market share, the impact of emerging insurance integration with ELD devices, and what The Logistics War Room offers for its community members!   About Paul Lang and PJ Zarskus Paul is a seasoned logistics and supply chain leader with over 13 years of experience driving growth, operational excellence, and strategic procurement in the freight brokerage space. He currently serves as Director of Procurement at HMD Transport, the brokerage division of HMD Trucking. Paul is also the Co-Founder of The Logistics War Room, a private, results-driven community for brokers, carriers, shippers, and logistics professionals focused on collaboration, education, and elevating performance across the industry. He began his career at Command Transportation, which was later acquired by Echo Global Logistics in 2015, where he developed his expertise in carrier sales, network building, and operational leadership. Paul is passionate about building high-performing teams, developing sustainable carrier strategies, and delivering long-term value to customers and partners. With 13+ years in logistics, PJ Zarskus has built high-performance sales teams, scaled brokerages past $50M, and launched offshore ops that cut costs and boost output. As GM of HMD Transport, he drives growth through sales strategy, network design, and process execution. He's also the co-founder of The Logistics War Room, a private, execution-first community for brokers, carriers, and operators who actually move freight.   Connect with Paul and PJ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-lang-565b65176 / https://www.linkedin.com/in/pj-zarskus/  The Logistics War Room: https://www.skool.com/the-logistics-war-room-1319  Website: https://hmdtransport.com/  

Welcome to another live discussion, and don't miss out on this week's last episode for more real-world sales and entrepreneurship insights! Today, you'll learn why a disciplined daily structure is vital for personal success, investing in mindset development and networking, preparing for potential exhaustion when building sustainable businesses, and being resilient during early entrepreneurial stages!  

In this episode, Tristan Bordallo is back on the show to break down more action plans for growing a trucking business! Tristan shares what small carriers are falling in the current market condition, the crucial role of hiring qualified people for cash flow and business development, how to run a successful freight operation, the impact of customer satisfaction ratings on carrier reputations, and more that you shouldn't miss!   About Tristan Bordallo Tristan has been in the trucking business for 21 years, started in LTL brokerage Diversified Transportation and became a 1099 rep after 3 months (did it for 5 yrs), co-owned an agency for Covenant Transport for 10 years , and launched his own brokerage Fr8topia and asset-based carrier Iamfr8 (6 years ago). I'm still figuring it out!   Connect with Tristan Website: https://www.iamfr8.com/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tristan-bordallo-a57860162/  

Our friend Sean Smith from Denim is back on the show, and today, he shares tons of advice for freight brokers and other industry professionals about what shippers are looking for when choosing freight partners! Tune in to know shippers' sentiments in the current market condition, what brokers should prioritize to enhance service delivery and relationships, the importance of effective billing and clean back office processes, and why financial responsibility is critical to business success!   About Sean Smith Sean Smith, VP of Product at Denim, has spent 10 years building and scaling products in the financial services and logistics industries. While leading Product at Denim, he has pioneered new capabilities for the factoring space including risk automation and pricing.  Sean has also led work on our client dashboard, job management and collaboration that have revolutionized the process and workflow for broker clients looking to save time on back office operations. He excels at combining his passion for technology with the ability to drive impact on a balance sheet.   Connect with Sean Website: https://www.denim.com/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/smithseanp/  Twitter (X): https://x.com/smithseanp  

Get the latest equipment financing and industry updates from today's returning guest, James Currier of Finloc! James shares what Ontario is facing that affects freight volumes, the impact of frequent tariff announcements and geopolitical tensions, the overall market volatility, and the importance of preparing for cyclical economic changes!    About James Currier James Currier is the Chief Revenue Officer at Finloc USA, where James leads the sales team across the country in a relentless pursuit for increased market share in the equipment finance field. After starting his professional career as a Business Analyst in the healthcare field, James came to realize that his passions were best suited to dealing with people and organizations aiming for growth. After a two year contract was completed with Fraser & Interior Health Authorities in British Columbia, a career change ensued and James has not looked back since. Combining the analytical fundamentals learned in healthcare and a natural gravitation towards people and business development, James has thrived in a sales career since 2012, leading, managing, and training dozens of people over the past several years. Subsequent to the completion of a >$400MM acquisition at his previous company, James made the jump to Finloc where he was first tasked with hiring and redeveloping the Ontario, Canada market. James was then assigned to manage the US division for Finloc as a player/coach, originating new asset-based financing opportunities and finding, attracting, and training new talent. James has worked in an exceptionally diverse range of roles since the age of 15, starting as a minor hockey league referee. His openness to new experience has allowed James to experience positions as a head of high-profile security, high-adventure whitewater rafter guide, Corporal in the Canadian Armed Forces Infantry Reserve, business analyst, VIP/Private security operative, personal support worker, guitar teacher, and sales leader. As a well-versed hobbyist who enjoys learning and new experiences, James enjoys coaching/playing/watching hockey, swimming, guitar, hunting, fly fishing, boating/canoeing, cycling, hiking, woodworking, motorcycling, reading, DIY projects, and evening walks with his wife, 2 boys, and golden retriever.   Connect with James LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-currier-clfp-232b0842/?originalSubdomain=ca  Email: james.currier@finloc.com  

Today, our first guest for the week, Garrett Bowers of Bowers Trucking, explains the significance of face-to-face networking and its role in building relationships within the transportation industry! Garrett highlights how crucial it is to create a personal connection with potential clients, build systems for business development, prospect consistently, enhance transparency, and operate teams efficiently for scalability and profitability!   About Garrett Bowers Born and raised in Ponca City, Garrett is a proud alumni of PO-HI where he played football, wrestled, and was highly involved in 4H and FFA. Garrett earned a scholarship to attend Northeastern Oklahoma A&M College for livestock judging and his success there led to scholarship opportunities to join the Oklahoma State University judging team. At OSU, Garrett served as a Senator for the College of Agriculture. His livestock judging team members won several national contests including the coveted national collegiate championship in 2006. He graduated OSU with a bachelor's degree in May of 2007. Although Garrett grew up working alongside his father, Ranond, and grandfather, Glen (who was the founder of Bowers Trucking) – he was no stranger to entrepreneurial ventures. Before the age of 10, he had as many as 20 bottle-fed calves and even sold watermelon and corn in front of the truck yard alongside Highway 60. Later on, at age 16 he started his own custom hay business, which earned him the National FFA Degree recognition in 2004. When Garrett joined the family business after graduation in 2007, Bowers Trucking operated a dozen trucks within a 150-mile radius concentrated on end dump, aggregate, and construction material hauling. By 2010, Garrett diversified operations by redirecting focus to service the vast manufacturing industries located in Ponca City. By 2013, Bowers Trucking was operating in all 48 states and expanded into Canada and Mexico. Increased customer demand ultimately led to Garrett starting his own logistics company to help coordinate customer overflow. In 2016, Bowers Logistics was formed and the first agent was hired to meet the growing customer base with partner trucking companies looking for freight. By 2018, Bowers Trucking and Bowers Logistics became Department of Defense certified – the first trucking company based in Oklahoma to do so. Today, Bowers Trucking and Bowers Logistics employs 58 full-time employees. Together, the companies operate 50 trucks, and 108 trailers and service 5,000+ carrier partners while still retaining their core customer base from over a decade ago. Garrett met his wife Melissa in Athens, Georgia when the Oklahoma State Cowboys played their season opener against the University of Georgia. With some irresistible charm and a truckload of luck, Garrett convinced Melissa to relocate to Ponca City in 2009. Garrett and Melissa have been married for 13+ years, and they have a son, HB, who graduated PO-HI in  2021 and attended Oklahoma State University. Garrett coached HB's elementary year football teams and served on Osage County's Livestock Board, the FFA Booster Club, and the Quarterback Club. He is a graduate of Ponca City Leadership. He currently serves as seat # 3 commissioner for the City of Ponca City and has been an appointed trustee with the Ponca City Development Authority since 2018 and was chosen to serve two terms on U.S. Senator Inhofe's Service Academy Selection Committee.   Connect with Garrett Website: https://bowerstrucks.com/  Email: garrett@bowerstrucks.com  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/garrett-bowers-7a2b9186/  

Dive into our last guest this week, Ed Burns from Burns Logistics, discussing the latest trends in freight and the impact of tariffs and politics on the industry! Ed shares the importance of operational resilience and effective cost management in the current market downturn, a platform to improve contract freight opportunities for shippers and carriers, the current market instability and tariff uncertainty, and what it takes to be a successful entrepreneur in freight!   Resources / References https://www.ttnews.com/articles/trump-new-round-tariffs https://www.freightwaves.com/news/layoff-wave-hits-freight-sector-as-nearly-9000-jobs-slashed https://www.freightwaves.com/news/truck-safety-group-warns-of-political-interference-danger-at-dot   About Ed Burns Ed is the Chief Executive Optimist at Burns Logistics. He recently joined the family business to help widen and deepen their relationships with both shippers and carriers. He brings a background in marketing, which he uses to improve their company's digital presence. When not working, Ed enjoys going for walks, reading, and meeting new people.   Connect with Ed Website: https://trusygnal.com/ / https://burnslogistics.com/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/relationship-guy/  

Today, Velocitor Solution's Rudy Nemeth talks about the evolution of fleet technology from digitizing basic processes to integrated platforms that enhance safety and efficiency! Rudy highlights how utilizing AI in fleet management helps identify safety issues, existing data challenges in logistics companies, cash flow constraints faced by small businesses, and the benefits of technology advancements!   About Rudy Nemeth As the VP of Sales at Velocitor Solutions, Rudy has over 25 years of experience in new business development for mobile software solutions and managed mobile services. His expertise includes Enterprise Cross-Platform Mobile Apps, Mobile Back-End, and ERP Integration. He also manages a fleet management system that includes GPS tracking, telematics monitoring, FMCSA-compliant ELD system, driver score cards, and in-cab video. His vertical markets include Consumer Packaged Goods, Field Service, Transportation and Logistics, Manufacturing, Retail, and Field Sales. He's passionate about delivering innovative and effective mobile solutions to various industries and helping businesses optimize their operations and performance.   Connect with Rudy Website: https://velocitor.com/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rudynemeth/  

In this episode, you'll hear an analysis of what shippers look for when selecting freight providers, their sentiments and challenges, and how to build long-term relationships with them effectively. Tune in so you won't miss another discussion that will help you stand out as a freight broker! 2025 Shipper Pulse Report: https://shorturl.at/Eixz9  

Today, we're joined by incredible women in transportation, Lacey Olson and Amanda Haire - the co-founders of Transport Express! Despite coming from different industries, Lacey and Amanda share how they got into the freight business and continue to thrive, their challenges due to changing market conditions, and their focus on promoting a work-life balance, creating standard operating procedures, training manuals, and KPIs to enhance operational scalability!   About Lacey Olson and Amanda Haire Lacey Olson is the Co-owner of Transport Express, a Minnesota-based freight brokerage she acquired with her business partner, Amanda Haire, in 2021. She began her career in investment banking before taking a hiatus to raise her three boys. Today, she holds an MBA and co-owns a concrete and masonry company with her husband. Her experience spans finance, logistics, construction, and real estate investing—all rooted in a drive to build strong, values-aligned businesses. Lacey believes momentum comes from doing the little things well and brings a steady, thoughtful approach to entrepreneurship. Amanda Haire grew up around entrepreneurship — watching her dad run a third-generation lumber yard sparked her own desire to build something lasting. Before entering the transportation industry, she spent over a decade as a paramedic, a role that taught her to lead with calm and purpose under pressure. She also invested in and co-owned businesses in the residential construction space. Today, she's proud to help modernize a legacy business and to inspire more women to pursue entrepreneurship.   Connect with Lacey and Amanda Website: https://www.transportexpress.com/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laceyroxannolson/ / https://www.linkedin.com/in/amanda-haire-980424232/  

Este nuevo episodio de Pop y Muerte muestra de manera distintiva tres de los pilares que sujetan el podcast: 1) glosa épico-emocional de cosas que molan, 2) pedagogía cultural prolija y 3) hilaridad exaltada. Lo último siempre desde el respeto (es broma). El tema aquí es la locura, parte dos. Kiko Amat realiza un canto de fan a la figura de Lawrence (Felt, Denim, Go-Kart Mozart, Mozart Estate), genio obsesivo del pop inglés, maníaco del control y neurótico hipersensible; y persona bastante chiflada, en general. Benja Villegas se ocupa de Pete “Pistol” Maravich, la traumadísima “gran esperanza blanca” de Lousiana State, quien acabó hablando con extraterrestres y, peor aún, alimentándose de verdura y haciendo yoga. Kiko Amat clausura el capítulo con un regocijado análisis de Margery Kempe, la mística delirante inglesa del siglo XIV que celebraba la “hombría de Cristo” y deseaba que Dios le besara los pies “amorosamente”.

Tune in and be updated today on the current transportation industry, with significant capacity and challenges in customer relationships, regional freight trends, insights on the impact of upcoming NMFC code changes, and the significance of continuous business development in a competitive market!   References/Resources https://www.joc.com/article/us-trucking-rate-momentum-stalls-amid-volume-decline-cass-ppis-6023976 https://www.joc.com/article/schneider-jb-hunt-see-us-truck-capacity-shrinking-in-h2-6023884 https://www.ttnews.com/articles/trump-california-emissions  

Per Fredriksson, founder of Stockholm-based premium menswear label Circle Of Friends Studio, reflects on launching the brand in 2015 and how his lifelong career in fashion manufacturing shaped its focus on high-quality denim.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Let's end this week with more business growth strategies with today's guest, John Marienau of Valey, sharing his real industry experience! John highlights the challenges and successes of entrepreneurship in freight, the importance of consistent daily effort and sustainable work practices, Valey's comprehensive staffing solutions, and his goal to promote a supportive entrepreneurial community!   About John Marienau John Marienau blends over a decade of logistics and project leadership with a love for smart systems and great teams. At Valey, he's on a mission to help founders do their best work by helping teams move faster, smoother, and with more intention. Valey's special offer for listeners: https://www.valey.io/freightcoach/   

Country artist Robert Adam is Calgary's self-proclaimed “Dream Angel Cowboy.” But they say celebrating queer identity isn't always easy in their home province of Alberta or in Nashville, where they made their upcoming full-length album, “Governed by the Seasons.” Robert joins guest host Gill Deacon to talk about finding their musical community, making country music on their own terms and why their album tour won't include any stops in the U.S. Plus, they set up their bold and totally irresistible new single, “Denim on Denim.” If you like this chat, check out Tom Power's conversation with Canadian singer-songwriter Bells Larsen on why he cancelled his U.S. tour.

On this fourth episode of the MSA in 5 from Man Seeks Adventure Brad Fanshaw and Abby Iverson have some great tips. EPISODE 106 Hear About: • Best Places In Yellowstone • Make a Mexican Martini • Denim Comes of Age VISIT US: www.ManSeeksAdventure.com FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM @manseeksadventure @Bradley_Fanshaw @davidwmarek

Lena Patriksson Keller and Jonas Clason, co-founders of European denim house Jeanerica, discuss their long-standing creative partnership and timeless Scandinavian design. And: we meet the creator of the autonomous mobility vehicle, Iino, in Tokyo.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

If you're looking for more strategies to operate and manage your freight business efficiently, look no further and listen to our guest, Kyle Lintner! Kyle emphasizes improving cash flow and profitability, key business assessment processes, the importance of automation, balancing technology and human interaction, and leveraging AI tools for various tasks!   About Kyle Lintner Born, raised, and residing in Chicago, Kyle Lintner is an unapologetic Cubs fan, free market enthusiast, and logical tamer of risk. Utilizing 25 years of investment market experience, Kyle employs a unique methodology to solve problems within supply chains. With an objective, analytical point of view, Kyle is a frequent contributor in print, television, and radio for unbiased assessments of current freight market dynamics, conditions, and industry participants.  

In this episode, we've got another incredible guest, Sean Dehan from Truckstop! Sean talks about the importance of adapting to challenging market dynamics, longer sales cycles post-COVID, Truckstop's strategy for building long-term relationships and effective communication, future development plans, and more that you shouldn't miss!   About Sean Dehan Sean Dehan is the VP of Corporate Strategy at Truckstop and one of the most trusted load boards in freight for almost 30 years. Sean is an expert in carrier success, freight fraud prevention, and industry trends. With fraud on the rise and market conditions constantly shifting, he offers a grounded, insightful view of what's happening behind the scenes — and how brokers and carriers alike can stay ahead.   Connect with Sean Website: https://truckstop.com/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dehansean/  

WELCOME to Season 5 of the ⁠⁠WE GOT US NOW Podcast⁠⁠ series POWERED by ⁠⁠Chicago Beyond ⁠HOSTED by ⁠⁠Ebony Underwood⁠⁠For our 7th annual #KeepFamiliesConnected multimedia campaign series that runs from Mother's Day through Father's Day, WE spotlight voices from our community, and uplift our allies working across the field to create a just and equitable society that seeks to keep justice-impacted families connected.  S5 | EP5: MIKO UNDERWOOD ~ Fashion as a Bridge: Catalyzing Healing, Sustainability & Creative ExpressionMiko Underwood  is the award-winning  Founder / Designer of OAK & ACORN ~ Only for the Rebelles, the first sustainable brand in Harlem, NY.  A denim expert and innovator, with nearly twenty years of wash, product and brand development, Miko has become a leading voice in the sustainable denim space. She is committed to propelling the fashion industry into a more sustainable era where empowerment, cultural responsibility & accountability are at the forefront. She is passionate in telling a more inclusive American Denim story by shining a light on the UNTOLD HISTORY of the Indigenous American and the enslaved Africans contributions that have shaped American manufacturing and American Denim. Miko noticed firsthand the devastating environmental effects of manufacturing denim, inspiring her to research and innovate sustainable alternatives.Her work in Denim has won her industry accolades including a feature in VOGUE  & other global recognition. The CEO of Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA), Stephen Kolb, recommended Miko as WGSN Future Designer 2021.  And she was voted as one of the most influential people in denim for the Rivet 50 2021, an annual index of the most influential people in denim globally.  Miko is also the 2021 WINNER of RIVET + PROJECT AWARDS: Best Men Collection. She garnered support from fashion organizations like Harlem's Fashion Row, RAISEfashion & is a CFDA/Bethann Hardison Designer Hub Grant Recipient and Designer Hub Founding Member. OAK & ACORN was one of 6 brands featured in Nordstrom NYC's Black Founders x Center Stage Pop-Up in February 2020. The brand made history in Nordstrom as the first Black Designer Brand on the Designer 4th Floor in their New York City Flagship. OAK & ACORN ~ Only for the Rebelles has been listed as “Label to Watch” by The SPINOFF, HIGHSNOBIETY, HYPEBAE and most recently was highly recommended by Essence Magazine's, EssenceGu "Look to Shop" for BEYONCE's Cowboy Carter Tour. In this episode, Miko takes us along her personal journey and shares who and what sparked fashion and denim design for her. She gives insights into the creative process of fashion design, the importance of sustainability, and how her passion for art & design has been a healing catalyst for spiritual, transformation and creative expression.This insightful episode is deeply introspective and inspiring!FOR MORE INFORMATION, GO TO: ⁠⁠WEGOTUSNOW.org⁠ ⁠|⁠⁠ Instagram⁠⁠ LISTEN to the WE GOT US NOW Podcast on ApplePodcasts , Spotify and all podcasts platforms.#WEGOTUSNOW #Fashion #Artist #Sustainability #Denim #History #OakandAcorn #OnlyFortheRebelles #ArtistisTheHealer #Designer #MikoUnderwood #Craftsmanship #Creative #CreativeExpression #Incarceration #Daughter #Father #Mother #Family #WeGotUsNowCommunity

Whether you're an aspiring or experienced freight broker, listen to this episode with our returning guest from Rocket Shipping, Gabe Pankonin, as he shares his expert insights on upcoming NMFC code changes! Gabe explains how the NMFC changes could represent a significant shift in transportation, the opportunities for brokers to provide proactive analysis, and more about cold calling success, resolving operational challenges, and understanding the impact of class changes!   About Gabe Pankonin Gabe Pankonin has always had a knack for sales and relationships - a skillset that has led him to run a successful, fast-growing freight startup in the industry. After several years servicing E-comm companies moving big and bulky freight, one painful reality set in: Brands had the marketing skills to grow quickly, but they were NO match for outdated LTL shipping solutions. Gabe saw this issue plaguing the LTL space...that as shippers get bigger and start to handle more shipments, half of their business turns into the logistics of just getting things to people's homes Which is why he started Rocket Shipping; Mid-Market Managed Transportation! Rocket's Core Values are an extension of Gabe's deeply held beliefs. Faith, Family, Joy, Grit, and Integrity. Ultimately, the goal Gabe set for Rocket has and always will be to build predictable and repeatable revenue and to impact the people who work with and at Rocket Shipping for many years to come!  

TJ Radio´s Tschebesta got a hold of Turbonegro´s Rune Rebellion. They talk Turbo´s comeback on stage, the summer of 2025, the perils of aging and also have a big surprise up their Denim sleves!

TJ Radio´s Tschebesta got a hold of Turbonegro´s Rune Rebellion. They talk Turbo´s comeback on stage, the summer of 2025, the perils of aging and also have a big surprise up their Denim sleves!

In this episode of Supply Chain Decoded, we sit down with Sean Smith, VP of Product and Client Services at Denim, for a candid look into what it really takes to build meaningful, transparent products in freight fintech. From his early days in management consulting to scaling a dump truck marketplace, Sean shares how he found his way into freight — and why he's here to stay. Sean unpacks how Denim is rewriting the playbook for factoring by eliminating hidden fees, prioritizing transparency, and embedding financial education into every interaction. He shares how his team transforms customer feedback into real product features (often in days, not quarters), why AI is a powerful decision partner at Denim, and what it looks like when engineering, sales, and ops actually speak the same language. Plus: a sneak peek at Denim's Resolution Hub, how carriers can now self-elect QuickPay, and why it's time brokers double down on relationship-building. -- Disclaimer: All views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of Transfix, Inc. or any parent companies or affiliates or the companies with which the participants are affiliated, and may have been previously disseminated by them. The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are based upon information considered reliable, but neither Transfix, Inc. nor its affiliates, nor the companies with which such participants are affiliated, warrant its completeness or accuracy, and it should not be relied upon as such. All such views and opinions are subject to change.

Today, Bob King of Sage Freight brings his over thirty years of experience in the transportation industry and the entrepreneurial mindset that keeps him thriving and growing! Bob emphasizes prioritizing revenue-generating activities, accepting personal liability impacts decision-making, and promoting long-term customer relationships. Tune in to unpack more from this episode!   About Bob King Robert King is a veteran logistics executive and entrepreneur with over 30 years of experience in transportation and supply chain leadership. He is the Founder and CEO of Sage Freight, launched in October 2021 in Brentwood, Tennessee. Under his leadership, Sage Freight has grown into a high-performing logistics company with international operations and a strong cultural foundation built on people, purpose, and process.  Before Sage, Robert served as President of One Point Logistics in early 2020, where he was recruited to lead a turnaround of a 250-person operation.  From 2005 to 2020, Robert was the Founder and President of Cavalry Logistics, which he built from the ground up without outside funding. In 2010, he sold Cavalry to Universal Logistics Holdings but continued to lead the company as President for nearly a decade post-acquisition.  Robert began his career at C.H. Robinson in August 1993, starting in the North Chicago office. He rose through the ranks to become Transportation Manager and, ultimately, General Manager of the Nashville office.  He later served as Director of Logistics at Western Express from 2004 to 2005, where he launched a brokerage team that achieved a multimillion-dollar run rate in its first year and helped establish a high-performing, cross-functional culture.  Robert holds a Bachelor of Arts in Global Security and Nuclear Warfare from the University of Wisconsin–Madison. Known for his strategic clarity, cultural leadership, and operational excellence, he continues to shape the future of freight through innovation, acquisition, and people-first growth.  

Want to learn more about refrigerated freight for the food and beverage industry? Listen to this week's last guest, Michael Cherney, the co-founder and CEO of Cooler Logistics! Michael shares his shift from the financial services sector to founding Cooler Logistics, their company's strategic focus on small to mid-sized customers, innovative operational approaches using technology, and the importance of customer retention and consistent pricing strategies!   About Michael Cherney Michael Cherney is a proven leader in the logistics industry with 16 years of experience. He holds a master's degree in Global Supply Chain Management and a Lean Six Sigma Green Belt Certification. Known for his exceptional leadership, Michael, a first time CEO, leads a diverse team of experienced logistics professionals aiming to provide an exceptional experience to their carrier and customer partners alike. With an ideal customer profile of SMBs in the F&B vertical, his subject matter expertise in shipping fresh and frozen products shines.    Connect with Michael Website: https://www.coolerlogistics.com/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelcherney/  

Today, you'll hear more market trends within the trucking industry, sales prospecting strategies, implementing better financial planning, and leveraging AI for operational efficiency! Tune in so you won't miss an episode that is valuable for your freight business!  

Listen to our featured guest today, Scooter Sayers of Cubiscan, sharing their role in the logistics industry, their four decades of journey, and Cubiscan's advanced automated dimensioning systems! Scooter delves into the upcoming National Motor Freight Classification (NMFC) changes, the importance of shippers understanding these changes to minimize invoice discrepancies and optimize pallet dimensioning processes, and the impact of digital transformation in the industry!   About Scooter Sayers Scooter graduated from the University of Arkansas with a Bachelor of Science in Industrial Engineering and a Master of Business Administration.  He, his wife, and his cat named Princeton currently reside in northeast Georgia. He began his career in transportation with ABF Freight in 1991 as a Pricing Analyst, progressing through several positions including Director – Rating & Traffic Services.  In this latter role, he held responsibility for 100 employees in the corporate office as well as the Weighing & Research team spread across the ABF Freight network.  He developed the LTL industry's first density-based tariff in 1993. Scooter is a former member of the National Motor Freight Traffic Association (NMFTA) where he served as Chairman of the Weighing and Research Committee and Chairman of the Outreach Committee.  He also served as a member of NMFTA's Weighing & Research Association.  He is a two-time winner of ABF Freight's President's Club.  He is a member of the Arkansas Academy of Industrial Engineers. Following a 25-plus year career at ABF Freight and ArcBest Corporation, Scooter spent 3 years in the 3PL and freight brokerage space with several companies.  He then formed Sayers Logistics LLC, an LTL transportation consultancy, to deliver LTL solutions by working with shippers, carriers, trade organizations, 3PLs, and technology providers to help move the LTL industry forward.    Scooter is currently employed at Cubiscan, a leader in freight dimensioning solutions, as their Business Development Director – LTL Solutions.  He spends his days speaking with shippers, carriers, and 3PLs to deploy solutions that maximize revenues and profits, minimize costs, and optimize systems. He enjoys running, the outdoors, BBQ cooking, supporting the special needs community, and following his beloved Arkansas Razorbacks.   Connect with Scooter Website: https://cubiscan.com/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scootersayers/  

In this episode, we've invited a talent acquisition expert from Global Executive Solutions Group, Josiah DiPaolo, to discuss the intricacies of recruiting effective people within the transportation industry!  Tune in to hear his insights on the job market, the demand for specific freight expertise, particularly in sales roles, and his advice for freight businesses!   About Josiah DiPaolo Josiah is a Managing Director and within the Transportation, Logistics, & Supply Chain Management practices, with a focus in Intermodal, Drayage, and Port Logistics. Throughout his career in the executive search industry Josiah has established himself as a top resource in his respective niches in order to provide the top level of both search and consultative practices to his clients and candidates. Through a strong understanding of the industry both on a micro and macro level he is able to efficiently identify the right people and develop strong lasting relationships. Josiah has worked with over 50 organizations both domestically and globally and has been recognized as a top 10% performer within a nationwide network of 650+ executive recruiters for 2021, 2022, 2023, & 2024. As a Managing Director, Josiah's personal work consists of executive level & C-suite search, organizational mentorship, and strategic team building.   Connect with Josiah Website: https://gesg.com/  Email: jdipaolo@gesg.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/global-executive-solutions-group/  

What's the key to maintaining a core competency in freight and succeeding for a multi-generational family-owned trucking business? Today, we've got an incredible guest, Pamela Polyak of Polyak Trucking, and hear her real-world experience, business strategies, and commitment to industry improvement!   Some Takeaways From This Episode: Strategic Company Focus: Polyak Trucking, a family-owned business, has evolved from milk delivery to specialized in dry van, reefer, and intermodal operations. Customer base diversification strategy—ensuring no client exceeds 25% of total revenue to mitigate risks. Business Development Strategy: Diversifying shipper relationships and maintaining a core competency in full truckload services. The Midwest is the main geographic focus, with flexibility for dedicated lanes. Avoiding service overload improves operational efficiency and profitability. Compliance and Education: Compliance with FMCSA and DOT regulations is becoming increasingly complex. Pam Polyak's consulting firm focuses on mock DOT audits and compliance education for small fleets, addressing common gaps and enhancing knowledge in regulatory requirements like driver qualification and drug testing.  

In this episode of Ageless Radiance Club, we’re talking about style that evolves with you. My guest Nicole Adolphe is one of Australia’s most trusted fashion authorities. As the Fashion Director at The Iconic, she has styled and shaped the way thousands of Australian women shop online. From her days in editorial at titles uch as Grazia, Cosmo, and Dolly, to now curating style for one of the country’s biggest fashion retailers, Nicole’s career has been a masterclass in translating fashion into confidence. From capsule wardrobes to curated accessories, this conversation is packed with smart, practical tips on how to shop with purpose, dress with confidence, and create a wardrobe that reflects who you are right now. We unpack how to mix textures, understand your body shape, and get more from what you already own. We also explore denim trends, sustainable fashion choices, and how to refresh your look through life transitions. Whether you're in a rut or ready to elevate your everyday style, this episode is your permission slip to show up fully, and fashionably. Special Ageless Radiance Club Discount Code: AGELESS20 Offer valid to 4 July 2025 at 11:59pm. Minimum spend $99. Apply unique code at checkout. Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer or voucher code. Full priced items only. Prices are in AUD. Not applicable on Red Pen sale items, Pre-Loved and Toy range. Brand exclusions apply and are subject to change as set out on https://www.theiconic.com.au/promotional-terms-conditions/.Key Takeaways: Everyone needs to become their own stylist—especially with online shopping A capsule wardrobe guarantees outfit ease and polish Mixing textures keeps outfits dynamic and interesting Organising your wardrobe helps reduce waste and buy smarter Trying new styles builds confidence and personal evolution Denim should evolve with your body—not the other way around Accessories can elevate even the simplest outfit Fashion trends now have greater longevity—buy intentionally Timeless investment pieces contribute to sustainability Filter shopping by colour and brand to streamline the process Chapter Stamps: 00:00 – Introduction and Event Highlights01:31 – The Importance of Being Your Own Stylist02:55 – Building a Capsule Wardrobe04:54 – Elevating Your Look with Accessories06:05 – Organising Your Wardrobe Effectively08:20 – Understanding Personal Style and Body Shape10:51 – Experimenting with Bold Fashion Choices14:00 – Reinventing Your Style at Life Transitions18:02 – Navigating Denim Trends22:36 – Choosing the Right Footwear24:30 – Current Fashion Trends and Seasonal Insights31:19 – Understanding Fashion Seasons33:24 – Sustainability in Fashion35:41 – Winter Wishlist Watch full episode here: https://youtu.be/pttChUo9u6cSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Listen to our last guest this week, Rob Rajfer, the founder and CEO of Waggon, as he speaks about his entrepreneurial journey and success in the transportation industry!     Here's What to Learn From This Episode: Rob Rajfer's Entrepreneurial Journey: Rob transitioned from a career at C.H. Robinson to founding Waggon with Tyler Sala. Launched in May 2023, catalyzed by market downturns and a risk-taking mindset post-capital raise from friends and family. Waggon's Growth Metrics: Bootstrapped from personal savings, Waggon achieved $3M in top-line revenue in its first six months and targets 6x growth in the second year, with ambitions to 3x again. Emphasis on talent and processes over tech complexity is vital to this growth. Key Industry Insights: Rob identifies M&A as significant for industry consolidation, benefiting fragmented small brokerages. Automation and AI will enhance back-office functions, but human interaction remains crucial in sales and customer service for maintaining competitive edge.   About Rob Rajfer Robert received his BA in Liberal Arts and Business Management from Indiana University and his MS in Law from Northwestern University. Robert has worked in the supply chain / logistics industry for the past five years. Robert spent the first three years of his career at C.H. Robinson (NASDAQ: CHRW) and the following years at Flock Freight (backed by SoftBank, Google Ventures, and Signal Fire). In conjunction with his work in supply chain / logistics, Robert is the Managing Partner of Seconds Capital LLC, a boutique micro VC.  

In this episode, Joe Ohr and Holly Taylor let us explore the powerful features of NMFTA's new freight classification tool, the ClassIT+! Don't miss out on this discussion to hear how ClassIT+ can help navigate NMFC changes!   Here's What to Learn From This Episode: ClassIT+ Launch: Significant focus on the upcoming NMFC code changes with a rollout date of July 19, 2025 and industry urged to prepare using new tools. User-Centric Development: ClassIT+ aims for modernized classification with a user-friendly interface. Positive beta feedback shows high intuitiveness; the knowledge base supports with 150+ articles to assist users. Operational Readiness: Organizations need proactive communication regarding NMFC changes, especially for packaging/density impacts. NMFTA provides resources for shippers, carriers, and brokers to avoid disruptions and ensure smoother transitions.   Visit the Links Below! https://info.nmfta.org/2025-nmfc-changes/nmfc-item-lookup-tool https://info.nmfta.org/2025-nmfc-changes https://info.nmfta.org/classitplus  

(00:00-26:44) Something about a pontoon boat. Betting against the Rockies is profit season. Joe Buck was pumped to meet The Chairman yesterday. Chairman kept it playa. Greg Warren will be joining us at 8:15. Doug's not sure if he's playing in The Dotem. Denim on the golf course. Hand up, I'm hypocrite. You're DQed if you wear denim to The Dotem. Umm....are we even going to talk City?(26:52-35:02) What a comeback in Baltimore last night. Audio of Nolan Arenado's 8th inning homerun last night. Ask for Pestus, you get Pestus. Pestus loves the crack of the bat. He doesn't trust Uber. Is Stevie Wonder really blind?(35:12-1:00:27) Why was Sade in St. Louis? Is Indecent Proposal the ultimate cuckold movie? What up world. Doug has some thoughts on City SC. New coach bump. Sniffin' out CBC grads. Doug can't kick with both legs. St. Gabe's vs. St. Raphael. Audio of the Cardinals post game shoutouts in the tunnel. Bros calling other bros to say goodnight. Earthquake or gentleman lover?See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Today, we'll talk about the keys to building strong and long-term client relationships with SPI Logistics' Mike Ghouleh! Learn the crucial role of having a support system and his own formula for success by listening to this episode!   Here's What to Learn From This Episode: Client Transparency: Mike emphasizes open cost sharing, building strong client trust despite not being the cheapest. Highlights support team's role in client care as crucial for success. Sales Strategy: Mike advocates for a quality-focused client base over volume, aligning service delivery with client needs. Resilience and Growth: Overcoming setbacks and maintaining a long-term vision, the importance of personal fitness, support systems, and a clear 'why' to combat burnout and sustain motivation.  

How powerful is it to leverage platforms to vet potential business partners in freight? Let's hear it from Robert Light of CarrierSource in this episode!   Here's What to Learn From This Episode: Industry Insight on Accountability: Rob emphasizes mutual accountability & transparency as critical in freight. CarrierSource aims to empower small fleets/owner-operators lacking online visibility to ensure fair play in the industry. Importance of Online Reputation: Authentic reviews and SEO are shifting from traditional advertising, making a strong digital presence essential for brokers and carriers to stand out. Moderation and Authenticity Assurance: CarrierSource's review system mandates proof of business relationships for publishing reviews, allowing substantiated negative feedback. This balanced approach enhances credibility, vital for combating fraudulent or biased reviews.   About Robert Light Rob Light is the CEO and Co-founder of CarrierSource, the leading carrier review website where carriers and brokers build a fair reputation with customer reviews, and connect with their ideal shipper prospects. Over the last four years, Rob has led CarrierSource as the team has gathered 70,000+ reviews of carriers and brokers, and helped attract an audience of over 400,000 monthly visitors. CarrierSource is the only industry specific intent data platform that helps transportation providers hone in on their ideal customer persona, and target them when they are in the market for new logistics partners. Prior to starting CarrierSource, Rob was an early employee at the software review website G2.com. At G2, Rob saw the power of customer reviews and how small businesses could leverage the voice of their customers to compete with the largest companies in the space.   Connect with Robert Email: rob@carriersource.io  Website: https://www.carriersource.io/   

Did you miss listening to some expert insights featured on this show about leveraging AI and technology in your freight business? We're bringing Dhruv Gupta and Brad Hollister back on the podcast for a replay mashup episode to hear their goals in enhancing human capabilities and streamlining business processes through AI and tech!   Connect with Dhruv Website: https://www.drumkit.ai/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dhruv4/ Connect with Brad Website: https://www.upwell.com/  Email: brad.hollister@upwell.com Watch Their Episodes on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JZpZbKdMoSk https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=exumEsL36FY  

In today's episode, Sean Smith is back for another valuable conversation about capital management strategies, cash flow optimization, and making wise financial decisions! Keep tuning in to the show!   Here's What to Learn From This Episode: Understanding Working Capital: Critical for business continuity; key sources include asset-based loans (lowest rates), AR lines/factoring, predatory factoring, and unsecured advances (highest rates). Match funding sources to needs to mitigate risks and costs. Emotional Decision-Making in Cash Management: Overpaying for capital or holding excess idle cash traps businesses. Regularly review expenses and maintain lean operations; avoid pitfalls of both excess and insufficient cash reserves. Optimizing Cash Flow and Payment Strategies: Leverage accounts receivable and manage payment timing to enhance liquidity. Recognize red flags (e.g., high credit utilization) and negotiate favorable payment terms to protect business interests. Set clear contracts and maintain open communication for effective relationship management.   About Sean Smith Sean Smith, VP of Product at Denim, has spent 10 years building and scaling products in the financial services and logistics industries. While leading Product at Denim, he has pioneered new capabilities for the factoring space including risk automation and pricing.  Sean has also led work on our client dashboard, job management and collaboration that have revolutionized the process and workflow for broker clients looking to save time on back office operations. He excels at combining his passion for technology with the ability to drive impact on a balance sheet.   Connect with Sean Website: https://www.denim.com/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/smithseanp/  Twitter (X): https://x.com/smithseanp  

Jeff Carlson of Cass Information Systems is back in today's episode to discuss the extended shipper payment cycle and its potential impact on startups and small carriers in the industry! Stay connected to the show for more market updates!   Here's What to Learn From This Episode: Freight Market Stabilization: Freight volumes and rates showing stability in 2024; CAS Freight Index indicates steady average transaction sizes. Minor fluctuations noted during events (e.g., DOT blitz week) may signal capacity shifts. Extended Shipper Payment Terms: Shippers shifting focus to cash position; increasing payment terms up to 120 days. Large enterprises favor financial stability with carriers, making it tougher for startups to enter the market without proven track records. Supply chain finance programs target transportation to improve liquidity. Impact on Small Carriers: Small/startup carriers advised to avoid enterprise shippers initially to build stability; extended receivables and large credit lines are essential for handling substantial accounts. Effective cash flow management is critical; recommend lines of credit or factoring to prevent negative cash flow amid extended payment terms.   About Jeff Carlson Jeff joined Cass Information Systems in April of 2019 as Vice President Global Sales & Marketing. Jeff joined Cass with more than 20 years' experience in the freight payment industry, where he served in several strategic management roles. While at U.S. Bank, he played a significant role in the development of key aspects of the PowerTrack solution, pricing model, and marketing and sales processes. He also was part of the supply chain finance team to help build out aspects of that service offering. Jeff also served as a vice president of the technology, consumer products/retail, and manufacturing industry verticals at freight payment provider Trax Technologies. Prior to his experience in the freight payment industry, Jeff spent time with Dart Trucking, Canadian Pacific Railroad after starting his career at Koch Industries. Website: https://www.cassinfo.com/