Podcasts about union pacific

Dive into the proposed rail mega-merger of Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern, which Republican legislators warn threatens to raise consumer costs, reduce competition, and create "captive shippers". This controversial deal would combine systems controlling nearly 45% of all U.S. rail tonnage across 43 states, raising serious questions about long-term service reliability and inflationary pressure on American households. The trucking market remains in a recession due to a collapse in demand and a significant industrial recession, confirmed by indices like the SONAR Outbound Tender Volume Index (OTVI). Despite low demand, the market could face a radical supply shock if estimates hold true that new immigration enforcement targeting foreign-born drivers could remove 16%, or over 600,000, of the current driver population, potentially strengthening freight rates by late next year. We also examine the FMCSA's new pilot program testing flexible sleeper berth split options, such as 6/4 and 5/5 hours, designed to provide more flexibility for truckers. Safety groups like OOIDA and the TCA are cautioning regulators about a high potential for driver coercion, insisting on strict safeguards and anonymous reporting methods to ensure that discretion belongs solely to the driver. Postmaster General David Steiner is driving a "U-turn" strategy at the USPS, re-emphasizing last-mile delivery services for big shippers like UPS and Amazon to grow revenue by leveraging the agency's unique national network]. While the goal is to stop revenue decline, critics worry this move risks cannibalizing USPS's own products and empowering competitors by handling the toughest delivery segment for them. We also briefly touch on the regulatory back-and-forth seen internationally, such as the now-suspended U.S. fees on Chinese ships, which analysts warned would ultimately burden U.S. agricultural exporters. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Learn how EV maker Harbinger secured significant capital and a key initial fleet order in Harbinger lands $160M Series C, inks initial FedEx deal for 53 electric trucks. The electric vehicle manufacturer raised $160 million in Series C funding, bringing its total to $358 million, and simultaneously received an initial order for 53 Class 5 and Class 6 electric vehicles from FedEx. Harbinger's proprietary electric platform offers competitive acquisition costs and modular batteries, ranging from 140 to over 200 miles, positioning the company to lead the mass adoption of medium-duty electric trucks. Next, we dive into the contentious rail industry merger detailed in Rail merger could raise prices, hurt US ability to compete, say GOP legislators. Dozens of Republican state legislators have warned regulators that the proposed Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern rail mega-merger threatens to raise consumer costs on essential goods and hinder the competitive ability of U.S. companies. Legislators argue that the combined system would control nearly 45% of U.S. rail tonnage across 43 states, creating "captive shippers" and risking widespread service disruptions and supply chain instability. Finally, discover the major strategy shift at the national carrier, covered in US Postal Service makes U-turn on last-mile delivery. New Postmaster General David Steiner announced the U.S. Postal Service must grow revenue by leveraging its unique national network to provide last-mile delivery service for large shippers, reversing the strategy of his predecessor. This reversal has led to a tentative agreement with UPS for its budget Ground Saver service, although critics like parcel industry executives worry that offering last-mile services to competitors could cannibalize existing USPS parcel products. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Margy Eckelkamp of thedailyscoop.com joins Davis Michaelsen to discuss A.I. plus fertilizer and the latest developments on the railroad merger between Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern. Then our Farmer Forum features Brent Judisch of Iowa and Sherman Newlin of Illinois.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Three major companies—Mega Nice Trucking, Ryder Last Mile, and Costco Wholesale Corp—are facing what is likely the first significant enforcement action of California's AB5 regulation in the trucking industry, resulting in an $868,000 fine. The California Labor Commission cited the trio for contractor misclassification and resulting wage theft, finding that Ryder and Costco exercised both direct and indirect control over delivery drivers, thereby establishing a joint employer relationship with the carrier.  The trucking industry continues to monitor the fight over the Department of Transportation's non-domiciled Commercial Driver's License rules following the cancellation of 17,000 CDLs in California. Although California Governor Gavin Newsom and Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy are engaged in a heated public dispute over the cause, industry experts warn that the evolving enforcement signals new restrictions that will significantly impact carrier liability and freight capacity across the country, with analysts expecting more CDL cancellations in the near future.  A group of Attorneys General from nine states is urging the Surface Transportation Board to conduct a "thorough and exacting" review of the proposed merger between Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern. These AGs, representing GOP states, argue that the consolidation of rail services will compromise national security and stifle competition, leading to exacerbated existing problems such as higher costs and lower reliability for key strategic American industries. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Three major companies—Mega Nice Trucking, Ryder Last Mile, and Costco Wholesale Corp—are facing what is likely the first significant enforcement action of California's AB5 regulation in the trucking industry, resulting in an $868,000 fine. The California Labor Commission cited the trio for contractor misclassification and resulting wage theft, finding that Ryder and Costco exercised both direct and indirect control over delivery drivers, thereby establishing a joint employer relationship with the carrier.  The trucking industry continues to monitor the fight over the Department of Transportation's non-domiciled Commercial Driver's License rules following the cancellation of 17,000 CDLs in California. Although California Governor Gavin Newsom and Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy are engaged in a heated public dispute over the cause, industry experts warn that the evolving enforcement signals new restrictions that will significantly impact carrier liability and freight capacity across the country, with analysts expecting more CDL cancellations in the near future.  A group of Attorneys General from nine states is urging the Surface Transportation Board to conduct a "thorough and exacting" review of the proposed merger between Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern. These AGs, representing GOP states, argue that the consolidation of rail services will compromise national security and stifle competition, leading to exacerbated existing problems such as higher costs and lower reliability for key strategic American industries. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We analyze why Ocean rates tested by capacity conundrum despite carriers attempting General Rate Increases and blanked sailings, indicating continued overcapacity and weak demand on the trans-Pacific trade lane. Simultaneously, we explore the quick response from air cargo providers, detailing how FedEx plugs transport hole caused by MD-11 groundings by activating spare aircraft and diverting packages to its domestic ground network. We examine the state of port traffic, noting that Container imports off 17.6% at leading US port in October 2025, although the Port of Long Beach remains on pace to surpass its all-time annual cargo record from 2024. Turning to rail, we discuss Union Pacific's strategic moves as Union Pacific guarantees more post-merger union jobs, successfully securing the support of the National Conference of Firemen and Oilers (NCFO) and SMART-TD by committing to career-long employment for hundreds of members. In the trucking sector, we analyze carrier strategy as Werner says ‘no retreat' possible in dedicated fleet size, citing base capacity needs despite the ongoing severe downturn in the industry. Finally, we delve into the dramatic collapse of a highly anticipated venture, learning the story behind why “America's Biggest Truck Stop” Falls Silent — Inside the Eviction of Trucker's Paradise in Texas after months of financial disputes, investor issues, and allegations of unpaid wages. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We analyze why Ocean rates tested by capacity conundrum despite carriers attempting General Rate Increases and blanked sailings, indicating continued overcapacity and weak demand on the trans-Pacific trade lane. Simultaneously, we explore the quick response from air cargo providers, detailing how FedEx plugs transport hole caused by MD-11 groundings by activating spare aircraft and diverting packages to its domestic ground network. We examine the state of port traffic, noting that Container imports off 17.6% at leading US port in October 2025, although the Port of Long Beach remains on pace to surpass its all-time annual cargo record from 2024. Turning to rail, we discuss Union Pacific's strategic moves as Union Pacific guarantees more post-merger union jobs, successfully securing the support of the National Conference of Firemen and Oilers (NCFO) and SMART-TD by committing to career-long employment for hundreds of members. In the trucking sector, we analyze carrier strategy as Werner says ‘no retreat' possible in dedicated fleet size, citing base capacity needs despite the ongoing severe downturn in the industry. Finally, we delve into the dramatic collapse of a highly anticipated venture, learning the story behind why “America's Biggest Truck Stop” Falls Silent — Inside the Eviction of Trucker's Paradise in Texas after months of financial disputes, investor issues, and allegations of unpaid wages. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Joining us today is Thomas Lamb, CEO of Myriad Uranium, who are breathing new life into the historic Copper Mountain District in Wyoming, a project first drilled by Union Pacific in the 1970s, but now being revived with modern tech, modern exploration thinking, and at a time when the U.S. urgently needs domestic uranium. We're going to discuss what that actually means on the ground, how Myriad is modernising decades-old data, and whether AI is truly moving the needle in exploration… or still mostly buzz. KEY TAKEAWAYS New chemical assays on historical drill samples are revealing 60% higher grades of uranium than originally detected by the 1970s probe technology, which has the potential to transform the project's volume and grade. Tom highlights the danger of "analysis paralysis" in junior mining, suggesting that a lack of industry specialisation can sometimes lead to a bolder, more successful entrepreneurial path. The recent ban on Russian uranium imports and geopolitical factors are creating an urgent push to rebuild a domestic U.S. uranium industry This is perfectly positioning companies like Myriad Uranium, operating in the mining-friendly state of Wyoming, for massive growth. BEST MOMENTS "We have now a chance to do something special here... The high-grade uranium and significant volumes of it probably sits in these near-vertical faults instead of in a band of low-grade uranium kind of near surface." "The AI is absolutely incredible at inhaling [geochemical data] and delivering insights... you can get them in five or 10 minutes” “A lot of these projects would take months for a geologist having to go through all the and try and figure out the ratios." "If you can be in the centre of Wyoming, we're next to a highway, we're next to high tension power, we're next to the railway... and we've got lots and lots of uranium. This is the opportunities for juniors like ours." VALUABLE RESOURCES Mail:        ⁠rob@mining-international.org⁠ LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-tyson-3a26a68/⁠ X:              ⁠https://twitter.com/MiningRobTyson⁠  YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/c/DigDeepTheMiningPodcast⁠  Web:        ⁠http://www.mining-international.org⁠ GUEST SOCIALS  https://www.linkedin.com/company/myriaduranium/ https://www.facebook.com/myriaduranium https://x.com/MyriadUranium Website: https://myriaduranium.com/ Tom's Email: tlamb@myriaduranium.com CONTACT METHOD ⁠rob@mining-international.org⁠ ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-tyson-3a26a68/⁠ Podcast Description Rob Tyson is an established recruiter in the mining and quarrying sector and decided to produce the “Dig Deep” The Mining Podcast to provide valuable and informative content around the mining industry. He has a passion and desire to promote the industry and the podcast aims to offer the mining community an insight into people's experiences and careers covering any mining discipline, giving the listeners helpful advice and guidance on industry topics.  This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/

DAT, a subsidiary of Roper Technologies, is evolving into an automated, AI-powered freight marketplace, a transformation discussed by executives at the FreightWaves F3 and on the Roper earnings call. This strategic shift is predicated on a series of key acquisitions, including the Convoy tech stack, Trucker Tools, and Outgo, which aim to build capabilities across the entire freight automation workflow, promising savings of $100–$200 per load.  We dive into the immediate crisis caused by federal attempts to restrict non-domiciled CDLs, a pool that has added over 200,000 licenses since 2019, contributing to the "Great Freight Recession". The U.S. Postal Service's sudden ban on these drivers led to immediate, severe service disruptions and a rapid reversal, highlighting the supply chain's critical reliance on this driver segment.  The program features an update on Union Pacific's aggressive campaign to secure approval for its $85 billion acquisition of Norfolk Southern, a merger that would create the first U.S. transcontinental freight railroad. This campaign includes strategic political maneuvering, such as a donation to President Trump's White House ballroom project and securing job guarantee backing from its largest labor union. In air cargo news, we cover Kalitta Air's deployment of the first-ever Boeing 777 converted freighters, dubbed the "Big Twin," for dedicated customers like DHL Express and Challenge Group, leveraging their increased volume and fuel efficiency. Finally, we examine Marten Transport's third-quarter earnings, which saw overall profitability maintained despite a loss in the Truckload segment, and discuss how the U.S. reached a trade framework with China even while tensions flared with Canada over a new 10% tariff increase.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

DAT, a subsidiary of Roper Technologies, is evolving into an automated, AI-powered freight marketplace, a transformation discussed by executives at the FreightWaves F3 and on the Roper earnings call. This strategic shift is predicated on a series of key acquisitions, including the Convoy tech stack, Trucker Tools, and Outgo, which aim to build capabilities across the entire freight automation workflow, promising savings of $100–$200 per load.  We dive into the immediate crisis caused by federal attempts to restrict non-domiciled CDLs, a pool that has added over 200,000 licenses since 2019, contributing to the "Great Freight Recession". The U.S. Postal Service's sudden ban on these drivers led to immediate, severe service disruptions and a rapid reversal, highlighting the supply chain's critical reliance on this driver segment.  The program features an update on Union Pacific's aggressive campaign to secure approval for its $85 billion acquisition of Norfolk Southern, a merger that would create the first U.S. transcontinental freight railroad. This campaign includes strategic political maneuvering, such as a donation to President Trump's White House ballroom project and securing job guarantee backing from its largest labor union. In air cargo news, we cover Kalitta Air's deployment of the first-ever Boeing 777 converted freighters, dubbed the "Big Twin," for dedicated customers like DHL Express and Challenge Group, leveraging their increased volume and fuel efficiency. Finally, we examine Marten Transport's third-quarter earnings, which saw overall profitability maintained despite a loss in the Truckload segment, and discuss how the U.S. reached a trade framework with China even while tensions flared with Canada over a new 10% tariff increase.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

HARLINGEN, Texas - The Free Trade Bridge at Los Indios is the crown jewel of Cameron County's international bridge system, according to the county's economic development director, Ramiro Aleman.The bridge is also known as “Los Indios-Lucio Blanco Bridge”, “Puente Lucio Blanco-Los Indios”, “Puente Internacional Libre Comercio” and “Los Indios Free Trade Bridge”. It is owned and operated by Cameron County. However, the cities of Harlingen and San Benito each receive 25% of the net revenues. The bridge facilities are located on a 127-acre tract of land.Aleman spoke about Los Indios at a Rio Grande Valley Partnership Commercialization and Investment Tour event, held at TSTC-Harlingen's Welcome Center. The event was sponsored by Harlingen Economic Development Corporation. “What I like to call the One Big Beautiful Bridge, Los Indios, is, I think, the crown jewel of the Cameron County International Bridge system, and you can quote me on that,” Aleman said.During a panel discussion, Aleman was asked to give an update on Cameron County's international bridge system.“Cameron County is at the forefront of innovation when it comes to international trade. I say that because I think we just accomplished something that's never been done before, at least from our research,” Aleman said.“Cameron County is on the verge of purchasing an ownership stake in the B&M Bridge from Union Pacific. I don't think that's ever been done before, at least through our research. With that purchase, Cameron County will now own Veterans Bridge at Los Tomates, which is a commercial and passenger bridge,” Aleman said. “And Gateway Bridge, which is passenger only, is about to have tremendous upgrades. Over $100 million in upgrades (is coming), plus an additional standalone pedestrian bridge which will ease crossings.”Aleman then waxed lyrical about Los Indios.“What I like to call the One Big Beautiful Bridge, Los Indios, is, I think, the crown jewel of the Cameron County International Bridge System, and you can quote me on that. The reason I say that is because it's an overweight corridor and an oversized corridor. You see all those wind turbines? They don't cross anywhere else but Los Indios, because that's the only bridge capable (of carrying such cargo). Not only that, but we also have a cold storage and a cold room facility for (fresh produce) inspections.”Aleman said any type of fruit or vegetable can cross at Los Indios.“Fruits or vegetables that need to keep that cold chain, they can cross through here and never break that cold chain. Also, USDA has an agriculture inspection facility there. So, anytime they find any type of anomaly in the product, they can identify it on site. If they have to send it to a lab, that can take hours, days sometimes. But the advantage of us having it at our location is definitely something that we should be promoting, because it is a big advantage for us,” Aleman said.“I think it is a prime location that you are able to build on, especially here in Harlingen, because the overweight corridor goes right through the industrial park all the way to the Aerotropolis, and the Port of Harlingen. And so, I think that's a great opportunity for investments.”Editor's Note: Go to the RGG Business Journal to read the full story. Editor's Note: Attached is an audio recording of everything Aleman said on the panel at the RGVP event. Go to www.riograndeguardian.com to read the latest border news stories and watch the latest news videos.

Hello everyone, it's Bill Thompson – T Bill. Some of the things covered on today's session include:The new Russian Oil Sanctions.The National Basketball Association gambling probe.Dick's Sporting Goods announces the tripling of some of its store sizes. An increase in K-shaped spending patterns between higher and lower income brackets. Union Pacific announces a timeline for the merger with Norfolk Southern.Bayer announces an experiment of its 90,000 employees operating without managers. 

Show Highlights: Meet Jay Shabat, industry analyst and Railroad Weekly author. [04:25] Overview of Class I railroads and their market power. [08:01] Lessons from the pros and cons of the CPKC merger. [13:48] What's driving Union Pacific's acquisition of NS? [18:29] Why Norfolk Southern is open to a strategic merger with UP. [24:39] Potential impacts of the UP–NS merger on ag shippers. [31:31] The STB's regulatory relief for captive shippers and competitive remedies. [38:38] UP's argument for transcontinental shipping efficiency. [44:34] Will BNSF and CSX respond with their own merger? [49:31] Scheduled UP–NS deal closing and STB review process. [57:25] Access Railroad Weekly at https://railroadweekly.substack.com/. To contact Jay Shabat, please email him at jay@railroadweekly.com or reach out to him on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/jay-shabat-6477b31/. Click this link to find Jay's book Glory Lost and Found on Amazon. If you are interested in connecting with Joe, go to LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joemosher/, or schedule a call at www.moshercg.com.

The proposed transcontinental railroad merger between Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern heads toward a shareholder vote on November 14th, as both companies' boards urge investors to approve the historic transaction. Simultaneously, the shipping industry is navigating major disruptions as Ocean freight rates plummet amid China chaos, causing container rates on key transpacific routes to hit two-year lows due to tariffs and declining demand. We also detail the new legislation introduced in the Senate, which seeks to vacate sentences for mechanics convicted of tampering with heavy-duty truck diesel equipment and remove the EPA's authority over vehicle pollution rules. Proponents of the legislation argue that current regulations unfairly criminalize mechanics for keeping essential vehicles running in harsh climates. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The proposed transcontinental railroad merger between Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern heads toward a shareholder vote on November 14th, as both companies' boards urge investors to approve the historic transaction. Simultaneously, the shipping industry is navigating major disruptions as Ocean freight rates plummet amid China chaos, causing container rates on key transpacific routes to hit two-year lows due to tariffs and declining demand. We also detail the new legislation introduced in the Senate, which seeks to vacate sentences for mechanics convicted of tampering with heavy-duty truck diesel equipment and remove the EPA's authority over vehicle pollution rules. Proponents of the legislation argue that current regulations unfairly criminalize mechanics for keeping essential vehicles running in harsh climates. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This weeks Rail Market Update covers:Leadership Shift at CSX: Joe Hinrichs departs, Steve Angel steps in as CEO, raising questions about future strategy.STB in the Spotlight: Robert Primus files lawsuit over wrongful termination; operations slowed by the government shutdown.Traffic Trends Mixed: Total North American rail traffic up slightly (+0.8%); intermodal growth (+2.2%) driven mainly by easy comparisons, while carloads (-0.6%) continue to struggle across most commodities.Regional Highlights: CN leads Canada (+9.0%), GMXT in Mexico posts strongest week in years (+21.2%), while Union Pacific lags (-12.6%).The Rail Market Update is hosted by FTR's Senior Analyst, Rail, Joseph Towers.  As this information is presented, you are welcome to follow along and look at the graphs and indicators yourself by downloading the PDF of the presentation.Download the PDF: https://www.ftrintel.com/rail-podcastSupport the show

BNSF Railway claims Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern combination will severely hurt competition and service. BNSF's position paper argues that the $85 billion deal will force UP to drive up rates and favor high-density lanes, prompting the railway to urge shippers to contact the Surface Transportation Board with their concerns. Trade tensions are mounting in the trans-Pacific maritime sector as Beijing prepares a regulatory volley in response to U.S. charges on Chinese ships. China amended regulations to allow "necessary countermeasures," potentially including fees on vessels or prohibiting U.S.-service ships from entering or leaving Chinese ports, in retaliation for costly U.S. port fees. Finally, we look at the logistics impact of new U.S. duties on construction and home goods materials. The proclamation introduces a 10% tariff on imported softwood lumber and timber, and a 25% duty on imported kitchen cabinets, vanities, and upholstered wood furniture, all effective starting October 14. Critics caution that these tariffs, which the administration states are aimed at protecting the U.S. wood industry, will inevitably lead to higher costs for American consumers and builders. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

BNSF Railway claims Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern combination will severely hurt competition and service. BNSF's position paper argues that the $85 billion deal will force UP to drive up rates and favor high-density lanes, prompting the railway to urge shippers to contact the Surface Transportation Board with their concerns. Trade tensions are mounting in the trans-Pacific maritime sector as Beijing prepares a regulatory volley in response to U.S. charges on Chinese ships. China amended regulations to allow "necessary countermeasures," potentially including fees on vessels or prohibiting U.S.-service ships from entering or leaving Chinese ports, in retaliation for costly U.S. port fees. Finally, we look at the logistics impact of new U.S. duties on construction and home goods materials. The proclamation introduces a 10% tariff on imported softwood lumber and timber, and a 25% duty on imported kitchen cabinets, vanities, and upholstered wood furniture, all effective starting October 14. Critics caution that these tariffs, which the administration states are aimed at protecting the U.S. wood industry, will inevitably lead to higher costs for American consumers and builders. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

All eyes are on Washington today as the Supreme Court is scheduled to discuss whether to grant review in two critical broker liability cases under the F4A. The fundamental issue is whether the safety exception, which allows state action for negligence causing physical harm, extends to third-party logistics providers or brokers. The FMCSA's National Consumer Complaint Database modernization, part of Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy's broader Pro-Trucker Package, has officially gone live with Phase One. This long overdue tech upgrade is mobile-optimized and creates an official federal mechanism for reporting broker complaints, which can directly influence a company's safety ratings and audit priorities. The Surface Transportation Board is seeking more time to review the proposed $85 billion acquisition of Norfolk Southern by Union Pacific. The board has proposed a procedural schedule that slightly tweaks the original timeline and grants the Justice Department and Department of Transportation an extra 15 days to file their official comments. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to the American Railroading Podcast! In this episode our host Don Walsh is joined by guest Eric Starks, Chairman of FTR (Freight Transportation Research Associates). Together they discuss the pending $85 billion dollar Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern merger, the current status of the U.S. economy, an update on U.S. manufacturing and production including new railcar production, rail traffic, market trends and risks, a forecast for 2026 and much more. We also announce our 2025 Honor our Heroes Award winner! Tune in to this episode to gain valuable insights and broaden your understanding of American Railroading! You can find this episode and more on the American Railroading Podcast's official website at www.AmericanRailroading.net , and watch our YouTube Channel at the link below. Welcome aboard!KEY POINTS: The American Railroading Podcast remains in the Top 10% of all podcasts globally, now downloaded in 57 countries around the world!The podcast continues to experience incredible growth in downloads and subscribers. Mr. Starks is a graduate of Indiana University and was an Adjunct Lecturer at Indiana University, Kelley School of Business for 4 years, teaching MBA students Transportation and Distribution Strategy, and was instrumental in creating the Indiana University Transportation Board.Eric does a deep-dive into our current U.S. economy and GDP and gives us his opinion on whether or not they are where we expected them to be.Don and Eric discuss Tariffs, what their intended use is by the current administration, and whether or not they are providing the intended results.Eric gives his opinion of the pros and cons of the pending UP and NS merger, and they discuss the recently announced BNSF and CSX partnership.Don and Eric do a thorough review of current rail traffic, velocity, dwell times, commodity and car type trends, and more.You don't want to miss Eric's 2026 forecast!Our 2025 – American Railroading Podcast - Honor our Heroes Award winner is……You'll have to listen to the end of the episode to find out.

All eyes are on Washington today as the Supreme Court is scheduled to discuss whether to grant review in two critical broker liability cases under the F4A. The fundamental issue is whether the safety exception, which allows state action for negligence causing physical harm, extends to third-party logistics providers or brokers. The FMCSA's National Consumer Complaint Database modernization, part of Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy's broader Pro-Trucker Package, has officially gone live with Phase One. This long overdue tech upgrade is mobile-optimized and creates an official federal mechanism for reporting broker complaints, which can directly influence a company's safety ratings and audit priorities. The Surface Transportation Board is seeking more time to review the proposed $85 billion acquisition of Norfolk Southern by Union Pacific. The board has proposed a procedural schedule that slightly tweaks the original timeline and grants the Justice Department and Department of Transportation an extra 15 days to file their official comments. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hey listeners! On August 23rd, 1987, a 75-car, 6000-ton Union Pacific freight train was traveling through the sleepy town of Alexander, Arkansas. Suddenly, the crew onboard spotted a terrifying sight 300 feet before them: two figures laid across the tracks. Unfortunately, by the time the train came screeching to halt, it was too late. Little did the conductor know, but this tragedy would plunge a community into a decades-long nightmare, with unanswered questions, alleged corruption, and a persistent search for truth. This is the case of Kevin Ives and Don Henry, aka "The boys on the tracks." Check us out on our social media! We'd love to hear from you.Instagram - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠MysteryNoxPodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Send us a voice message! - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/mysterynoxpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Email us! - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠mysterynoxpodcast@gmail.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Buy us a KoFi? ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://ko-fi.com/mysterynoxpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Podcast Art by: James Funk*A list of our sources and photos from today's case can be found on our blog. Check it out here, at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠mysterynoxpodcast.wordpress.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠**

A "relentless" surge has happened in U.S-Mexico trade, which reached a staggering $840 billion in 2024 and jumped another 21% year-to-date in 2025. Companies like Echo Global Logistics are capitalizing on this growth, accelerating investment by opening a new office in Monterrey, Mexico, a key hub in the "golden triangle" of manufacturing. Nearshoring significantly enhances supply chain efficiency, cutting transit times from finished product to a U.S. door down to just 24 to 72 hours, far superior to the 14 to 20 days typically needed for freight coming from Asia. Shifting focus to the Pacific ports, we analyze the sharp, "truly historic decline" in U.S. container imports, projected to fall 15.7% for the remainder of 2025, driven by China tariffs and shipment front-loading. This soft volume is "absolutely hammering" the domestic trucking sector, leading to significant cuts in Q3 and Q4 earnings estimates for major asset-based truckload carriers like Schneider and Werner. Small carriers are feeling a "brutal" cash flow crisis, illustrated by the Chapter 11 bankruptcy filing of H5 Transport, which relied heavily on factoring to make weekly payroll. Union Pacific's proposed merger with Norfolk Southern is still on, aimed at achieving $1 billion in annual cost savings. We discuss why industry veterans caution that the secured lifetime job protection guarantees for the SMART-TD union might become a "ticket to misery" for employees forced into undesirable work or relocations. Ultimately, navigating the freight industry's future requires adapting to three massive disruptive forces: effectively integrating AI and FreightTech, managing geopolitical shifts and trade policies, and adjusting to changing workforce dynamics due to automation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A "relentless" surge has happened in U.S-Mexico trade, which reached a staggering $840 billion in 2024 and jumped another 21% year-to-date in 2025. Companies like Echo Global Logistics are capitalizing on this growth, accelerating investment by opening a new office in Monterrey, Mexico, a key hub in the "golden triangle" of manufacturing. Nearshoring significantly enhances supply chain efficiency, cutting transit times from finished product to a U.S. door down to just 24 to 72 hours, far superior to the 14 to 20 days typically needed for freight coming from Asia. Shifting focus to the Pacific ports, we analyze the sharp, "truly historic decline" in U.S. container imports, projected to fall 15.7% for the remainder of 2025, driven by China tariffs and shipment front-loading. This soft volume is "absolutely hammering" the domestic trucking sector, leading to significant cuts in Q3 and Q4 earnings estimates for major asset-based truckload carriers like Schneider and Werner. Small carriers are feeling a "brutal" cash flow crisis, illustrated by the Chapter 11 bankruptcy filing of H5 Transport, which relied heavily on factoring to make weekly payroll. Union Pacific's proposed merger with Norfolk Southern is still on, aimed at achieving $1 billion in annual cost savings. We discuss why industry veterans caution that the secured lifetime job protection guarantees for the SMART-TD union might become a "ticket to misery" for employees forced into undesirable work or relocations. Ultimately, navigating the freight industry's future requires adapting to three massive disruptive forces: effectively integrating AI and FreightTech, managing geopolitical shifts and trade policies, and adjusting to changing workforce dynamics due to automation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Omaha-based Union Pacific may soon become the first transcontinental railroad company in the United States, thanks to a proposed merger with Norfolk Southern. But the move has some rail employees worried about worker safety and a lack of government oversight. Nebraska Public Media's Brian Beach visited Union Pacific's Bailey Yard in North Platte to learn more.

What Could a Proposed Rail Merger Mean for Shippers in Montana? Join guest host Steve Arveschoug for an insightful discussion on how the potential merger between two of the top six Class 1 rail transportation providers—Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern—could […] The post What could a proposed Rail Merger mean for Shippers in Montana? first appeared on Voices of Montana.

Uber Freight is betting big on cross-border trade, deepening its imprint in Mexico by integrating customs, brokerage, and transportation services to help shippers navigate the complex trade environment, especially as U.S.-Mexico trade has surged 21% this year. The company uses a digitized method to provide visibility at the border, which historically has been referred to as the "black hole" in logistics, and helps customers avoid extra duties or delays due to shifting regulations like USMCA rules of origin. President Trump has voiced his approval for the proposed $85 billion merger between Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern, calling Union Pacific a "great railroad". If approved by the Surface Transportation Board (STB), this deal would create the nation's largest railroad, boasting 52,000 miles of track across 43 states. Volvo Trucks North America has also launched Load Finder, a new, free load board designed to help carriers reduce empty miles and deadhead operations. Developed in partnership with Canadian-based freight tech company Class8, the platform aggregates available loads from over 40 sources and integrates into the existing Volvo Connect system for customers. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today's episode of Supply Chain Now, we discuss the critical role of truck drivers in the supply chain, representing nearly 73% of freight delivery in the United States, as we celebrate Truck Driver Appreciation Week. Welcome to The Buzz, powered by EasyPost!!Today, hosts Scott Luton and Kevin L. Jackson welcome special guest Kevin Lawton, Founder & Host of The New Warehouse podcast. Listen in as Scott and 'Team Kevin" explore:The current state of the freight economy, highlighting the challenges faced by industry professionals amid a prolonged slump in freight pricingThe significant concerns raised by the largest rail industry labor union regarding the proposed merger between Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern, which may significantly impact safety practices and workforce environmentsTruck Driver Appreciation Week, acknowledging the essential role that truck drivers play in the supply chain and the pressures they endure, as evidenced by survey data revealing their dissatisfactionThe ramifications of the current freight market dynamics on operational efficiency, underscoring the necessity for innovation and adaptability in logisticsEmerging trends in warehouse technology, particularly the integration of computer vision to improve operational efficiencyJoin us as we advocate for a greater appreciation of professional truck drivers, especially during Truck Driver Appreciation Week, and celebrate their enormous impact and their vital contributions to the economy.Additional Links & Resources:With That Said: https://bit.ly/3JWppdN EasyPost: www.easypost.comManifest 2026: www.ManifestVegas.com/SupplyChainNow Trucker exodus: New survey reveals nearly 47% of drivers seeking new jobs: https://bit.ly/TruckDriverSurvey2025California Trucking Firms Go Under, Fueling Wider Industry Fears: https://on.wsj.com/4npetU8Coca-Cola aims to help solve the orange juice crisis with AI: https://bit.ly/SaveOrangesEasyPost's Advanced Tracking: https://get.easypost.com/advanced-tracking The New Warehouse: https://www.thenewwarehouse.com/ Kevin Lawton on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinclawton/Learn more about Supply Chain Now: https://supplychainnow.comWatch and listen to more Supply Chain Now episodes here: https://supplychainnow.com/program/supply-chain-nowSubscribe to Supply Chain Now on your favorite platform: https://supplychainnow.com/joinWork with us! Download Supply Chain Now's NEW Media Kit: https://bit.ly/3XH6OVkWEBINAR- From Compliance to Impact and Competitive Advantage: How to Decarbonize Your Supply Chain:

FedEx Freight is becoming a standalone public company, with its parent planning to spend $600 million to enhance its IT systems and infrastructure ahead of the separation . Consolidated adjusted earnings for FedEx were strong for the fiscal first quarter, exceeding expectations even though FedEx Freight revenue saw a 3.1% year-over-year decline. Hear the latest on the ongoing labor negotiations as Canada Post prepares to present a new contract offer to unionized mail carriers in an effort to break the existing stalemate. However, the Canadian Union of Postal Workers declined to immediately drop their limited strike action—a ban on delivering marketing mail—and asked why negotiations need to be postponed for another week after two years without new collective agreements. The morning minute also features the opening of the Savage Tooele Railroad in the northwest corridor of Utah, marking the state's first new short line railroad in over a century. This 11-mile route restores a former Union Pacific branch and serves the Lakeview Business Park, a project Governor Spencer Cox hailed as a major step forward for Utah's economy . Tune into FreightWaves TV later today for WHAT THE TRUCK?!? with Malcolm Harris at noon. You can also register for next month's State of Freight which will be live and in-person at the Future Freight Festival (F3). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Citing safety concerns and dedicated school days, the State Fair of Texas will not offer free admission to high school students this season. One free ticket will still be offered to pre-K through eighth grade students and all teachers within a 100-mile radius of Fair Park. In other news, OSHA called Union Pacific a “serial violator” of the Federal Railroad Safety Act, citing 20 past violations.  A Texas railroad engineer was awarded more than $300,000 in back wages, damages and attorney's fees after a federal investigation found Union Pacific unlawfully fired him. Also, Grocery Connect, a program started by Bonton Farms partnering with Kroger in late 2023, is expanding its pickup locations. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Alan Fisher started his career as a computer programmer. Early on, he was hired by the 1st or 2nd largest freight railroad in the world, Union Pacific. He describes their technology group as having a punk rock spirit, leaning towards building their own solutions over buying them, which he found great value in. Outside of tech, he has been married for 30 years, and has 3 kids. He is an avid runner, landing someplace between a marathon runner and a mile in the morning kinda guy. He also loves to read the classics, drawing inspiration from them, along with restoring old homes.Given his rich history in the rail industry, Alan has led the charge in growth, innovation, and most recently, logistics, analytics, and digital mine. As his company started to look to the future in how to solve the industry's most pressing problems, his team executed the acquisition of a portfolio of companies and products - driving by automated inspection.This is a creation story of KinetiX at Wabtec Corporation.SponsorsPaddle.comSema SoftwarePropelAuthPostmanMeilisearchMailtrap.TECH Domains (https://get.tech/codestory)Linkshttps://www.wabteccorp.com/https://www.wabteccorp.com/digital-intelligence/condition-monitoring/kinetix-inspection-technologieshttps://www.linkedin.com/in/alanjamiefisher/Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/code-story-insights-from-startup-tech-leaders/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Today's Headlines: Newly confirmed CDC director, Susan Monarez, was “officially removed” by HHS Secretary RFK Jr.—even though she insisted only the president can fire her, making The CDC mess even messier. Meanwhile, RFK Jr's ally Jim O'Neill has been tapped as acting director, prompting dozens of CDC staff in Atlanta to walk out in protest. Over at the Surface Transportation Board, Trump is trying to oust a Democratic member just as the board weighs a huge merger between Norfolk Southern and Union Pacific that could essentially create one mega-railroad controlling freight across the U.S. At the same time, Trump is also closing the “de minimis” loophole, meaning imported packages under $800 will now get slapped with tariffs ranging from 10–50%—and several countries, including Japan, Germany, and Mexico, say they'll stop sending packages here altogether. In Minneapolis, police gave more details about the horrific school shooting that killed two children and injured 18 others. Officials say the gunman plastered his weapons with over 100 hate slogans and had been openly posting about his plans for weeks, though law enforcement somehow missed it. And in DC, the infamous “sandwich thrower” who hurled lunch at a federal agent during Trump's new troop patrols has been charged only with a misdemeanor after prosecutors couldn't get a felony indictment. Truly, the first time a ham sandwich wasn't indicted. Resources/Articles mentioned in this episode: The Guardian: CDC in crisis: who are the top officials resigning or being forced out? | Trump administration NBC News: Trump administration live updates: White House taps Kennedy deputy as acting CDC director; Fed governor Lisa Cook sues over removal Axios: Massive CDC walkout erupts amid internal chaos Bloomberg: Trump Moves To Fire Rail Regulator WIRED: The Duty-Free Loophole Is Closing. What That Means for You—and Your Packages NBC News: Minneapolis shooting live updates: Shooter 'wanted to watch children suffer' as 120 shell casings are recovered, officials say AP News: DC man seen throwing sandwich at agent charged with misdemeanor after grand jury declines indictment Morning Announcements is produced by Sami Sage and edited by Grace Hernandez-Johnson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Railroad workers are sounding the alarm about the potentially catastrophic consequences of the proposed mega-merger of two of the nation's Class 1 freight rail companies. “Union Pacific said it would buy smaller rival Norfolk Southern in an $85-billion deal to create the country's first coast-to-coast freight rail operator,” Reuters reported in July. “If approved, the deal would be the largest-ever buyout in the sector.” If this giant merger goes through, what will it mean for railroad workers, customers, and for the general public? In this episode of Working People, we speak with a panel of six veteran railroaders and members of Railroad Workers United to get a workers' eye view of the proposed mega-merger and what it will mean for rail labor, the US supply chain, and for the public writ large.   Speakers: Ron Kaminkow is a member of Railroad Workers United, currently serving as a trustee, and he is also a member of the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen (BLET), Division 51 in Reno, Nevada. Kaminkow recently retired from Amtrak; prior to working in passenger rail, he worked on the freight rail system for Norfolk Southern and Conrail. Jeff Kurtz was a railroad engineer and union member for 40 years and is a member of Railroad Workers United. He served as a union officer most of his career, including eight years as president of BLET Local 391 and chairman of the BLET Iowa State Legislative Board, where he oversaw safety and legislative matters for the union in the state for four railroads for 10 years. He retired in 2014 and served as state representative for one term in the Iowa House after winning the 2018 election in his House district. Derek Masters is a member of Railroad Workers United and works as a conductor for a major Class 1 railroad, primarily in the Northeast. He is a member of SMART Transportation Division (SMART-TD). Matt Parker is a member of Railroad Workers United who works as a rank-and-file locomotive engineer, based in Nevada, with over 20 years of experience. Matt Weaver is a founding member of Railroad Workers United and has been a member of the Brotherhood of Maintenance of Way Employees (Teamsters) for 30 years. He serves as the BMWED legislative director for the state of Ohio. Nick Wurst currently serves as general secretary of Railroad Workers United who works as a freight conductor and locomotive engineer, based in Massachusetts. Wurst started working for the railroad in 2019 as an intermodal worker and member of the Transportation Communication Union (TCU/IAM) and is currently  a member of SMART-TD. Additional links/info: Railroad Workers United website, Facebook page, and X page Railroad Workers United press release: “Railroad worker group opposes Class One rail mergers” Michael Sainato, The Guardian, “Greater risk of toxic derailments if $85bn railroad merger is approved, warn unions” Sabrina Valle, Shivansh Tiwary, & David French, Reuters, “Union Pacific to reshape US freight rail with $85 billion deal for Norfolk” CNBC, “Union Pacific CEO Jim Vena & Norfolk Southern CEO Mark George on merger: Deal is 'great for America'” Featured Music: Jules Taylor, “Working People” Theme Song Credits: Audio Post-Production: Jules Taylor

Plus: President Trump fires a member of the railroad regulator that's evaluating a merger between Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern. And, BYD outsells Tesla in Europe. Azhar Sukri hosts. Sign up for WSJ's free What's News newsletter. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Nvidia's data center demand disappointed for the second quarter in a row, but Truist is looking at the long-term. Robert Primus, a member of the regulator examining the mega- merger between Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern, and one of the latest officials the White House has tried to fire, joins with his plans to fight back. Plus, will the Trump administration's closure of a key shipping loophole mean the end of super-cheap goods from China?

For the August 2025 episode, co-hosts Ted Stank and Tom Goldsby spoke with Doug Gray, VP of integrated supply chain for Trane Technologies, about driving resilience in the aftermarket business, embedding sustainability into strategic decision-making, and upskilling long-tenured employees to create value in a landscape of AI and automation. Gray, a member of the GSCI Advisory Board, joined Trane's executive leadership in 2024. In his role, he is accountable for the company's supply distribution, including SIOP, order management, quality and packaging, inventory management, and distribution center operations. A global climate innovator, the company provides heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems, refrigeration solutions, and connected building technologies, while maintaining a focus on reduced energy use and carbon emissions. Prior to Trane, Gray spent more than 16 years in various supply chain functions for Caterpillar Inc.  Listen in for insights on AI adoption, aftermarket performance, inventory management, and talent development. Plus, Ted and Tom dig into the latest news about U.S. tariffs and trade relationships, the proposed merger between Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern, and more. The episode was recorded during the GSCI Advisory Board meeting at the Haslam College of Business on August 20, 2025. Related links:  U.S. hikes steel, aluminum tariffs on imported appliances, railvars, and EV parts How Trump's tariffs, the AI boom, and the leadership shake-up at the Bureau of Labor Statistics will impact the economy Doug Gray named a 2025 Rainmaker by DC Velocity Learn about UT's new master's degree in global supply chain management Download our latest white paper on reshoring manufacturing and the talent skills gap for U.S. labor.  GSCI leaders on five points of consideration from the proposed UP-NS merger Save the date for the fall Supply Chain Forum, November 4–6 in Knoxville Download the white paper “Future-Ready Procurement” or read our blog series  Join the Advanced Supply Chain Collaborative, where forward-thinking leaders and companies, like Trane, explore advanced concepts in SCM with UT scholars. Sign up for one of our virtual credentials in Finance (Sept. 15-Nov. 16) and Procurement (Sept. 15–Nov. 16). Become a Text the Tennessee on Supply Chain Management team!

Railroad workers are sounding the alarm about the potentially catastrophic consequences of the proposed mega-merger of two of the nation's Class 1 freight rail companies. “Union Pacific said it would buy smaller rival Norfolk Southern in an $85-billion deal to create the country's first coast-to-coast freight rail operator,” Reuters reported in July. “If approved, the deal would be the largest-ever buyout in the sector.” If this giant merger goes through, what will it mean for railroad workers, customers, and for the general public? In this episode of Working People, we speak with a panel of six veteran railroaders and members of Railroad Workers United to get a workers' eye view of the proposed mega-merger and what it will mean for rail labor, the US supply chain, and for the public writ large.Speakers:Ron Kaminkow is a member of Railroad Workers United, currently serving as a trustee, and he is also a member of the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen (BLET), Division 51 in Reno, Nevada. Kaminkow recently retired from Amtrak; prior to working in passenger rail, he worked on the freight rail system for Norfolk Southern and Conrail.Jeff Kurtz was a railroad engineer and union member for 40 years and is a member of Railroad Workers United. He served as a union officer most of his career, including eight years as president of BLET Local 391 and chairman of the BLET Iowa State Legislative Board, where he oversaw safety and legislative matters for the union in the state for four railroads for 10 years. He retired in 2014 and served as state representative for one term in the Iowa House after winning the 2018 election in his House district.Derek Masters is a member of Railroad Workers United and works as a conductor for a major Class 1 railroad, primarily in the Northeast. He is a member of SMART Transportation Division (SMART-TD).Matt Parker is a member of Railroad Workers United who works as a rank-and-file locomotive engineer, based in Nevada, with over 20 years of experience.Matt Weaver is a founding member of Railroad Workers United and has been a member of the Brotherhood of Maintenance of Way Employees (Teamsters) for 30 years. He serves as the BMWED legislative director for the state of Ohio.Nick Wurst currently serves as general secretary of Railroad Workers United who works as a freight conductor and locomotive engineer, based in Massachusetts. Wurst started working for the railroad in 2019 as an intermodal worker and member of the Transportation Communication Union (TCU/IAM) and is currently  a member of SMART-TD.Additional links/info:Railroad Workers United website, Facebook page, and X pageRailroad Workers United press release: “Railroad worker group opposes Class One rail mergers”Michael Sainato, The Guardian, “Greater risk of toxic derailments if $85bn railroad merger is approved, warn unions”Sabrina Valle, Shivansh Tiwary, & David French, Reuters, “Union Pacific to reshape US freight rail with $85 billion deal for Norfolk”CNBC, “Union Pacific CEO Jim Vena & Norfolk Southern CEO Mark George on merger: Deal is 'great for America'”Featured Music:Jules Taylor, “Working People” Theme SongCredits:Audio Post-Production: Jules TaylorHelp us continue producing radically independent news and in-depth analysis by following us and becoming a monthly sustainer.Follow us on:Bluesky: @therealnews.comFacebook: The Real News NetworkTwitter: @TheRealNewsYouTube: @therealnewsInstagram: @therealnewsnetworkBecome a member and join the Supporters Club for The Real News Podcast today!

Berkshire Hathaway Chairman Warren Buffett announced his company will not bid for CSX or Norfolk Southern, opting instead for BNSF Railway to form closer alliances for growth synergies. This decision came after Union Pacific's $85 billion deal to acquire Norfolk Southern, despite Wall Street expectations for a competitive bid. The American Trucking Association (ATA) is facing a lawsuit from three former employees of its Transport Topics publication, alleging wrongful termination based on age and race discrimination. The plaintiffs claim their 2024 firings were age-motivated and done under the pretext of restructuring, with one plaintiff, Lorrie Grant, also alleging racial discrimination. Highway has launched its Trusted Freight Exchange (TFX), powered by Triumph, aiming to provide brokers and carriers a more secure alternative to traditional load boards and combat freight fraud. The TFX platform incorporates identity proofing to block anonymous traffic, broker-specific compliance rules, and credit assurance from Triumph, allowing carriers to confirm payment means before booking loads. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Host Michael Klein sits down with USA Rice Chair and Producers Rice Mill CEO Keith Glover to discuss trade, tariffs, export trends, market disruption, sustainability, and more. From reciprocal tariff policies to freight rail performance, Glover covers the challenges and opportunities confronting the U.S. rice industry. With special guest: Keith Glover, President & CEO Producers Rice Mill, Chair USA Rice Hosted by: Michael Klein

Two freight-rail giants could make history if their $85 billion merger gets approved. Union Pacific's proposed marriage with Norfolk Southern would create the first coast-to-coast rail network. So why hasn't it happened before now? Today on the show, the business of train mergers.  Related episodes: How Yellow wound up in the red For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org.  Fact-checking by Sierra Juarez. Music by Drop Electric. Find us: TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, Newsletter.  Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

It's a return to the “Lone Star” state and a visit with locomotive engineer Emory Lehman. We haven't talked to Emory for a few years since and decided it was about time to check up on what Emory‘s been doing. Things have changed quite a bit with his new job at the BNSF in Temple, Texas, a model railroader living across the street and his friend Mike making major changes to his layout. We also discuss the possible merger of the Norfolk Southern and Union Pacific railroads, and what are the possible effects it will have on railroading across America. Once again, it's a podcast with little or no direction, that's lots of fun with great discussion about everything under the sun. Enjoy!!

Several big M&A deals have been announced in the U.S. in the last few months, including a deal uniting Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern to create the first coast-to-coast rail operator in U.S. history. WSJ lead deals reporter Lauren Thomas discusses why we're seeing so many deals, what's in store for big tie-ups and where this M&A trend is headed. Alex Ossola hosts. Further Reading It's a Scorching Hot Summer for Deals on Wall Street. Vacation Can Wait.   Trump Fast-Tracks Deregulatory Push at Consumer-Protection Bureau    Top Justice Department Antitrust Officials Fired Amid Internal Feud Dealmakers Are Struggling to Make Sense of Trump's Antitrust Policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Bonus Episode for Aug. 1. Logistics companies that deliver the goods you use everyday are grappling with rapid shifts in freight demand due to President Trump's trade war. Warehouse operator Prologis, trucking giant J.B. Hunt and parcel carrier United Parcel Service are also still dealing with a yearslong slump in freight demand following the pandemic. Elsewhere in the industry, railroad giants Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern plan to merge in a deal that would create the first coast-to-coast rail operator in U.S. history. WSJ reporter Esther Fung discusses what companies are saying in earnings reports and analyst calls. Liz Young hosts this special bonus episode of What's News in Earnings, where we dig into companies' earnings reports and analyst calls to find out what's going on under the hood of the American economy.Sign up for the WSJ's free Markets A.M. newsletter. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

SUMMARY Ryan Alford breaks down 8 major stories shaping business and marketing—from Shopify’s AI assistant and a historic railroad merger to PepsiCo’s prebiotic cola and Nike’s rapid sneaker lab. Plus: TikTok’s 60-minute videos, Sprite x Jalen Hurts, and more. TAKEAWAYS Shopify's introduction of the AI assistant Sidekick and its impact on e-commerce. The merger between Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern, creating a coast-to-coast railroad network. PepsiCo's launch of a prebiotic cola aimed at health-conscious consumers. Live Nation Urban's new creator network for connecting brands with influencers. The increasing role of investors in the single-family housing market. Nike's Air Imagination Lab for rapid sneaker prototyping using 3D printing. Sprite's NFL marketing campaign featuring quarterback Jalen Hurts and player-led storytelling. TikTok's testing of longer video uploads, potentially challenging YouTube. The National Sports Collectors Convention in Chicago and its significance in the collectibles market. The overarching theme of reducing friction in business processes to enhance efficiency and customer satisfaction.  

Bonus Episode for Aug. 1. Logistics companies that deliver the goods you use everyday are grappling with rapid shifts in freight demand due to President Trump's trade war. Warehouse operator Prologis, trucking giant J.B. Hunt and parcel carrier United Parcel Service are also still dealing with a yearslong slump in freight demand following the pandemic. Elsewhere in the industry, railroad giants Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern plan to merge in a deal that would create the first coast-to-coast rail operator in U.S. history. WSJ reporter Esther Fung discusses what companies are saying in earnings reports and analyst calls. Liz Young hosts this special bonus episode of What's News in Earnings, where we dig into companies' earnings reports and analyst calls to find out what's going on under the hood of the American economy. Sign up for the WSJ's free Markets A.M. newsletter. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Pizza with THC… Monks on Meth… Harder than ever to cheat… More Millionaires than ever before… Email: ChewingTheFat@theblaze.com Blaze TV subscription deal-limited time / www.faucicoverup.com/jeffy Thieves found guilty in Germany… Vote on favorite stamp to come back… Union Pacific & Norfolk Southern merge… Boeing loses less… Stranger Things S5 finally… Who Died Today: Don Zimmerman 81 / Chris Willingham 74 / Frank Maffei 85 / Un-named 58 year old skydiver / Laura Dahlmeier 31 / Paloma Shemirani 23… Cat stealing clothes in new Zealand… Fugitive Water Monitor Lizard… Earthquake Tsunami recap... Loudest known sound on earth?... Neanderthals likely ate maggots… Joke of The Day… Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

P.M. Edition for July 29. The merger deal between Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern would create a single company controlling coast-to-coast rail shipments for the first time in U.S. history. WSJ reporter Esther Fung discusses why the deal isn't totally done yet, and why it's taken this long to get a coast-to-coast rail operator. Plus, JPMorgan Chase is nearing a deal to take over Apple's credit-card program. We hear from WSJ banking reporter AnnaMaria Andriotis about why the deal would be significant. And as tech companies build more electricity-hungry data centers to power artificial intelligence, utilities want the companies to pay more. Journal reporter Katherine Blunt describes how the dynamic is playing out across the U.S. Alex Ossola hosts. Sign up for the WSJ's free What's News newsletter. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Two behemoths of freight rail are joining forces: Union Pacific is acquiring Norfolk Southern for $85 billion. The deal creates the largest freight rail network in the country and will attract the attention of antitrust regulators. Also on the show: U.S.-China trade negotiators meet in Sweden for trade talks, and the U.S. sets a new deadline for Russia to end its war in Ukraine or face new economic sanctions.

Episode 634: Neal and Kyle discuss what a merger between Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern would mean for the entire US freight system. Then, many thought AI companies getting into the search business would scare Google…not so fast. Also, the clothing store American Eagle is joining the meme stock bandwagon thanks to Sydney Sweeney. Meanwhile, the USPS is turning 250 years old this week.  Gain the edge with Amazon Ads at advertising.amazon.com/startnow  Check out Per My Last Email: https://www.permylastemailshow.com/  Morning Brew Daily Puzzle: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1Yzrl1BJY2FAFwXBYtb0CEp8XQB2Y6mLdHkbq9Kb2Sz8/viewform?edit_requested=true  Subscribe to Morning Brew Daily for more of the news you need to start your day. Share the show with a friend, and leave us a review on your favorite podcast app. Listen to Morning Brew Daily Here:⁠ ⁠⁠https://www.swap.fm/l/mbd-note⁠⁠⁠  Watch Morning Brew Daily Here:⁠ ⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@MorningBrewDailyShow⁠ 00:00 - Chuck E. Cheese arrested 3:00 - Mega train merger 7:00 - Paramount merger approved 9:30 - Stock of the Week: Google 12:45 - Stock of the Week: American Eagle 16:35 - USPS celebrates its 250th birthday 20:20 - Sprint Finish!

Amazon new listening app... Uber with new plan using women… Candace Owens sued by Macrons…  www.keksi.com Promo code Jeffy18 ( limited time ) Chevron and Hess merge… Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern may merge?... Southwest Airlines changes... ChewingTheFat@theblaze.com Thanks to listeners around the world.. Coppola not done with Megalopolis… JLO done with Ben and lookin bidness... www.blazetv.com/jeffy Promo code Jeffy… Who Died Today: Rene Kirby 71 / Eliotte Heinz 22… Bryon Kohberger sentenced to life in prison… Sixteen-year-old arrested / Spirit Airlines / “I've got a bomb in my pocket” Joke of The Day / Real or Joke? You Decide… Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices