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Semi-RelatedFinding a 3PL fit | Matthew Hertz of Third PersonIn this episode of Semi-Related, host Jacob Eischen chats with Third Person founder and CEO Matt Hertz about his journey through the fast-paced world of e-commerce logistics. From cutting his teeth at Rent the Runway with nothing but a dry cleaner’s backroom and an Excel sheet, to scaling Birchbox through multiple 3PL transitions, Matt shares gritty, firsthand lessons in scaling operations and navigating the complexities of fulfillment.2025-06-181h 00

Semi-RelatedDigital defense | Joe Ohr & Artie Crawford of The NMFTAOn the latest episode of the Semi-Related Podcast, NMFTA COO Joe Ohr and Director of Cybersecurity Artie Crawford join host Jacob Eischen to discuss how dark-web ransomware rentals, AI-forged emails, and hacked telematics give thieves a back-door pass to your freight and how fleets can prepare a road-ready defense plan. They also preview the NMFTA’s Cybersecurity Conference this October and the no-cost tools rolling out to help carriers of every size stay a step ahead of the next breach.2025-05-301h 03

Semi-RelatedIntegration innovation | Raghav Midha of TerminalIn this episode of Semi-Related, Jacob Eischen sits down with Raghav Midha, co-founder and CEO of Terminal, to explore the journey of building a startup from scratch—and the critical role Terminal plays in modernizing logistics. Raghav shares how his background in fintech and his co-founder’s deep roots in trucking led them to discover a major gap in telematics integration.Hear how hundreds of interviews, late nights, and a mission to "make something people want" shaped Terminal’s unified API for telematics, fueling faster innovation across insurance, dispatching, TMS, and shipment visibility. From humble beginnings with a land...2025-04-2549 min

Semi-RelatedDriving change | Michael Campese of The DDC GroupIn this episode of Semi-Related, Chris Torrence welcomes longtime logistics veteran Michael Campese, now Chief Business Officer at DDC Group. With a career spanning over three decades—most of it spent rising through the ranks at Estes—Michael shares stories of getting his start in a warehouse, pursuing a career in LTL sales (yes, on purpose), and eventually pitching a business plan directly to Rob Estes that launched his corporate career.Chris and Michael dive into what’s changed—and what hasn’t—in transportation, why the industry remains behind in tech adoption, and how leaders can close the ga...2025-04-181h 38

Semi-RelatedRFPs refined | Eric Williams of Beagl TechnologiesIn this episode of the Semi-Related Podcast, host Jacob Eischen sits down with guest Eric Williams to dive deep into the world of freight, logistics, and procurement innovation. Eric shares his career journey—from his early days on the trading floor to his pivotal role in transforming how brokers, shippers, and carriers navigate pricing and capacity challenges.Listeners will gain insights into how traditional RFP processes can be streamlined and enhanced with technology, learn about the creation and evolution of his tool, Beagl, and hear firsthand stories of market shifts and dynamic decision-making in an ever-changing industry. With ca...2025-04-1045 min

Semi-RelatedSystems & solutions | Halit Uster of SMUDive into the fascinating world of operations research and network optimization in this episode of the Semi-Related Podcast, hosted by Jacob Eischen. Featuring special guest Dr. Halit Üster—a professor in Operations Research and Engineering Management at SMU—this conversation uncovers the intricacies of designing relay networks for the trucking industry, building biomass supply chains, and planning large-scale emergency evacuation systems. You’ll learn how systems thinking, data science, and stakeholder perspectives all combine to influence real-world decisions in fields ranging from agricultural logistics to disaster preparedness.Tune in to hear Dr. Üster’s journey from mechanical engineering in Turkey...2025-03-121h 02

Semi-RelatedFreight reimagined | Keith Peterson of NMFTAIn this episode of the Semi-Related Podcast by Optym, host Jacob Eischen sits down with Keith Peterson from the NMFTA to explore sweeping changes in freight classification and how the industry can prepare for the future . Keith delves into “Classification Reimagined,” shares insights on the Digital Standards Development Council’s work to standardize and streamline LTL and truckload processes, and highlights the importance of cybersecurity in keeping freight operations secure.Tune in to hear Keith’s personal journey through multiple generations of trucking, the critical role of density-based shipping, and how modern technology—from open-source APIs to ad...2025-02-2844 min

Semi-RelatedFreight's digital shift | Brian Thompson of SMC³LTL pricing and operations are evolving fast, and SMC3’s Brian Thompson is at the center of it. In this episode of Semi-Related, host Chris Torrence and Brian break down two of the biggest shifts happening in the industry right now: the NMFTA’s proposed classification changes and the push for standardized APIs.They discuss how the NMFTA Digital Standard Development Council is working to modernize data exchange, the impact of new freight classification changes, and how SMC³ is helping carriers, shippers, and 3PLs adopt digital-first solutions.If you’re in the freight industry, this is a mus...2025-02-171h 23

Semi-RelatedTariffs, tech, and truth | Eric Johnson of JOC.comIn this episode ofSemi-Related, hostChris Torrence sits down withEric Johnson, Senior Editor of Technology atJOC.com & S&P Global, to explore the intersection of journalism, supply chain, and technology. They discuss Eric’s journey into logistics reporting, the challenges of journalistic integrity in a fast-moving industry, and the evolving role of AI in freight.The conversation dives into the latest trade war developments, tariff policies, and their impact on shippers, carriers, and global supply chains. Plus, Eric shares insights on the explosion of AI-driven freight tech and whether the hype matches reality. They also touch on the ch...2025-02-121h 22

Semi-RelatedSmart scaling | Harman Cheema of Cheema FreightlinesOn this episode of Semi-Related, host Shaman Ahuja sits down with Harman Cheema, CEO of Cheema Freightlines, to discuss the journey of building and scaling a trucking company. Harman shares how he and his father grew their business from a single truck to a fleet of 500, navigating industry shifts, technological changes, and the ever-present challenge of driver retention. They dive into key milestones in Cheema Freightlines' evolution, including the transition from power-only to owning trailers, the growing pains of reaching 100+ trucks, and the importance of leadership at scale. Harman also talks about technology adoption in trucking—how EL...2025-02-0646 min

Semi-RelatedFrom dispatch to disruption | Nick Darman of AlvysIn this episode of the Semi-Related podcast, host Chris Torrence sits down with Nick Darman, co-founder and CEO of Alvys, to explore his journey from dispatching for his father’s trucking company to building a game-changing logistics platform. Nick shares lessons learned from launching a hybrid freight brokerage and carrier model, the challenges of scaling proprietary technology, and his vision for empowering small to mid-sized fleets with tools that simplify operations and drive growth. Tune in to hear insights on market trends, freight tech innovation, and what’s next for Alvys in 2025.2025-01-231h 10

Semi-RelatedPassion meets innovation | Bill Driegert of FlexportIn this episode of the ⁠Semi-Related Podcast⁠ by Optym, host Chris Torrence sits down with Bill Driegert, a seasoned leader in logistics, tech innovation, and operations. Join us for an engaging conversation as Bill shares his love for cars and music to his journey in becoming a pivotal figure in the freight and supply chain industries. Learn about Bill's early career at Frito-Lay, his role in transforming logistics at Amazon, and his involvement with innovative ventures like Coyote Logistics and Uber Freight. We explore the impact of technology in freight, the evolution of final-mile delivery, and the bala...2025-01-171h 24

Supply Chain ConnectionsLTL Technology Deep-dive with Lance HealyIn this episode, Lance Healy, Co-Founder and CEO of Freight Facts, joins Host Brian Glick, CEO of Chain.io, to discuss: Lance's journey into LTL technology The evolution of APIs in freight AI and automation in freight FreightFacts freight scoring The future of LTL and industry standards Balancing work and life as a founderLance Healy is the Co-Founder and CEO of Freight Facts, the industry’s first data driven shipper scorecard relating to LTL shipping location attributes and behaviors. Prior to Freight Facts, Lance served as the VP of Innovations at Optym, that focused on developing ap...2025-01-1427 min

Semi-RelatedKeys to carrier success | Chris Henry of KSMTAIn this episode, Chris Torrence hosts Chris Henry for an insightful discussion on what separates successful trucking carriers from the rest. They explore topics like using benchmarking to identify strengths and weaknesses, the importance of focusing on high-density lanes, and how aligning sales and operations can avoid costly inefficiencies. Chris shares lessons learned from years of working with carriers, highlighting how self-reflection, humility, and collaboration are traits that set profitable companies apart. From operational alignment to uncovering overlooked data points like time accuracy and load profitability, this conversation is packed with actionable strategies for carriers aiming to...2025-01-091h 04

Semi-RelatedPrivate fleet power | Tom Moore of the National Private Truck CouncilIn this episode of Semi-Related, host Jacob Eischen chats with Tom Moore of the National Private Truck Council (NPTC) to dive into the evolving world of private fleets. From the significant increase in outbound freight handled by private fleets to the changing expectations of drivers and the role of technology in fleet management, Tom shares data-driven insights and expert analysis. Highlights include: Key takeaways from the NPTC's annual benchmarking report. How private fleets are adapting to post-pandemic freight trends. The importance of aligning driver needs with operational goals. Emerging equipment and technology trends enhancing safety and...2025-01-031h 10

Semi-RelatedHumanizing hiring | Charlie Saffro of CS RecruitingIn this special year-end episode of Semi-Related⁠, Chris Torrence⁠ sits down with Charlie Saffro, founder and president of CS Recruiting, to discuss everything from personal branding and career transitions to the evolving dynamics of recruiting in the freight and logistics industries. As the holidays approach, Charlie shares insights into navigating the job market, fostering meaningful human connections in a tech-driven world, and why skills matter more than ever in today’s hiring landscape. With wit and wisdom, they explore the balance of automation and human touch in recruiting, the importance of cultivating a personal brand, and how companies a...2024-12-241h 03

Semi-RelatedShift to sustainability | Mike Robinson of The Eighth NotchIn this episode of ⁠Semi-Related⁠, host ⁠Chris Torrence⁠ sits down with Mike Robinson, founder of The Eighth Notch and retail industry veteran, to explore the intersection of consumer behavior, sustainability, and the logistics challenges of modern e-commerce. Mike shares his journey from a finance major dreaming of Wall Street to revolutionizing retail operations at companies like Macy's, where he helped grow their e-commerce channel from $700 million to $7 billion. The conversation dives into key insights about consumer expectations, reverse logistics, and the future of brick-and-mortar stores. Mike also explains how The 8th Notch is transforming last-mile delivery with innovati...2024-12-191h 15

Semi-RelatedBuilding trust with tech | Mark Funk of SPI LogisticsIn this episode of Semi-Related, host Chris Torrence sits down with Mark Funk, Director of Carrier Procurement at SPI Logistics, to explore the agent model in logistics and its impact on the industry. Mark shares insights from his extensive career, including his time at Sara Lee, TQL, and R&L Global Logistics, offering a unique perspective on freight brokerage, carrier relationships, and operational challenges. The discussion covers: The benefits and challenges of the agent model compared to traditional brokerage. The role of technology and AI in modernizing logistics operations. The growing importance of back-office support and...2024-12-061h 11

Innovation ObsessedBeyond Cargo: Protecting Drivers, Assets, and the Bottom Line with AIIn the first half of 2024, cargo theft in the United States surged by 49% compared to the same period in 2023, with an average loss per incident of $115,23, according to an August 2024 report by Overhaul. Freight hubs and urban centers like California and Texas remain hot spots, exposing long-standing gaps in supply chain security.Globally, cargo theft continues to pose significant challenges. In the Europe, Middle East, and Africa (EMEA) region, reported cargo thefts resulted in losses averaging €988K every 24 hours during the first half of 2023, totaling approximately €179 million over six months, according to TAPAEMEA.But the chal...2024-12-0526 min

Semi-RelatedDriven by data | Swan Webb of Results from DataIn this episode of Semi-Related, host Chris Torrence sits down with Swan Webb, Co-Founder of Results from Data, to explore the transformative role of data in the trucking industry. From his early career at BNSF Railway to his passion for empowering mid-size carriers with actionable insights, Swan shares his journey of blending analytics, optimization, and industry expertise to solve real-world challenges. Tune in to hear Swan's thoughts on: Why trucking needs to embrace analytics to drive efficiency. The evolution of AI, automation, and optimization tools in freight management. How data is reshaping decision-making processes The value...2024-11-221h 01

Meet Me for CoffeeSpecial Edition: JOC Inland 2024 - Day 2, Pt. 2Day 2 Part 2! Ari Ashe summarizes the sessions at JOC so far, and what you can gain from attending JOC, and then he provided me with an excellent conversation on the ILA port strikes. Chris from Optym shared his insights on how logistics providers of all type are thinking about automation, and what they are prioritizing right now to wrap up day 2! Stay tuned for one more day of content! #logistics #networking #podcast #inland24 #transportation #intermodal #drayage #ilastrike #ports #markets 2024-11-0825 min

Semi-RelatedLast mile lessons | James Nissenberg of Santa Monica SeafoodIn this episode of the Semi-Related Podcast, hosted by Chris Torrence, we dive into the multifaceted world of logistics with special guest James Nissenberg, Vice President of Logistics at Santa Monica Seafood. Known for his impressive career spanning asset-based transportation, logistics consulting, and even route planning in the aviation industry, James brings a wealth of knowledge and insights to the conversation. Listeners will get a comprehensive look into the complexities of last-mile logistics, especially in the B2B food distribution sector, and the unique challenges of maintaining a cold chain for perishable items. James...2024-11-081h 09

Semi-RelatedPrecision in place | Lucas Schorer of Kestrel InsightsIn this episode of the Semi-Related podcast, host Chris Torrence sits down with Lucas Schorer from Kestrel Insights to explore the intricacies of geofencing technology and its applications in trucking and logistics. They discuss Lucas's journey from studying mechanical engineering at Cal Poly to founding Kestrel Insights, where his team specializes in precision geofencing solutions. Lucas highlights the challenges and evolution of geofencing, the importance of accuracy to reduce false positives, and how Kestrel’s automated polygon geofences enhance operational efficiency. The conversation also touches on the industry's shift toward API integrations and the practical value of un...2024-10-251h 01

Semi-RelatedFeedback at work | Max Farrell of WorkHoundIn this episode of Semi-Related, host Chris Torrence sits down with Max Farrell, co-founder of WorkHound, to explore how companies can harness real-time feedback to improve employee retention and create a better workplace environment. Max shares the origins of WorkHound, which began in 2015 as a platform focused on employee engagement for frontline and distributed workers. The conversation dives into the challenges of high turnover in industries like trucking, where employees often feel unheard, and how WorkHound is helping businesses proactively address issues before they lead to attrition. Max explains the importance of making feedback accessible, the role...2024-10-1155 min

Semi-RelatedFrom excess to access | Spencer Ware of RepowrIn this episode of the Semi-Related podcast, host Chris Torrence sits down with Spencer Ware, co-founder of Repowr, to dive deep into shared assets and their growing impact on the trucking industry. Spencer shares insights from his journey—from his early days in commercial insurance to the creation of Repowr, a platform revolutionizing the use of idle trailers by connecting fleets and owner-operators with underutilized assets from larger carriers. Tune in as Spencer discusses how Repowr provides flexible, on-demand trailer access, allowing small fleets to scale and larger companies to monetize idle assets. Learn about the challenges th...2024-09-2759 min

Semi-RelatedDelivering decarbonization | Emily Phillips of National Home Delivery AssociationIn this episode of Semi-Related, Chris Torrence sits down with Emily Phillips, president of the National Home Delivery Association and founder of eMission Advisory. With a rich background in logistics and sustainability, Emily shares her journey from industrial engineering to leading sustainability efforts at XPO, before launching her own company focused on decarbonizing the transportation sector. The conversation covers the evolution of final mile delivery, the role of sustainability in transportation, and the impact of consumer demand on home delivery trends. Emily also offers insights into the future of...2024-09-131h 02

Semi-RelatedReducing friction in freight | Casey Larkin of FarelanesIn this episode of Semi-Related, host Chris Torrence sits down with Casey Larkin to dive into Casey's unique journey, from growing up under the influence of his father, a renowned industry leader, to carving out his own path in the freight and logistics space. They explore the complexities of the modern trucking industry, the challenges faced by smaller players, and the innovations Farelanes is bringing to the market to democratize pricing transparency and empower brokers and carriers alike. With a mix of personal anecdotes and professional insights, this conversation sheds light on the evolving landscape of freight and the...2024-09-0554 min

Semi-RelatedResearch's role in trucking | Tim Denoyer of ACT ResearchIn this episode, Chris Torrence sits down with Tim Denoyer, VP and Senior Analyst at ACT Research, to explore key trends and challenges in the trucking and logistics industry. They dive into topics such as overcapacity, regulatory changes, electrification, and trailer pool optimization. Tim shares his expertise on the surprising challenges of implementing speed limiters, the critical role of telematics, and the financial pressures on small fleets and owner-operators. Gain valuable insights on leveraging data for better decision-making and the potential of new technologies to reshape the industry. This episode offers a comprehensive look at...2024-08-021h 10

Semi-RelatedThe TMS over time | Nate Johnson of GLCSIn this episode of "Semi-Related," host Chris Torrence sits down with Nate Johnson, founder of GLCS, to explore the evolving landscape of the trucking industry. From the integration of advanced technologies and AI to the impact of compliance and regulatory changes, Nate shares his extensive knowledge and insights on the challenges and opportunities facing modern trucking companies. The conversation delves into the importance of change management, the future role of planners and dispatchers, and the critical balance of people, processes, and technology. Whether you're a seasoned industry professional or...2024-07-261h 18

FreightCastsWHAT THE TRUCK?!? EP736 What Cybertruck is teaching a sustainability director about electrifying fleetsOn Episode 736 of WHAT THE TRUCK?!?, Dooner is coming to you live from FreightWaves’ Enterprise Fleet Summit. Covenant’s Matt McLelland stops by the studio to share impressions of his new Cybertruck and to let us know what it is teaching him about electrifying fleets.Estes and Optym partnered on LTL optimization and solutions for a few years now. Now, Kory Harb from Optym and Joshua Newton from Estes talk about how to work with vendors as long-term partners. Tag-N-Trac uses labels to create real-t...2024-07-1746 min

WHAT THE TRUCK?!?What Cybertruck is teaching a sustainability director about electrifying fleetsOn Episode 736 of WHAT THE TRUCK?!?, Dooner is coming to you live from FreightWaves’ Enterprise Fleet Summit. Covenant’s Matt McLelland stops by the studio to share impressions of his new Cybertruck and to let us know what it is teaching him about electrifying fleets.Estes and Optym partnered on LTL optimization and solutions for a few years now. Now, Kory Harb from Optym and Joshua Newton from Estes talk about how to work with vendors as long-term partners. Tag-N-Trac uses labels to create real-t...2024-07-1746 min

Semi-RelatedLegacy, leadership, and the road ahead | Cole Stevens of Stevens TruckingIn this episode, Chris Torrence sits down with Cole Stevens, the Chief Strategy Officer of Stevens Trucking, to discuss the evolving role of a CSO and the rich history of Stevens Trucking. Starting as a family business in the oil field industry, Stevens Trucking has grown into a successful enterprise. Cole shares insights into their journey, attributing their success to a strong work ethic, adaptability, and meticulous planning. The conversation delves into the challenges faced by truck drivers, including distracted driving and increasing job demands. Cole and Chris emphasize the often underappreciated contributions of supply chain workers...2024-07-101h 34

Semi-RelatedLiability in the tech age | Armchair Attorney Matthew LefflerJoin Chris Torrence and Matthew Leffler, the 'Armchair Attorney,' as Leffler shares his journey from growing up in a trucking family to becoming a lawyer for the industry. Matthew reveals the challenges of working in insurance defense for catastrophic accidents, highlighting the underinsured and unsafe state of many commercial vehicles. He calls for increased insurance coverage and improved safety standards. In this episode, Matthew discusses the principal themes of transportation: labor, assets, maintenance, tires, and insurance. He explores the industry's future, focusing on the four super trends—connected, autonomous, shared, and electric—and the rise of autonomous trucks. Matt...2024-06-271h 11

The Freight Coach Podcast961. Chris TorrenceAcquire tons of knowledge in technology utilization from today’s episode with Chris Torrence! Chris joins the show to cover the importance of maintaining a neutral mindset in the freight industry, the role of AI in automation and augmentation, the significance of human-to-human interaction, Optum's focus on optimization, and the challenges in technology adoption, data fragmentation, and standardization. There’s more to learn from our conversation, so don’t miss out! About Chris Torrence A Visionary Leader in Transportation and Logistics Technology, Chris Torrence serves as the Chief Strategy Officer at Optym, I...2024-06-2552 min

Semi-RelatedFrom NFL to entrepreneur | Desmond Clark of Bear Down LogisticsIn this captivating episode of Semi-Related, Chris Torrence sits down with former NFL star Desmond Clark for an insightful and engaging conversation. They delve into the future of college sports conferences, exploring the impact of the transfer portal and NIL on collegiate sports. Desmond offers a unique perspective on the financial dynamics of college athletics and the intrinsic value of athletes beyond their performance on the field. Desmond also opens up about his journey after hanging up his cleats, sharing his determination to build a successful business and the challenges he faced in transitioning from the NFL...2024-06-201h 00

Semi-RelatedPracticing candor in freight | Nicole Glenn of Candor ExpediteCandor Expedite CEO and Founder Nicole Glenn sits down with Optym Chief Strategy Officer Chris Torrence for an all-encompassing discussion on Nicole's entrance into logistics, personal and team growth, and reflections on the lessons learned along the way.2024-05-2947 min

Modern Industrialist Podcast14. Human-centered tech optimization and automation with Optym’s Chris TorrenceTransportation is a uniquely physical business– it’s not going to be taken over by AI any time soon. But that doesn’t mean that AI or other tech innovations can’t be genuinely helpful for workers and management. Today, Chris Torrence, Chief Strategy Officer from Optym joins us to talk about how tech automation and optimization should work.We have a great conversation about how tech shouldn’t be an additional burden on operators. And, it’s not a fix for a broken process. The point of tech innovation for companies is to make everyone’s lives easier...2024-05-1451 min

Driving Forward PodcastS2E13 Driving Forward Podcast - Live from TCA Truckload 2024 Join Nate and Bain live at the TCA Truckload 2024 conference from the GLCS booth live. We'll have several guests come by to chat including: 00:00:00 TCA Profitability Program Managing Director Jack Porter and Program Manager Shepard Dunn. 00:15:56 Pedigree Technologies CEO John Elsner and VP Industry Relations Rocco Marrari 00:28:30 Optym's Chris Torrence and Qued's Tom Curee 00:40:55 Wreaths Across America Director of Transportation and Industry Relations Courtney George Join us every day of the conference as we go live with guest to discuss new trends in the industry, 2024-04-0557 min

Semi-RelatedThe power of power only | Shannon Breen of FreightVanaShannon Breen, CEO of FreightVana, shares his journey to entering the trucking and logistics industry, emphasizing the value of developing soft skills, authenticity, and connecting with people. With Optym Chief Strategy Officer Chris Torrence, Breen discusses the decision to start FreightVana and the challenges and progress the company has made in a short time. He also introduces the concept of power-only trailer pool networks as a differentiating approach in the industry. While they acknowledge the importance of live load and unload operations in certain segments, they discuss how drop and hook networks, and shared trailer pools are the future...2024-04-0356 min

In the Hot Seat | The Business of TransportationThe Evolution of Technology in FreightTechIn this episode of The Hot Seat, we interview Chris Torrance, Chief Strategy Officer of Optym. We cover: - How technology has evolved in freight over the last 20 years. - Ways to improve efficiency and reduce human error. - The harmony of AI and Humans in the T&L space. - M&A in Freight Tech. ___ Are you looking to buy or sell a transportation business? We can help. Learn More 👉 https://www.thetenneygroup.com --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/the-hot-seat-tenney-group/message 2024-03-2627 min

Semi-RelatedThe truth behind cost-per-hire | Dave RenfrewJacob Eischen and Dave Renfrew, partner at Recruit-Hire-Retain, provide valuable advice on building a recruitment machine and optimizing the onboarding process. Renfrew reflects on his extensive experience in the trucking and logistics industry, sharing insights on building a trucking company, hiring thousands of drivers, and understanding the market and recruitment strategies. Plus, he emphasizes the importance of building trust with drivers and implementing retention programs, which cross silos within organizations. Chapters: 0:00 – Introduction 0:33 – About Recruit-Hire-Retain 2:04 – Dave's Background in Trucking and Logistics 7:10 – Lessons Learned from Building a Trucking Company and Hiring Thousands of Drivers 11:51 – Understanding the Market and Recruitment Strategies 16:55 – Different Types of Trucking...2024-03-1248 min

Semi-RelatedBuilding a skill stack for success | Thomas Wasson of FreightWavesThomas Wasson shares his journey in the transportation and logistics industry, starting from his entry-level role as a dispatcher to his current position as Enterprise Trucking Carrier Expert at FreightWaves with Jacob Eischen on another episode of the Semi-Related Podcast. Wasson discusses the challenges and lessons he learned along the way, including the importance of managing relationships, balancing emotional and analytical skills, and prioritizing tasks. Thomas also highlights the significance of understanding the needs of drivers and customers, as well as the value of building trust and maintaining open communication within the organization and more. ...2024-02-291h 42

Semi-RelatedThe power of benchmarking | Amanda Pearson of TCASummary In this episode, Jacob Eischen interviews Amanda Pearson, the profitability program facilitator for the TCA. They discuss the benchmarking program and how it helps carriers improve their operations and profitability. Amanda explains the structure and meetings of the groups, highlighting the importance of trust and collaboration among members. She shares success stories and learnings from the program, including how carriers have identified and addressed issues in their operations. Amanda also discusses the key traits of high-performing carriers and offers tips for successful growth. The conversation covers topics such as innovation, market cycles, and hot button issues...2024-02-1647 min

Driving Forward PodcastS2E6 Driving Forward Live From ManifestThe Driving Forward Podcast broadcasted live at Manifest with our GLCS hosts Nate Johnson and Robert Bain along with these fabulous guests: Chris Torrence, Optym Ilona Orsborn, Zelh Logistics Pablo Palafox , Happyrobot Jennie Malafarina , Virago Marketing 2024-02-1651 min

Semi-RelatedGrowing the freight community | Chris Thomas of Autumn TransportIn this episode, Jacob Eischen interviews Chris Thomas, also known as the Indie Trucker. They discuss Chris's background in trucking and his involvement in the freight community. Chris shares his experiences and insights on broker-carrier relationships, being the voice of the driver, and passing on knowledge to the next generation. They also touch on topics such as professionalism in customer interactions, understanding market trends, and the future of trucking, including the potential impact of autonomous trucks. Takeaways Building relationships and being a positive voice in the trucking industry is important. Trucking is a...2024-02-1237 min

Semi-RelatedLessons in fleet management | Tony Eiermann of SYCS TruckingSummary In this episode of the Semi-Related Podcast, Tony Eiermann shares his experience and insights in fleet management. Eiermann also explains how he became an asset manager and the challenges and opportunities that came with it. He highlights the importance of learning and mentoring in the trucking industry. Tony then talks about managing a large fleet and maximizing the life of assets. He emphasizes the role of data and communication in fleet management and the need for strong relationships for success. Takeaways Fleet management often involves transitioning from other roles within...2024-02-0937 min

FreightWaves NOWFreight Tech investment becoming more strategicGrace Sharkey - Staff Writer - FreightWaves - Lansing, MI https://www.freightwaves.com/news/optym-lands-strategic-investment-from-industry-backer-venture-53 2024-01-2507 min

Semi-RelatedBuilding an award-winning driver support system | Phil Wilt of American Central TransportPresident and COO Phil Wilt of American Central Transport, a six-time recipient of the Best Fleet to Drive For award, delves into the essentials of constructing an award-winning driver support system.2024-01-0558 min

Semi-RelatedBuilding resilient LTL | Curtis Garrett of Understand LTLJoin Curtis Garrett on the Semi-Related Podcast by Optym as he dives into the LTL sector's latest trends, challenges and more.2023-12-1750 min

Semi-RelatedTruck driver health | Mark Manera of Supply Chain FitnessMark Manera, the Founder & CEO of Supply Chain Fitness, discusses truck driver health with Jacob Eischen on the Semi-Related podcast.2023-12-0841 min

Semi-RelatedTokenization in logistics | Todd Haselhorst of HEALE LabsTodd Haselhorst, the CEO and Founder of HEALE Labs discusses IoT and tokenization’s role in revolutionizing logistics.2023-12-0151 min

Semi-RelatedDriver recruitment and retention trends | Priscilla Peters and Scott DismukeConversion Interactive Agency’s Priscilla Peters and PDA’s Scott Dismuke discuss driver recruitment and retention in the trucking industry.2023-11-241h 06

Semi-RelatedWeather forecasting’s role in logistics | Scott Pecoriello of WeatherOpticsWeatherOptics’ Scott Pecoriello offers insights on how accurate weather forecasting can benefit route optimization in logistics.2023-11-1733 min

Semi-RelatedHow transportation supports national unity | Courtney George of Wreaths Across AmericaWreath’s Across America’s Courtney George discusses women in trucking, and honoring veterans on the Semi-Related podcast.2023-11-1035 min

Semi-RelatedThe seasonality of trucking and its effects on truckers | Dean Croke of DATDAT Freight and Analytics' Dean Croke joins the conversation on Semi-Related to discuss the seasonality of trucking and its impact on truckers.2023-10-1144 min

Semi-RelatedNavigating the supply chain | Bart De Muynck of Better Supply ChainsOptym’s Chris Torrence discusses navigating the supply chain with logistics strategic advisor Bart De Muynck on Semi-Related.2023-10-0557 min

Semi-RelatedMaking LTL shipping frictionless | Todd Florence of Estes Express LinesTodd Florence, CIO of Estes Express Lines, joins Semi-Related’s Chris Torrence to discuss making LTL shipping frictionless.2023-09-3057 min

Semi-RelatedFrom 'one size fits all' to collaborative solutions | Jeff Graan of TurvoChris Torrence and Jeff Graan discuss key trends in logistics and freight on this episode of Semi-Related.2023-09-1948 min $The Bootstrapper\'s Guide to Logistics$ The Bootstrapper's Guide to LogisticsThe Head & the Heart with Ravi & Shaman AhujaThink you know big data?This week we explore the world of AI-powered transportation with Ravi Ahuja, the founder and CEO of Optym, and Shaman Ahuja, the Deputy CEO. Ravi shares his journey from academia to entrepreneurship and explains how it can take millions of data points to solve certain supply chain problems.Shaman shares how he has been shaped by his father's experiences and his own pursuit of success while exploring the what the future may look like as he takes over the family business one day.Working as a father-son duo...2023-09-1437 min

FreightWaves NOWOptym expands partnership with Estes Express for LTL optimizationGrace Sharkey - Point of Sale Community - FreightWaves - Lansing, MI https://www.freightwaves.com/news/optym-expands-partnership-with-estes-express-for-ltl-optimization 2023-08-2310 min

WHAT THE TRUCK?!?Yellow, goodbye?On today’s episode of WHAT THE TRUCK?!? Dooner is talking to FreightWaves’ Rachel Premack about the drama over at Yellow. The carrier has told the Teamsters it will be out of money by August, but the union says it’s not going to bail the company out again. We’ll find out if Yellow can survive and what will be left of it. Remcoda CEO Remy Garson has doubled down on nearshoring. We’ll learn about its recent strategic acquisition in Colombia and how he thinks nearshoring will reshape supply chains.O...2023-06-1456 min

3PL LiveLTL Innovation with Lance HealyA new 3PL Live episode is out now with Lance Healy, VP of LTL Innovations at Optym and one of the Co-Founders of Banyan Technology. Healy started creating one of the first rating engines in the LTL markets and now works on making LTL carriers more efficient through machine learning and AI. We hope you enjoy the conversation. 3PL Systems Team 2023-01-2137 min

The Freight Coach Podcast#229 - Lance HealyLance Healy is a serial entrepreneur having founded and sold Banyan Technology, and is currently working with Optym. This episode was a heavy conversation on the realities of founding and bootstrapping companies! At Optym, we don’t develop better solutions to old problems. We develop new solutions to problems that have never been solved before. Optym provides best-in-class, new-generation automation and optimization software to transportation and logistics companies in the airline, railroad, trucking and mining industries. Our software solutions automate decisions and empower businesses. Optym leverages operations research, computer and data science and industry-specific knowledge to help businesses like So...2022-11-1544 min

Standing Out: A Podcast About Sales, Marketing and LeadershipStanding Out - Episode 178 with guest Lance HealyOn Episode 178 of Standing Out, Lance Healy of Optym and Trey talk about his mission to optimize the LTL industry through technology, what he learned as a tech founder, and where he sees the industry heading from an LTL perspective. Many thanks to our sponsor, TAFS, the good guys in freight factoring. To learn more and get started click HERE. Standing Out is a daily sale, marketing & leadership podcast powered by BETA Consulting Group, created to highlight best practices from industry leaders with incredible experience and insights! The goal is to entertain, educate & inspire individuals & comp...2022-11-1430 min