Driven Too Far: The Truth About Trucking

Most drivers get mesmerized by a shiny, high-rate load—like a $99 per mile offer—and instantly think they've hit the jackpot. But behind that eye-catching number lies a hidden trap that can turn profitable freight into a costly mistake. If you've ever wondered whether to chase the hottest rates or play it smart, this episode will change your perspective. On this episode of Driven Too Far, Andrew r...

When drivers and safety teams are making crucial decisions without all the facts, it can lead to costly misunderstandings. What if a simple mudflap was mistaken for a leaning trailer, and an unverified opinion could damage trust or derail safety efforts? Andrew Winkler reveals the overlooked power of influence, the importance of facts over assumptions, and how everyone in your organization is an i...

Most drivers underestimate what it takes to move from behind the wheel to leading the fleet. In this episode, Andrew Naughton shares how he went from flatbed driver to safety manager, and what surprised him most about stepping into the office, from new technology and driver expectations to the mindset shift required for leadership. He also breaks down the realities of trucking management, includin...

Are you quietly killing your own paycheck?  In this episode of  Driven Too Far , host Andrew Winkler breaks down the hidden income leaks that quietly cost truck drivers thousands of dollars every year. Andrew shares insights from an income simulator he built in-house to help drivers identify where their paychecks are shrinking — and what to do about it. The episode covers common culprits like unne...

In this episode of Driven Too Far, host Andrew Winkler breaks down one of the most misunderstood topics in trucking: fuel surcharge programs. The conversation covers how fuel surcharges work, why they exist, and how they help protect carriers and owner-operators from rising diesel costs. Andrew also explains the difference between contract freight and broker freight, why separating linehaul, acces...

Why are trucking companies switching to automatic transmissions? A lot of old school drivers prefer and stand by manual transmissions and refuse the ways of automation. Andrew shows us a look behind the scenes as the trucking industry continues to find itself in the midst of a never-ending tug of war between manual and automatic transmissions. He talks about the advantages of automatic transmissio...

What's the real cost of changing jobs? The offers out there seem fantastic, but are they worth the move? Making the decision to change jobs is a big one. Not only are there financial considerations to take into account, but other factors such as job satisfaction and stability must be weighed in. Andrew takes an in depth look at these elements that go into the cost of changing jobs. From the risk o...

What kind of company do you want to work for? Is your safety department to blame for high driver turnover? Some recent reports say yes, but is that really the whole story? In the episode Andrew takes an in-depth look at the driver turnover problem and some potential solutions to retain top talent and meet safety standards. So tune in and if safety truly is to blame for truck driver turnover. Learn...

  How would you like to make a six figure income as a company driver? I'm here today to tell you that you can, if you want, and I can show you how. There are so many things you can do every week to get that paycheck you want. In this episode learn what steps you can take to make six figures as a company driver.  To learn more about a career in trucking and see how you can make six figures visit Ch...

On this episode, Andrew Winkler is joined by Kent Grisham of the Nebraska Trucking Association (NTA) to discuss how state associations are essential to trucking success. They reveal the aggressive outreach programs, significant scholarship funding (103 scholarships in 2024!), and special programs for farm and ranch workers that are actively bringing the next generation into dynamic careers in driv...

At Husker Harvest Days 2025, Andrew Winkler sits down with Scott Kulhanek of Sahling Kenworth and James from Chief Carriers to unpack Chief's newest fleet addition: fifteen Kenworth T680 flat-top sleepers, custom-spec'd for real drivers with chrome, stacks, and smart fuel-saving choices. They dig into 2025 emissions chatter—DEF/derate changes, EPA vs. CARB timelines—and how over-the-air flashes an...

Why are some OTR drivers making $115K while others are stuck at $85K at the same company? This episode, inspired by leadership coach Brian Kyte, challenges drivers to look inward. The money you make is a direct result of your personal standards and behaviors. We break down the formula: if you want a championship salary, you must have championship habits—from maximizing road time and managing home...

Are you a veteran looking for your next career? This episode, featuring Staff Sergeant Chris Chambers of the U.S. Air Force and recruiter Mandee Lade, breaks down how you can use the Post-9/11 GI Bill to transition into trucking or diesel technology. Learn how the program provides not only training but also a monthly housing allowance, allowing you to learn a valuable trade without worrying about...

Why hold onto an aging truck when its maintenance costs are about to explode? This episode challenges the emotional desire to "own the title" and presents a rational, numbers-driven view of truck ownership. We break down the costly reality of mechanical failures after year four, the impact of vehicle downtime on your income, and why staying in a new, warrantied, leased truck is the smarter financi...

Why do some trucking companies feel different than others, even with the same rulebook? The answer is culture, and in this episode, we're talking about safety culture. We'll distinguish between simple compliance and a true commitment to safety, sharing insights from an industry leader, Bison Transport. Learn how focusing on a driver-first mindset, not just policies, is the secret to getting people...

What happens when your truck's DEF system fails on the road? A new EPA rule is changing the game. This episode explains the recent policy shift that aims to make DEF system malfunctions safer, giving drivers more time to get repairs without sudden, dangerous shutdowns. We'll break down the new staged approach to derates and discuss how it impacts both new and existing trucks. Check us out at Chief...

Ever wonder why your company keeps sending you to places you'd rather not go? This episode reveals the strategic decisions behind a carrier's chosen traffic lanes. It's not a travel agency; it's a carefully crafted plan to secure repeatable, profitable freight. We'll dive into the difference between contract and spot freight and explain why hubs like Chicago are essential for the company's bottom...

A recent visa freeze for foreign truck drivers, sparked by a fatal accident in Florida, could have major repercussions for the trucking industry. This episode dives into the controversy, exploring the potential for this policy to balance the oversupply of trucks and depressed freight rates. We'll examine the safety issues surrounding foreign drivers who may not understand English or road signs and...

Tired of unexpected breakdowns and costly delays? This episode, with maintenance expert James Sugrue, reveals the critical difference between proactive maintenance and reactive repairs. Learn how a simple pre-trip inspection can save you thousands and prevent career-damaging downtime. Discover how technology, from connected sensors to data analysis, helps professional fleets stay ahead of problems...

Making the difficult decision to transition from an owner-operator back to a company driver requires a change in mindset. This episode explores the challenges and the humbling experience of this reverse transition. It offers a candid discussion on why it's crucial to leave old failures behind, drop the "know-it-all" attitude, and embrace a new company's systems with humility and curiosity. Learn h...

This podcast is produced by Two Brothers Creative .

Why do some drivers with perfect records fail to perform on the job? This episode dives into the crucial role of personal accountability in a driver's success. Learn why a clean record isn't enough and how daily choices—from managing your logbook to leaving on time—directly impact your paycheck and career. Discover how taking ownership of your actions is the first step toward achieving your income...

Why do some trucking companies excel at keeping their best drivers while others struggle? This episode reveals the core desires of truck drivers, moving beyond just cents per mile. Based on recent surveys, discover the critical importance of consistent miles, transparent communication, and a supportive company culture. Learn what truly motivates drivers to stay, and how understanding these needs c...

Ever wonder why dispatch takes so long to get you a load? This episode reveals the complex, behind-the-scenes processes involved in booking freight. From vetting brokers and negotiating rates to handling intricate paperwork and avoiding hidden fees, discover the many steps your dispatch team manages to secure profitable and reliable loads. Understand why efficiency is a constant pursuit and what d...

Feeling the pinch in the current freight market? This episode uncovers a thriving segment of the trucking industry: oversized and heavy haul freight. Learn how specializing in this niche can significantly boost your income and offer stability, even when standard loads are sluggish. Discover what it takes to enter this specialized field and why it offers greater financial reward and consistent dema...