Industry Insights with Route Consultant

In this episode of Industry Insights with Route Consultant, we sit down with Alex Frum, owner of Alpha Kilo Logistics, to discuss the critical topic of safety in the logistics industry. Alex explains how FedEx tracks and grades contractor safety using the Safety Results Summary (SRS) and Safety Results Indicator (SRI).  He also covers the administrative classifications, impact of accidents and vio...

Expo 2026 is just around the corner, and we're gearing up by releasing a previous episode, all about what to expect at our biggest event of the year. In this episode, we dive deep into what to expect from the Route Consultant Expo 2026, featuring insights from experts Stephen Rhein and Butch Butler. Gain exclusive previews on sessions, trends, and strategies that will help contractors in the...

Join us on Industry Insights as we explore the future of the electric vehicle industry with guest John Harris, CEO of Harbinger Motors. Learn about the commitments major corporations are making to renewable energy and the importance of electric vehicles in the logistics sector. John sheds light on Harbinger's unique approach to building from the ground up, emphasizing affordability and reliab...

In this episode of Industry Insights with Route Consultant, we sit down with Chad Johnson, VP of Franchise Services at Flowers Foods. Join us as we explore the process and requirements for becoming an independent distributor with Flowers Foods, including initial steps, financing options, business plan development, and the support provided by Flowers.  Chad offers invaluable advice for both new and...

This week on Industry Insights with Route Consultant, we sit down with Alex Frum, owner of Alpha Kilo Logistics. Alex shares his approach to recruitment and employee retention through effective benefits and compensation packages. From 401k programs and healthcare to safety incentives and unique perks like personalized swag and holiday steaks, Alex reveals how these strategies have resulted in lowe...

Join us in this episode of Industry Insights with Route Consultant as we discuss the complexities of the logistics industry with industry veterans Dave and Amy Byers of Slicker Trucking. This episode covers the challenges faced by entrepreneurs in the logistics sector, the importance of maintaining a positive mindset, and the impact of emerging trends. Dave and Amy share their strategies for succe...

Welcome to Industry Insights with Route Consultant! This week, we explore one of the biggest expenses in the logistics industry: fuel. Annalee Cate, CEO of the RCPA Fuel Card, joins us to discuss effective fuel management strategies, common challenges, and how the RCPA Fuel Card can help save money and improve efficiency. Annalee offers valuable insights into the importance of security controls, b...

In this episode of Industry Insights with Route Consultant, Chad Johnson, VP of Franchise Services at Flowers Foods, shares his expertise on the longevity and growth of the bread industry. Discover Flowers Foods' strategic plans for expansion, the challenges of logistics in the bread market, and the opportunities for independent distributors to thrive. Learn about the importance of maintainin...

Welcome back to Industry Insights with Route Consultant. This week, we sit down with Kevin Brunner, founder and owner of Q Companies, to explore essential financial strategies for business mergers, acquisitions, and tax planning. Kevin shares his journey from mowing lawns and trading penny stocks to becoming a financial advisor with a proven track record. Learn about the importance of early exit p...

This week on Industry Insights with Route Consultant we’re unpacking the rollout of Picture Proof of Delivery (PPOD) in the FedEx space with Dave + Amy Byers — exploring its origins, key metrics, and operational challenges. Learn how PPOD is reshaping delivery standards across the industry, and gain practical strategies for maintaining efficiency and exceptional customer service as this new proces...

This week on Industry Insights with Route Consultant, we're exploring essential truck maintenance strategies with Alex Frum, owner of Alpha Kilo Logistics. Alex shares invaluable tips on preventative maintenance, building strong relationships with dealers, and managing breakdowns efficiently. Whether you're using OEM schedules, third-party software for tracking, or full-service leases, A...

In this episode of Industry Insights with Route Consultant, join Amy and Dave Byers of Slicker Trucking as they delve into the critical topic of accountability within the logistics industry. They discuss the importance of defining and communicating accountability, the distinction between job responsibilities and end results, and the cultural shifts that influence driver performance.  Learn about t...

Join us in this episode of Industry Insights as we delve into the complexities of recruiting within the logistics and transportation sector with Alex Frum, owner of Alpha Kilo Logistics. Alex shares his insights on the importance of effective recruiting strategies, the decision between outsourcing and internal recruitment, and the nuances of managing teams in diverse markets.  He also discusses th...

Join us on this week's episode of Industry Insights with Route Consultant as we explore the dynamic world of the bread industry with Chad Johnson, VP of Franchise Services at Flowers Foods. In this episode, we delve into the shifts in consumer preferences, particularly the growing demand for health-conscious products.  Chad shares Flowers Foods' strategies for staying relevant, including...

Join us on this episode of Industry Insights with Route Consultant as Amy and Dave Byers discuss the critical topic of drug testing for FedEx Ground employees and drivers. Learn about the mandatory drug testing practices, including pre-employment, random, and suspicion-based testing. They also explore the complexities of compliance with both federal and state regulations, the consequences of faili...

Join us this week as we sit down with Brian Haney, CEO of LifeCare EMS of Georgia. Brian takes us through his incredible journey from the early struggles of starting an EMS business to leading a successful multi-million dollar company. Learn about the challenges he faced, the strategies he employed, and the lessons he learned along the way. Discover how he navigated financial hurdles, focused on q...

Welcome to Industry Insights with Route Consultant! In this episode, we dive deep into what to expect from the Route Consultant Expo 2026, featuring insights from experts Stephen Rhein and Butch Butler. Gain exclusive previews on sessions, trends, and strategies that will help contractors in the logistics industry succeed. Whether you're in the FedEx, bread distribution, or other logistics sp...

Welcome to Industry Insights with Route Consultant! In this episode, we sit down with Grace Bay, CEO of Hello Truck Lease, to discuss how HTL is revolutionizing the last mile delivery space. Grace shares her journey from managing one of the largest FedEx contracting entities to founding HTL, a full-service lease program for FedEx contractors. We dive into the challenges of fleet management, the be...

In this episode of Industry Insights with Route Consultant, we dive deep into effective linehaul truck acquisition strategies and capital management with Alex Frum, owner of Alpha Kilo Logistics. Discover game-changing tips on selecting the right trucks, financing options, and maintenance strategies to boost your logistics business.  Learn about the nuances of leasing vs. financing, the importance...

This week, we're sitting down with ERC experts from Intero Capital Solutions - Gillian Gradidge, Darryl Steyn, and Dan Leathers. Discover how Intero Capital Solutions aids contractors and small business owners in accessing their Employee Retention Credit (ERC) funds, providing invaluable insights into financing strategies and unlocking trapped capital. Whether you're seeking immediate li...

This week on Industry Insights with Route Consultant, we sit down with Chad Johnson, VP of Franchise Services at Flowers Foods. With over 30 years in the baking industry, Chad shares his experiences from starting as a bread route operator to advancing into corporate roles. Chad discusses the independent distributor model, the evolution of Flowers Foods, and the critical role of communication in bu...

Join us this week on Industry Insights with Route Consultant as we delve into the intricacies of FedEx service metrics with Dave and Amy Byers from Slicker Trucking. In this episode, we explore what service means from a FedEx perspective and how it impacts contract management. Learn about the holistic approach of FedEx's MEDALs system that rates service, safety, productivity, and customer sat...

This week on Industry Insights with Route Consultant, we're in Atlanta, GA sitting down with Brian Haney, a serial entrepreneur and the owner of Trinity EMS Billing and Consultants. Brian shares his extraordinary journey from the corporate world to owning one of the fastest-growing EMS companies in the Southeast.  Brian delves into his early life, his transition from sales to the EMS industry...

This week, Alex Frum shares game-changing insights on scaling a logistics business. Learn about growth strategies, including acquisitions, organic growth through the FedEx point system, and overcoming challenges in the industry. Alex provides valuable tips on building solid relationships within the FedEx network and navigating the complexities of managing multiple trucks and runs. Whether you&apos...

This week on Industry Insights with Route Consultant, we sit down with Steve Crawford, a veteran in the trucking industry with over 50 years of experience. Steve shares his journey from growing up in a trucking family to becoming a successful entrepreneur in the logistics sector. He discusses the evolution of the trucking industry, the challenges faced, and the importance of adaptability in an eve...