Beyond the Load | Kyle Kottke: Leading Through Freight Market Changes

When the freight market gets interesting, experience matters. On this episode of Driving Forward, Nate Johnson is joined by Kyle Kottke, General Manager at Kottke Trucking, Inc., for a conversation on what it takes to lead through change in trucking. From navigating market volatility and payment pressure to protecting temperature-sensitive freight when conditions are anything but predictable, Kyle brings insight shaped by years in operations, negotiation, freight management, and financial strategy. We’ll talk about reliability when it counts, the difference between a carrier and a true partner, and the leadership lessons that come from building teams, serving drivers, and staying grounded when the industry keeps shifting. Tune in for a conversation grounded in real freight experience — from cold chain reliability and carrier partnerships to what it takes to lead through market volatility, protect shipper trust, and keep supply chains moving when conditions get complicated.