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by Bennett Family of Companies
Transportation Nation is brought to you by the Bennett Family of Companies and discusses all things in the transportation and logistics industry.
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- 3 weeks ago25 min
Trucking Nation Unites: Inside MATS, Honoring Heroes & Solving Parking
The engine of America’s economy isn’t just the freight—it’s the unwavering pride and purpose carried by those behind the wheel.In this inspiring episode of Transportation Nation, we take you straight to the heart of the Mid-America Trucking Show, where the lights, roaring engines, and camaraderie highlight just how vital the trucking industry is to our nation’s success. Through engaging conversations and real stories, this episode uncovers the human spirit, pride, and community driving America's trucks—and the country itself—forward.You’ll meet passionate guests including Jerry from Patriot Mobile, who shares how his company supports both the industry and veteran causes; Brett from Truck Parking Club, offering an inside look into one of trucking’s most pressing challenges—safe, reliable truck parking; and several dedicated truck builders and drivers who keep the highways humming and the stories flowing.Highlights include:An inside look at the emotional and patriotic Wreaths Across America convoy and the unique ways companies like Bennett are giving back.An eye-opening discussion on the nationwide shortage of truck parking, why it matters, and innovative solutions in the works.Firsthand insights from drivers and custom truck builders who reveal what it really takes to keep America moving—and why pride and care in every vehicle matter more than ever.Whether you’re in the industry or simply curious about the stories behind every shipment and every mile, this episode reminds us: Trucking isn’t just a job—it’s a calling and a community.Subscribe now for more powerful conversations, behind-the-scenes stories, and a closer look at the people and innovations fueling America’s highways.CHAPTERS:00:16 The Power Behind the Trucking Industry01:44 Honoring Fallen Soldiers with Wreaths Across America03:24 Bennett’s Full-Circle Involvement in National Remembrance04:12 Personal Stories: Impact on Families of the Fallen06:07 The Truck Parking Crisis Explained09:06 Solutions and Federal Action on Truck Parking12:07 From Truck Driver to Custom Truck Builder14:42 “Hater Maid” and Truck Show Culture16:16 The Value of Pride in Truck Ownership18:16 Building Trucks for National Championship Shows19:54 Faith, Redemption, and the Birth of Lonesome Road Radio25:10 Trucking Is a Calling, Not Just a Job
- May 5, 202620 min
Inside the 2024 Mid America Truck Show: Epic Rigs, Stories & Surprises!
Experience the pulse of America’s trucking industry like never before—step inside the energy, pride, and powerhouse stories of the Mid America Trucking Show (MATS) in Louisville, KY.In this episode, join Caitlyn Folks and Lee Gentry as they take you on a lively tour of MATS, where drivers, families, and companies from all corners come together to celebrate life on the road. Discover why MATS isn’t just another event—it’s a milestone moment for the trucking community, bringing together both veterans and newcomers in an unforgettable atmosphere.Meet notable guests like Ryan Dubrow of “Playing With Fire,” who shares the adrenaline and innovation of competitive truck and tractor pulling, and Evan, widely dubbed “the truck show guy,” whose detailing expertise keeps the show’s sharpest rigs shining. Hear from Bill Trotter, Vice President of Capacity at Bennett, on how these events anchor the company’s culture and recruiting, along with Emily, who offers a heartfelt look at what makes Bennett’s community truly special.Key moments you won’t want to miss:- The jaw-dropping specs of a 5,000-horsepower semi and what it takes to keep those engines roaring- An inside look at how the Bennett team and their partners elevate the show—from recruiting new drivers to supporting long-standing family traditions - Candid reflections on what sets Bennett apart: real connection, family vibes, and memorable moments (including a brand new trucking anthem)- Whether you’re a driver, an industry insider, or simply fascinated by the American trucking scene, this episode delivers a front-row seat to the spectacle and spirit of MATS.Subscribe for more conversations and behind-the-scenes stories celebrating the people who keep America moving!CHAPTERS:00:18 Inside the Mid America Truck Show: Community & Energy01:27 Truck Pulling Stories: Power, Sponsorship, & Family Ties03:02 5,000 Horsepower Semi: Technical Wonders & Crowd Awe04:47 Detailing and Polishing: Behind-the-Scenes Truck Prep06:04 Growth of the Show: Biggest Year for Exhibitors07:39 Truck Show Season Kickoff & New Builds09:13 Why Drivers Choose Bennett: Family Culture vs. Numbers10:20 Hatermaid Truck’s Debut & Community Pride12:04 Sitting Around the Fire with Bennett Leadership13:31 25 Years of Truck Show Memories & Concert Tales15:32 Exclusive Performances: “Bennett, Take Me Home”16:51 National Truck Championship: Picking the Top Three18:56 Why Star Stripes & White Lines Is “Greatest American Truck Show”19:43 Episode Wrap-Up: What Makes MATS So Special
- Apr 14, 202631 min
Bennett Presents: Legacy, Faith & Heavy Haul—David Davenport on "The Highway Knows Your Name"
Step into the cab and buckle up—this episode of Transportation Nation unpacks a legacy of faith, family, and fearless trucking that’s bound to inspire anyone connected to life on the road.In this compelling conversation, we’re joined by Speaker A—author, preacher, and veteran heavy-haul operator—whose new book, The Highway Knows Your Name, weaves together generations of trucking know-how with life lessons and spiritual wisdom. Hear how Speaker A's family transformed from a small-town service station crew into a powerhouse in the heavy haul industry, leaning on teamwork, grit, and a steadfast faith at every turn.Discover what happens behind the scenes of massive, superload moves—where planning can take a year, details make all the difference, and “the devil’s in the details,” as passed down from Speaker A’s own father. You’ll hear why safety, prayer, and trust became non-negotiable parts of every job, and how a simple prayer tradition among rough-and-tumble truckers turned into a lifeline for crews stretched to their limits.Key highlights include:The wild story of a near disaster in a muddy Texas ditch, and how quick thinking—and a little divine intervention—kept the day from going off the rails 23:00.How writing down trucking tales and faith lessons, first for a church newsletter, blossomed into a book meant to preserve a family's legacy, cement trucker camaraderie, and invite new readers into a life-changing perspective 17:13.Why “boomers” (aka load binders) carry lessons that go far beyond rigging, revealing both the dangers and discipline of the trade.Perfect for anyone who loves true stories from the highway, values the legacy of family businesses, or seeks encouragement to blend faith and work. Whether you’re a seasoned driver, industry insider, or simply curious about the human side of trucking, you don’t want to miss this heartfelt episode.Subscribe for more conversations like this—where the stories of the road meet the lessons that last a lifetime.CHAPTERS:00:00 Preserving Family Legacy Through Trucking Stories01:26 Coming Full Circle: The Bennett Connection04:08 Becoming a Pastor & Truck Driver at 1905:25 Life Lessons Learned from Dad07:27 The Davenport Siblings’ Business Journey09:20 Blending Road Stories with Faith10:23 The Hidden Challenges of Heavy Haul Trucking12:38 Why the Book Was Written—Legacy & Faith14:11 The Boomer Story: Trucking Hazard & Humor16:08 Connecting Trucking Lessons to Scripture18:54 Prayer Practices in a Tough Trucking Crew22:01 Divine Help in Impossible Road Situations23:08 Hand Caught in Truck Door: A Harrowing Tale29:05 How to Get “The Highway Knows Your Name”30:20 Gratitude, Farewell, and Faith Forward
- Mar 23, 202627 min
Bennett Presents: Insider Tips for MATS Truck Show, Concerts & Trucking Innovation
Step inside the heart of trucking culture at America’s biggest truck show—MATS, where pride, innovation, and community collide! In this episode of Transportation Nation, hosts Lee Gentry and Jason Brady pull back the curtain on the annual Mid-America Truck Show in Louisville, Kentucky, sharing insider tips, unforgettable memories, and exciting event highlights you won’t want to miss.Get ready as Jason Brady and Lee Gentry—both seasoned pros with decades in the industry—discuss everything from the jaw-dropping trucks on display in the legendary parking lot, to the game-changing technology that’s revolutionized trucking over the last 50 years. Special attention goes to the proud tradition of “Show and Shine,” the electrifying PKY truck light show, and Bennett’s sponsorship of the Friday night concert featuring Long Haul Paul, Mark Ware, and Frank Foster—an all-star lineup for trucking fans.Tune in for key insights like:What truly sets MATS apart as the kickoff truck show of the season and why it’s a “must-walk” event for anyone passionate about trucking.The powerful sense of community at the show—connecting executives, owner-operators, and supporting organizations in an industry-wide celebration.How Bennett’s involvement extends beyond Louisville, from organizing their own Stars, Stripes and White Lines truck show to fundraising for Wreaths Across America, honoring veterans in meaningful ways.Whether you’re a first-time attendee seeking tips or a longtime trucker eager for nostalgia and networking, this episode delivers firsthand perspectives, practical advice, and plenty of warm encouragement to join the action. Plus, discover who’s competing in the jaw-dropping tractor pull, hear about the Women In Trucking initiative’s growing impact, and learn how to snag your concert tickets from the Bennett booth.Subscribe for more conversations like this—celebrating trucking, community, and the stories that move America forward!CHAPTERS:00:00 The Must‑See MATS Parking Lot Experience02:47 Comparing Trucking Then and Now: A Veteran’s Perspective04:55 Overwhelm at MATS: Jason’s First Impressions07:11 MATS: More Than a Truck Show—A Community Gathering09:35 Friday Night Concert Lineup Unveiled11:15 How to Score Free Concert Tickets at MATS14:14 Launching the Truck Show National Championship Passport16:24 Women in Trucking: Empowerment & Bennett’s Role18:11 Tractor Pull Preview: Setting the Grand Finale19:49 Celebrating Ryan DeBro: Champion Tractor Puller22:05 Star Stripes & White Lines: Growing the November Show23:05 Track Laps for Reese’s Cross America Charity24:16 Ball Drop Fundraiser: Huey Helicopter & Prize Details25:26 Star Stripes & White Lines Invitation: All Are Welcome26:12 Swag Swipers: Podcast Humorous Moment & People Watching26:54 Closing: How to Connect and Subscribe
- Mar 17, 202623 min
Bennett Presents: Seth Millican on Trucking Challenges, Solutions, and the Future of Georgia’s Carriers (Part 2)
Ready to discover what’s driving the future of trucking in Georgia? Buckle up for Part 2 of our exclusive interview with Seth Millican, Executive Director of the Georgia Trucking Association, as he joins hosts Caitlyn Folks and Lee Gentry for an insightful, boots-on-the-ground look at the challenges and innovations shaping the transportation industry today.In this episode, you’ll get the inside track on Georgia’s pro-business climate and how state and federal initiatives are paving the way for safer, more profitable operations for carriers and drivers alike. From the ongoing battle over truck parking shortages—and what $200 million in new funding could mean—to the bold strategies propelling workforce development and legislative advocacy, this conversation offers practical takeaways for industry pros and newcomers alike.You’ll hear Seth break down not only the urgent needs around secure truck parking and female driver safety, but also how the association is reimagining its events, training, and partnerships to create a stronger, more connected community (spoiler: there’s more to their truck driving championships than you might think!). Plus, get an insider’s view on recent tort reform wins, the push for a unified business coalition, and how getting politically engaged is vital to protecting trucking’s future.Whether you’re a carrier owner, a driver, or simply fascinated by the logistics that keep our country moving, this episode is packed with actionable insights, inspiration, and a few laughs along the way.Don’t miss out—subscribe now for more candid conversations and expert perspectives on the road ahead for transportation and trucking!CHAPTERS:00:22 Pro-Business Administration’s Impact on Trucking01:46 Federal Funding and Georgia Truck Parking Challenges03:43 Female Drivers and Safety in Truck Parking04:52 Dangerous Parking Scenarios Due to Regulation06:12 Preparing for the Next Convention & Industry Priorities08:55 Workforce Development: Retaining Quality Drivers09:31 Trucking’s Political Voice and Recent Legislative Wins10:39 One-Stop Shop for Training and Carrier Support13:21 Fighting Back Against Lawsuit Culture in Trucking16:11 The Heart of Georgia Trucking: Community & People19:02 The Nation’s Largest Truck Driving Championship21:33 Seth’s Message: Get Plugged In to Your Association
- Mar 9, 202626 min
Transportation Nation Presents: Seth Millican on Georgia Trucking’s Future, Challenges & Solutions (Part 1)
What will it take to keep Georgia the #1 state for business—and how does trucking drive that success?In this insightful episode of Transportation Nation, hosts Caitlyn Folks and Lee Gentry sit down with Seth Millican, President & CEO of the Georgia Motor Trucking Association (GMTA), for an unfiltered look at the challenges and future of Georgia’s trucking industry. With nearly a century of history, the GMTA plays a crucial role in advocating for the 350,000+ Georgians tied to trucking.Discover how rapid population growth, booming freight projections, and expanding ports are creating unprecedented opportunities—as well as unique pressures—on Georgia’s carriers. You’ll hear Seth Millican unpack the realities of rising insurance costs, a looming driver shortage, and the ways technology and regulatory shifts are reshaping the industry. The episode delves into image challenges for trucking, proactive solutions for maintaining safety on the roads, and the escalating sophistication of cargo theft.Don’t miss Seth Millican’s behind-the-scenes perspective on:How Georgia’s new tort reform laws are changing the game for trucking companiesThe real impact of English language proficiency and immigration status regulations on hiring and capacityThe vital role of technical colleges in building the next generation of logistics professionalsWhether you’re in the industry or just fascinated by the backbone of Georgia’s economy, this episode offers an engaging, honest look at what it takes to keep freight—and the state—moving forward.Subscribe for more conversations like this and stay ahead in the world of transportation!CHAPTERS:00:00 Pro-Business Administration Brings Regulatory Stability01:31 GMTA’s Mission: Serving Georgia’s Trucking Industry04:36 Georgia’s Explosive Growth & Freight Forecasts06:59 Top Industry Challenges from Strategic Planning Survey10:10 Tackling Trucking’s Image Problem & Public Perception12:07 Cleaning Out Rogue Actors: The COBRA Task Force14:11 Legislative Fixes for Non-Citizen CDL Issues15:52 Guarding Against Legal Risks from New Laws18:01 The Looming Workforce Cliff in Trucking20:09 Technical Colleges & Georgia’s New Training Center22:15 Upcoming Regulatory & Safety Issues for 202624:37 Georgia’s “Evergreen Battle” Over Tort Reform25:37 Digital Cargo Theft: Rising Sophistication & New Threats
- Mar 3, 202635 min
Bennett Presents: Faith, Family & the Making of Masterbuilt—A Legacy of Patriotism and Purpose With the McLemore Boys
What if building a business could also build your faith, your family legacy, and inspire a movement of patriotism?In this heartfelt and energizing episode, the McLemore Boys of Masterbuilt and the Bennett family of Bennett Transportation & Logistics sit down at Atlanta Motor Speedway during the Bennett 250 to uncover the soul of true family businesses. Hosts John Boy and Lee Gentry are joined by their parents, Big John and Lynette Matis, second-generation leaders who have carried forward more than just a company name—they’ve fueled generational values of faith, hard work, and service.This episode takes you behind the scenes of two iconic family-run enterprises founded in the 1970s, revealing how moments of prayer, bold risks, and unwavering patriotic values turned small dreams into national brands. Big John shares the powerful story of how Masterbuilt got its name, born from a roadside moment with God, and how faith-based leadership shaped the company’s growth. Meanwhile, Lynette Matis reflects on her journey from a 10-year-old helping out after school to watching Bennett grow from a handful of trucks to thousands, all while holding tight to their Christian roots.Key highlights you’ll enjoy in this episode:An emotional dedication to the late “Pawpaw”—the McLemore patriarch—reminding us why purpose and perseverance matter most.Real talk on what sacrifice looks like in a family business, and why saying “yes” to new adventures often means balancing love, priorities, and legacy.Heartwarming accounts of how Bible studies, prayer teams, and patriotic service shape company culture, unite teams, and draw talent who share their values.Whether you’re a fan of inspirational business stories, faith-driven leadership, or American family traditions, this episode will uplift you.Subscribe for more conversations like this, and don’t forget: from our table to yours, God bless.--------------CHAPTERS: 00:00 The Prayer That Named Masterbuilt02:12 Tribute to Pawpaw: Loss and Legacy04:12 Philippians 4:13—Faith Through Grief08:16 How Faith Shaped Masterbuilt’s Journey10:32 Writing Core Values—“The 5 Fs”12:44 Employees Embracing Faith at Work14:57 Prayer Before Every Race: Faith at the Track17:29 Bennett’s Growth: From 15 Trucks to 4,000 Drivers19:56 No Choice But Family—Growing Up Working22:46 From Backyard Sales to Global Brand28:00 Honest Talk: Family Sacrifice Behind Success30:23 Patriotism in Action: Wreaths Across America32:04 Pawpaw: Hero of the Week Tribute32:49 Honoring the Chief of Police—Stony’s Story34:41 Prayers for Good Weather and Final Thoughts
- Feb 23, 202625 min
Bennett Presents: Women in the Driver’s Seat with Alicia Echols
Step into the driver’s seat of change with this empowering episode of “Transportation Nation”—where women aren’t just along for the ride, they’re leading the way!This week, hosts Lee Gentry and Caitlyn Folks sit down with Alicia Echols, Director of Safety and Compliance for Bennett Heavy and Specialized, and driving force behind the Women in the Driver’s Seat program. Together, they unpack how Bennett’s commitment to diversity and advocacy is creating a more inclusive, supportive, and safe environment for women across the trucking industry.You’ll hear firsthand what inspired the Women in the Driver’s Seat initiative, discover how Alicia and her team are breaking down barriers—from fighting for something as fundamental as safe restroom access to tackling the nationwide truck parking shortage—and learn how this dedicated community of over 430 female drivers supports each other on and off the road.Key highlights include:The powerful story behind advocating for the Trucker Bathroom Access Act and why basic dignity issues matter for everyone on the road.A look inside the mentor-mentee program, and how Bennett’s women are using their experience to uplift the next generation of drivers.An inspiring discussion about safety—why it’s a top priority and how trust, community, and legislative action all play a role in supporting women behind the wheel.Whether you’re a seasoned driver, considering a career in trucking, or simply want an insider’s view on how women are transforming an essential industry, this episode offers practical insights, heartfelt stories, and a call to action for allies and advocates alike.Ready to be inspired by women who are moving America forward? Hit subscribe and never miss a conversation that puts drivers—and especially women—in the seat of progress.CHAPTERS: 00:00 430 Female Drivers: Building a Supportive Community01:58 Walking the Halls of Congress for Women in Trucking03:17 The Trucker Bathroom Access Act: Dignity and Health04:46 Truck Parking Crisis and Women's Safety07:27 Breaking Barriers: Making Trucking Safer for Women11:02 Launching Women in the Driver’s Seat Advisory Board13:12 430 Female Drivers: Everyone Shares Their Story14:00 Mentor Program & Health Initiatives for Women Drivers16:00 National Recognition: Women in Trucking Award Nominations18:10 Women in Trucking at the Louisville MATS Show20:22 Driven By Faith: The Role of Spirituality in Trucking22:05 Invitation: Why Bennett Is “Home” for Female Drivers23:54 Celebrating Women Drivers of Excellence24:40 Final Reflections: Advocacy and Women’s Impact in Trucking
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