Keep Trucking Personal

Episode 114: Building Success One Mile at a Time

In this episode of Keep Trucking Personal, Tyler Kivi talks about the realities of becoming a professional driver and what rookie drivers learn once they hit the open road on their own. From handling responsibility behind the wheel to managing time, weather, communication, and life away from home, Tyler shares honest advice designed to help new drivers succeed for the long haul. He also dives into the mental side of trucking, the importance of discipline and consistency, and why experience is earned one mile at a time. Tyler explains what companies are really looking for in drivers, why attitude and coachability matter, and how dependable drivers separate themselves in the industry. Whether you’re just getting started, exploring a new opportunity, or already years into your trucking career, this episode is packed with perspective, motivation, and practical insight to help you stay focused, keep improving, and continue building a successful career on the road.

Episode 113: New Drivers: How to Build a Real Career in Trucking

What comes after getting your CDL? In this episode of Keep Trucking Personal, Tyler Kivi speaks directly to new drivers trying to navigate the toughest part of the industry: getting experience, finding the right fit, and building a long-term career in trucking. Tyler breaks down: *  The challenge of getting hired without experience  *  Why summer is the best time to grow in flatbed trucking  *  How to avoid the “job hopping” trap  *  What carriers really look for in your work history and PSP/DAC reports  *  Why tenure, consistency, and relationships matter  *  How to choose a company that actually fits your lifestyle and goals  *  The importance of protecting your CDL and reputation early in your career  Whether you’re fresh out of CDL school, approaching your first year behind the wheel, or trying to figure out your next move, this episode is packed with honest advice and real perspective from someone who grew up in the industry. And if you're looking for a home, check us out at: https://kivibros.com/join-our-team/ [https://kivibros.com/join-our-team/]

Episode 112: DOT Blitz Week: How to Pass Inspections & Get Paid with Safety Manager Tyler Johnson

This week on Keep Trucking Personal, host Tyler Kivi is joined by Safety Manager Tyler Johnson to break down everything drivers need to know heading into the 2026 CVSA International Roadcheck (DOT Blitz Week), taking place May 12–14. During this 72-hour period, inspectors across North America will conduct increased Level I inspections with a focus on ELD compliance, hours-of-service, and cargo securement - making preparation more important than ever. Tyler and TJ walk through what drivers should be paying attention to now, emphasizing that most violations come down to simple, avoidable issues like tires, lights, paperwork, and organization. They highlight the importance of building consistent habits, especially mid-trip inspections, to catch issues before they become violations. From how your truck looks when you pull into a scale to how accurately your logs are maintained, the details matter... and they directly impact your CSA score, inspection frequency, and ultimately your earning potential. They also share practical advice on what to do if you disagree with an inspection, including documenting everything and communicating quickly, as well as how safety teams proactively review logs to help drivers stay compliant. With insights on cargo securement, digital permit books, and the risks of misusing personal conveyance, this episode serves as both a reminder and a roadmap for success during Blitz Week and beyond.

Episode 111: Raise the Standard: Owning DOT Blitz Week (International Roadcheck Prep)

In this episode of Keep Trucking Personal, Tyler Kivi brings everything full circle by connecting the lessons from the Living Radical and Stand Firm series into one clear message: raise your standard. With the upcoming CVSA International Roadcheck (DOT Blitz Week) taking place May 12-14, he walks through how drivers can prepare, perform, and approach inspections with confidence. The focus is on being ready before you ever hit the scale - knowing your equipment, your logbook, and your load are dialed in.  Tyler highlights the key areas for this year, including logbooks and load securement, and reinforces how small details like signing logs, checking straps, and having paperwork in order can impact the outcome of an inspection. He encourages drivers to stay consistent now so nothing changes when the pressure is on, and to take ownership of their work with pride and professionalism. DOT Blitz Week is simply a moment to show the standard you’ve already set. Whether you’re part of Kivi Bros Trucking or running your own operation, this episode serves as both a practical checklist and a mindset reset - be prepared, stay confident, treat officers with respect, and show up ready to do the job right. Learn more about CVSA’s International Roadcheck Scheduled for May 12-14 here: https://cvsa.org/news/2026-roadcheck/

Episode 110: Stand Firm and Act Like a Trucker Part 3 - The Standard That Builds the Industry

In Part 3 of this series on the Keep Trucking Personal, Tyler Kivi focuses on what it means to act like a trucker and why that standard matters across the entire industry. This episode centers on mindset, ownership, and how drivers carry themselves on and off the road. Tyler shares that trucking is tied closely to reputation. The way a driver shows up at a customer location, maintains equipment, and interacts with others reflects on the individual, the company, and the industry as a whole. Building on the earlier parts of the series, he reinforces the importance of standing firm with an ownership mentality and doing the job right with attention to detail. He then brings those ideas together through professionalism and personal responsibility. He discusses current industry conditions, including rising fuel costs, strong demand, and the presence of chameleon carriers, while encouraging drivers to stay grounded in integrity and pride in their work. Throughout the episode, Tyler highlights how everyday habits shape outcomes. Clean equipment, organized gear, strong communication, and respect for others all contribute to trust and long-term success. He also emphasizes that behavior away from the truck still matters, since drivers represent something larger wherever they go. The message is clear. Trucking depends on individuals who take ownership, carry themselves with professionalism, and understand the impact of their actions on the road and beyond. The 60 Minutes episode Tyler references in this episode can be found here. [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ylbvU-lmcpI&t=1s] If you missed Part One or Part Two of this series, check them out here:  * Episode 108: Stand Firm and Act Like a Trucker Part 1 - Stand Firm: No Excuses, Just Ownership [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2565544/episodes/18966757] * Episode 109: Stand Firm and Act Like a Trucker Part 2 - Do the Job Right [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2565544/episodes/18986579]