Transportation Nation

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 Industry 01:44 Honoring Fallen Soldiers with Wreaths Across America 03:24 Bennett’s Full-Circle Involvement in National Remembrance 04:12 Personal Stories: Impact on Families of the Fallen 06:07 The Truck Parking Crisis Explained 09:06 Solutions and Federal Action on Truck Parking 12:07 From Truck Driver to Custom Truck Builder 14:42 “Hater Maid” and Truck Show Culture 16:16 The Value of Pride in Truck Ownership 18:16 Building Trucks for National Championship Shows 19:54 Faith, Redemption, and the Birth of Lonesome Road Radio 25:10 Trucking Is a Calling, Not Just a Job

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 & Energy 01:27 Truck Pulling Stories: Power, Sponsorship, & Family Ties 03:02 5,000 Horsepower Semi: Technical Wonders & Crowd Awe 04:47 Detailing and Polishing: Behind-the-Scenes Truck Prep 06:04 Growth of the Show: Biggest Year for Exhibitors 07:39 Truck Show Season Kickoff & New Builds 09:13 Why Drivers Choose Bennett: Family Culture vs. Numbers 10:20 Hatermaid Truck’s Debut & Community Pride 12:04 Sitting Around the Fire with Bennett Leadership 13:31 25 Years of Truck Show Memories & Concert Tales 15:32 Exclusive Performances: “Bennett, Take Me Home” 16:51 National Truck Championship: Picking the Top Three 18:56 Why Star Stripes & White Lines Is “Greatest American Truck Show” 19:43 Episode Wrap-Up: What Makes MATS So Special

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 Stories 01:26 Coming Full Circle: The Bennett Connection 04:08 Becoming a Pastor & Truck Driver at 19 05:25 Life Lessons Learned from Dad 07:27 The Davenport Siblings’ Business Journey 09:20 Blending Road Stories with Faith 10:23 The Hidden Challenges of Heavy Haul Trucking 12:38 Why the Book Was Written—Legacy & Faith 14:11 The Boomer Story: Trucking Hazard & Humor 16:08 Connecting Trucking Lessons to Scripture 18:54 Prayer Practices in a Tough Trucking Crew 22:01 Divine Help in Impossible Road Situations 23:08 Hand Caught in Truck Door: A Harrowing Tale 29:05 How to Get “The Highway Knows Your Name” 30:20 Gratitude, Farewell, and Faith Forward

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 Experience 02:47 Comparing Trucking Then and Now: A Veteran’s Perspective 04:55 Overwhelm at MATS: Jason’s First Impressions 07:11 MATS: More Than a Truck Show—A Community Gathering 09:35 Friday Night Concert Lineup Unveiled 11:15 How to Score Free Concert Tickets at MATS 14:14 Launching the Truck Show National Championship Passport 16:24 Women in Trucking: Empowerment & Bennett’s Role 18:11 Tractor Pull Preview: Setting the Grand Finale 19:49 Celebrating Ryan DeBro: Champion Tractor Puller 22:05 Star Stripes & White Lines: Growing the November Show 23:05 Track Laps for Reese’s Cross America Charity 24:16 Ball Drop Fundraiser: Huey Helicopter & Prize Details 25:26 Star Stripes & White Lines Invitation: All Are Welcome 26:12 Swag Swipers: Podcast Humorous Moment & People Watching 26:54 Closing: How to Connect and Subscribe

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 Trucking 01:46 Federal Funding and Georgia Truck Parking Challenges 03:43 Female Drivers and Safety in Truck Parking 04:52 Dangerous Parking Scenarios Due to Regulation 06:12 Preparing for the Next Convention & Industry Priorities 08:55 Workforce Development: Retaining Quality Drivers 09:31 Trucking’s Political Voice and Recent Legislative Wins 10:39 One-Stop Shop for Training and Carrier Support 13:21 Fighting Back Against Lawsuit Culture in Trucking 16:11 The Heart of Georgia Trucking: Community & People 19:02 The Nation’s Largest Truck Driving Championship 21:33 Seth’s Message: Get Plugged In to Your Association