The Oakley Podcast

This week on the Oakley Podcast, host Jeremy Kellett talks with Oakley Owner-Operator Craig Taylor about his journey from a long, successful career in wealth management to trucking and becoming a first-time owner-operator. Craig shares his past as a high-functioning alcoholic, a devastating 2019 single-vehicle accident that nearly killed him, the long recovery that followed, and the wake-up call of alcoholic pancreatitis that led him to quit drinking cold turkey. He explains how faith, second chances, and personal responsibility shaped his return to trucking, his move to Oakley, and his approach to running his truck like a business, covering fuel strategy, costs, and what it really takes to succeed as an owner-operator. Trust us, you won’t want to miss this episode! Key topics in today’s conversation include: Oakley Trucking is a family-owned and operated trucking company headquartered in North Little Rock, Arkansas. For more information, check out our show website: podcast.bruceoakley.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

This week on the Oakley Podcast, host Jeremy Kellett talks with Kirk Waidelich, Chief Commercial Officer at Road Ranger, about how the growing travel stop chain is evolving to better serve truck drivers and auto customers. Drawing on Kirk’s 40-year retail background, they discuss Road Ranger’s expansion, particularly in Texas, and the changes driven by driver feedback, including competitive fuel pricing, cleaner showers, better food, reserved parking, and stronger loyalty perks, along with the company’s commitment to community through St. Jude partnerships. Don’t miss this great conversation! Key topics in today’s conversation include: Oakley Trucking is a family-owned and operated trucking company headquartered in North Little Rock, Arkansas. For more information, check out our show website: podcast.bruceoakley.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

This week on the Oakley Podcast, host Jeremy Kellett welcomes Keith Wilson, Tasha Rinehart, and Joe Vulpone from Arrow Truck Sales to spotlight the successful partnership with Oakley and Arrow. The conversation delves into their 75-year history, the process of sourcing and inspecting quality used trucks, and Arrow’s customer-first approach. Key discussions include the impact of technology in truck sales, the unique advantages of Arrow’s in-house financing through Transport Funding, and the opening of their new Little Rock location. Listeners will learn about the importance of building lasting relationships, post-sale support for drivers, adapting to industry changes for long-term trucking success, and so much more. Key topics in today’s conversation include: Oakley Trucking is a family-owned and operated trucking company headquartered in North Little Rock, Arkansas. For more information, check out our show website: podcast.bruceoakley.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

This week on the Oakley Podcast, host Jeremy Kellett interviews Martin Garsee about the realities of truck driver training, the mission of the National Association of Publicly Funded Truck Driving Schools (NAPFTDS), and the evolving landscape of industry regulations. The discussion covers training program structures, student recruitment, job placement, lifestyle challenges for drivers, the importance of professionalism and customer service, and adapting to new rules like English proficiency and automatic transmissions. Key takeaways include the value of networking in education, the need for realistic career expectations, the critical role of thorough, ongoing training for both new and experienced truck drivers, and so much more. Key topics in today’s conversation include: Oakley Trucking is a family-owned and operated trucking company headquartered in North Little Rock, Arkansas. For more information, check out our show website: podcast.bruceoakley.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

This week on the Oakley Podcast, host Jeremy Kellett interviews Major General Bob Walters, exploring his extraordinary career in the U.S. Army, the challenges of military leadership, and the profound impact on his family. Walters shares captivating stories from deployments around the globe, including operations in Iraq, Afghanistan, and the notable Abu Ghraib experience. The episode also touches on the parallels between military discipline and the trucking industry, promoting Walters’ new book about leadership in tough times. Key takeaways include the sacrifices made by military families, the value of steadfast leadership under pressure, the strong ties between veterans and the world of trucking, and so much more. Key topics in today’s conversation include: Oakley Trucking is a family-owned and operated trucking company headquartered in North Little Rock, Arkansas. For more information, check out our show website: podcast.bruceoakley.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

This week on the Oakley Podcast, host Jeremy Kellett is joined by ops managers Nick Dulaney and Jason Webb to review Oakley Trucking’s milestones and challenges in 2025 and look ahead to 2026. Topics include overcoming a tough freight market, the impact of tariffs, equipment and trailer updates, and maintaining high safety and service standards. The discussion highlights proactive strategies for customer retention, operational improvements using data and AI, fostering company culture, annual bonuses, and the significance of the new St. Louis terminal. Key takeaways are Oakley’s commitment to its drivers, adaptability in changing markets, positive outlooks for growth and efficiency in 2026, and so much more. Key topics in today’s conversation include: Oakley Trucking is a family-owned and operated trucking company headquartered in North Little Rock, Arkansas. For more information, check out our show website: podcast.bruceoakley.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

We're taking a look back at some of our favorite episodes of 2025. This week on the Oakley Podcast, Megan Cummings and Dustin Eagle bring you another great episode as they welcome Fred & Jerome Levy. Fred is an Owner/Operator here at Oakley, and his son Jerome is already planning his trucking career. Fred, who started driving with Pepsi and transitioned to over-the-road trucking, discusses his career path and joining Oakley Trucking. Jerome, already knowledgeable in the industry, demonstrates an intense interest in trucking, using American Truck Simulator and already planning to start his own company in the future. The episode explores changes in the trucking industry, the importance of family values, understanding of trucking regulations, and truck models. Key takeaways include the evolving nature of trucking, the significance of mentorship even from parent to child, the potential for young, passionate individuals to innovate in the transportation industry, and so much more. Key topics in today’s conversation include: Oakley Trucking is a family-owned and operated trucking company headquartered in North Little Rock, Arkansas. For more information, check out our show website: podcast.bruceoakley.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

We're taking a look back at some of our favorite episodes of 2025. This week on the Oakley Podcast, host Jeremy Kellett welcomes Bryan “Bossman” Martin, Owner of 4 State Trucks/Chrome Shop Mafia in Joplin, Missouri. During the episode, Bryan shares his journey from a mechanic to a leader in the custom truck industry, detailing the evolution of his business from a small parts store to a renowned custom truck shop. He discusses the impact of the "Trick My Truck" TV show on his business and the growth of his truck show. The episode highlights the sense of community in trucking, Bryan's future plans for 4 State Trucks and Chrome Shop Mafia, and so much more. Key topics in today’s conversation include: Oakley Trucking is a family-owned and operated trucking company headquartered in North Little Rock, Arkansas. For more information, check out our show website: podcast.bruceoakley.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

We're taking a look back at some of our favorite episodes of 2025. This week on the Oakley Podcast, hosts Jeremy Kellett and Megan Cummings welcome Brad Page, one of our owner/operators at Oakley Trucking. During the episode, Brad shares his incredible journey as a commercial airline pilot for over 30 years to the open road of being an owner-operator. The discussion covers Brad's memorable flying experiences, including challenging landings and his work in medevac missions. The episode also touches on Brad's family, his sons' careers in engineering and mechanics, the evolving technology in the trucking industry, comparisons between being a pilot and an owner-operator, and so much more. Key topics in today’s conversation include: Oakley Trucking is a family-owned and operated trucking company headquartered in North Little Rock, Arkansas. For more information, check out our show website: podcast.bruceoakley.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

We're taking a look back at some of our favorite episodes of 2025. During this week’s episode of the Oakley Podcast, host Jeremy Kellett is joined by Bruce Mallinson, Owner of Pittsburgh Power, live from the Mid-America Truck Show in Louisville, Kentucky. In this conversation, Bruce shares his lifelong passion for engines, recounting childhood experiences that ignited his love for horsepower and torque. He emphasizes the importance of owner-operators in the trucking industry and discusses the benefits of Pittsburgh Power’s Max Mileage Fuel Born Catalyst. The conversation also touches on the challenges of retirement for truckers, the camaraderie among drivers, the critical role of trucking in society, the resilience of the trucking community, and so much more. Key topics in today’s conversation include: Oakley Trucking is a family-owned and operated trucking company headquartered in North Little Rock, Arkansas. For more information, check out our show website: podcast.bruceoakley.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

We're taking a look back at some of our favorite episodes of 2025. This week on the Oakley Podcast, host Jeremy Kellett chats with Carlton & Leigh Wing, the Hosts & Founders of Wing Media Group and creators of the Arkansas Great Outdoors show. During the episode, Carlton & Leigh share their journey from broadcasting to media entrepreneurship. Leigh also shares her personal ties to trucking in the family and the appreciation everyone should have for truckers and their importance in keeping the country running. The Wings highlight Arkansas's incredible natural resources, emphasizing the state's diverse outdoor opportunities and the importance of getting people, especially youth, engaged with nature. Carlton also reveals his recent decision to step back from politics after serving in the House of Representatives for 10 years. Throughout the conversation, they stress the therapeutic benefits of outdoor experiences and the joy of discovering new activities like fishing, hiking, and exploring state parks. Don’t miss it! Key topics in today’s conversation include: Oakley Trucking is a family-owned and operated trucking company headquartered in North Little Rock, Arkansas. For more information, check out our show website: podcast.bruceoakley.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

This week on the Oakley Podcast, Jeremy Kellett sits down with Dave Hall, Arkansas Road Team Captain and veteran truck driver, to discuss his 38-year career, the importance of road safety education, and the mission of the Arkansas Road Team. They explore the team’s hands-on outreach programs, like driving simulators and blind spot demonstrations, aimed at educating drivers of all ages about sharing the road safely with trucks. Key topics include challenges of the trucking industry, advice for new drivers, combating distracted driving, and opportunities in the field for everyone. Listeners will gain insights into the rewarding nature of trucking, the importance of education for public safety, upcoming plans to bring these initiatives to broader audiences, and so much more. Key topics in today’s conversation include: Oakley Trucking is a family-owned and operated trucking company headquartered in North Little Rock, Arkansas. For more information, check out our show website: podcast.bruceoakley.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

This week on the Oakley Podcast, Jeremy Kellett chats with Lewie Pugh, Executive Vice President of Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association (OOIDA), to discuss major issues impacting the trucking industry. Topics include the challenges and controversy around non-domicile CDL holders, changes and enforcement of English proficiency rules for drivers, industry safety standards, and ongoing regulatory updates from Washington. Listeners will learn about the risks these issues pose to highway safety, why higher standards and stricter oversight are needed, and how advocacy and grassroots involvement can make a difference. The episode emphasizes the importance of proactive engagement in trucking policy, the critical role organizations like OOIDA play for drivers and owner-operators, and so much more. Key topics in today’s conversation include: Oakley Trucking is a family-owned and operated trucking company headquartered in North Little Rock, Arkansas. For more information, check out our show website: podcast.bruceoakley.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

This week on the Oakley Podcast, host Jeremy Kellett welcomes Justin Moore, multi-platinum country music hitmaker and award-winning recording artist whose string of 13 No. 1 hits and traditional country sound have made him one of the genre’s most beloved voices. Justin shares insights from his career, the realities of life on the road, and his Arkansas roots. The conversation covers Justin’s journey in the music industry, how he balances touring with family life, the logistics of transporting equipment, and the vital role of truck drivers. Justin also discusses new music projects, hunting with his children, friendships with fellow artists, and his perspective on Razorbacks football. Key takeaways include the importance of strong relationships, staying true to one’s roots, the essential contributions of supportive families and the trucking community, and so much more. Key topics in today’s conversation include: Oakley Trucking is a family-owned and operated trucking company headquartered in North Little Rock, Arkansas. For more information, check out our show website: podcast.bruceoakley.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

This week on the Oakley Podcast, host Jeremy Kellett is joined by military veteran and Oakley owner-operator Josh Bailey for a heartfelt Veterans Day discussion. Josh shares his experiences from nearly two decades of military service, including multiple combat deployments, and discusses his transition to trucking and civilian life. The episode delves into the challenges veterans face, the unique camaraderie and pride they carry, and the important role of teamwork and support in both military and trucking careers. Key takeaways include the significance of Veterans Day, the value of veteran support, the enduring pride and resilience of those who have served, and so much more. Key topics in today’s conversation include: Oakley Trucking is a family-owned and operated trucking company headquartered in North Little Rock, Arkansas. For more information, check out our show website: podcast.bruceoakley.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

This week on the Oakley Podcast, hosts Jeremy Kellett and Megan Cummings welcome owner-operator Rowdy Gibbs to share his story of transitioning from the car business to trucking, highlighting the importance of passion, financial responsibility, and a supportive work environment in the trucking industry. The discussion covers Rowdy’s background, practical advice for new drivers on managing money and work-life balance, the evolving public perception of truckers, and the role of good training and company culture. Key takeaways include prioritizing savings, loving your work, the value of strong industry relationships for long-term success, and so much more. Key topics in today’s conversation include: Oakley Trucking is a family-owned and operated trucking company headquartered in North Little Rock, Arkansas. For more information, check out our show website: podcast.bruceoakley.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

This week on the Oakley Podcast, host Jeremy Kellett welcomes Gregory Fallin, Alex Witkowski, and Bo Gray as the group discusses Oakley’s growth and integration across feed, fertilizer, and logistics operations, highlighting the impact of recent acquisitions like the ADM terminal. They outline how Oakley’s one-stop-shop capabilities, customer service excellence, and flexible logistics set them apart in the industry. Listeners gain behind-the-scenes insight into Oakley’s team culture, expansion strategy, and the advantages these bring for customers and drivers, along with a look at future plans for continued growth. Don’t miss this behind-the-scenes look at the company’s growth and operations. Key topics in today’s conversation include: Oakley Trucking is a family-owned and operated trucking company headquartered in North Little Rock, Arkansas. For more information, check out our show website: podcast.bruceoakley.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

This week on the Oakley Podcast, Jeremy Kellett sits down with Mike and Tangy Nochta. Mike is an Owner-Operator at Oakley and he and his wife have unique backgrounds in trucking, postal work, and nursing. They share their personal stories, including their path to truck ownership, family life, handling major challenges, and the importance of living within one's means. Key topics include practical financial advice, managing health on the road, building strong relationships, and the value of a supportive community. Listeners will gain insight into the realities of transitioning from company driver to owner-operator, tips on sustaining both business and family through teamwork and smart planning, and so much more. Key topics in today’s conversation include: Oakley Trucking is a family-owned and operated trucking company headquartered in North Little Rock, Arkansas. For more information, check out our show website: podcast.bruceoakley.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

This week on the Oakley Podcast, Steve Grant shares his inspiring journey from a military upbringing to becoming a successful Owner/Operator at Oakley. He discusses the challenges and rewards of trucking, the importance of financial planning and business ownership, and offers practical advice for aspiring owner-operators. Steve also highlights his commitment to health and fitness on the road, the value of building honest relationships, and his future goals of expanding his business and supporting others. Listeners will gain insights into the realities of trucking, the significance of resilience, the benefits of taking control of one’s career and well-being, and so much more. Key topics in today’s conversation include: Oakley Trucking is a family-owned and operated trucking company headquartered in North Little Rock, Arkansas. For more information, check out our show website: podcast.bruceoakley.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Key topics in today’s conversation include: Oakley Trucking is a family-owned and operated trucking company headquartered in North Little Rock, Arkansas. For more information, check out our show website: podcast.bruceoakley.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.