The Stevens Transport Roadside Radio Podcast - Episode 198

Stevens Roundtable: Earn More by Becoming a Driver Trainer Director of Driver Training Tara Winn returns to talk about one of the best opportunities available to experienced Stevens drivers: becoming a Driver Trainer. Tara explains how trainers are compensated for all the miles their truck runs, the additional training pay available, and how some Independent Contractors have used the extra income to pay off their trucks sooner. And with winter approaching, now is an important time to start working toward the qualifications. Driver Spotlight: Mike Ripetough Nearly four years into his Stevens career, Mike Ripetough is closing in on completing his second lease and has taken another big step as a business owner by forming an S Corporation. Mike talks about the support he's received from Stevens, why he chose the company after years of research, and offers a few entertaining observations about life that only another truck driver could truly understand. Transition Trucking: Let's Get Gary That Truck! What began in 2016 has now put approximately $1.5 million worth of Kenworth trucks into the hands of military veterans beginning new careers behind the wheel. Stevens Transport has already produced three winners, and this year Gary Williams, a retired Army Command Sergeant Major with 31 years of service, is one of just five finalists. Voting for the 2026 Transition Trucking: Driving for Excellence Award begins November 1 and continues through Veterans Day, November 11. Stevens Transport is proud to have Gary Williams representing us as one of this year's Elite 11. Vote for him here, starting on November 1st: https://transitiontrucking.org/vote/  A Halloween Trucker Classic: "Phantom 309" Since Episode 199 arrives on Halloween, we're ending with a ghost story made for the highway. Whether you're a country music fan or not, Red Sovine's legendary truck-driving tale "Phantom 309" is the perfect way to send our drivers into Halloween night. And next stop: Episode 200! Become a Driver for Stevens Transport For questions on whether you meet our driver qualifications, please call our Recruiting Department at 1-800-333-8595 or visit: www.stevenstransport.com/drivers/ Stevens Transport 9757 Military Parkway, Dallas, TX 75227 http://www.stevenstransport.com/http://www.becomeadriver.com/ Driver Recruiting: 1-800-333-8595. Apply Here: https://intelliapp2.driverapponline.com Paragon Leasing Technician Careers: https://www.stevenstransport.com/careers/fleet-maintenance-jobs/

Stevens Roundtable: The Best Drivers Start with the Best Trainers Driver Relations Manager Lori Jensen Givens returns to the podcast with some wonderful news about her own cancer journey before talking about a major opportunity for Stevens drivers: becoming a Driver Trainer. Lori explains the qualifications, additional earning potential, mentorship opportunities and how training can accelerate a driver's journey toward the Million Mile Hall of Fame. Transition Trucking: Gary Williams Is a FINALIST! It's official! Gary Williams is one of only five finalists for the 2026 Transition Trucking: Driving for Excellence Award, with a brand-new Kenworth T680 on the line. The retired Army Command Sergeant Major served our country for 31 years before beginning his new career with Stevens Transport. Voting begins November 1 and continues through Veterans Day, November 11, and supporters can vote once every day.    Pasted text Breast Cancer Awareness Month: Her Fight Is Our Fight October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and this conversation is especially personal for Trucker Tim. We revisit Stevens driver Nikeyta "Pinky" Matthews and the story behind her unmistakable pink truck, carrying the message "Her Fight Is Our Fight." Stevens employees and family members share powerful reminders about screening, early detection and advocating for your own health and the people you love.    Pasted text Tip of the Stevens Ten-Gallon Hat: August Drivers of the Month Congratulations to Nicole Watkins and Milton Zubieta Espejo, the August Team Drivers of the Month! Nicole is a third-generation truck driver, and she and Milton have now earned the honor for the second time. Their recipe for successful team driving? Communication, consistency and always having each other's backs. Become a Driver for Stevens Transport For questions on whether you meet our driver qualifications, please call our Recruiting Department at 1-800-333-8595 or visit: www.stevenstransport.com/drivers/ Stevens Transport 9757 Military Parkway, Dallas, TX 75227 http://www.stevenstransport.com/http://www.becomeadriver.com/ Driver Recruiting: 1-800-333-8595. Apply Here: https://intelliapp2.driverapponline.com Paragon Leasing Technician Careers: https://www.stevenstransport.com/careers/fleet-maintenance-jobs/

Episode Notes Stevens Roundtable: Becoming an Independent Contractor Could you be ready to take the ceiling off your earning potential and become your own business owner? Independent Contractor Relations Manager Ali Gilbert joins Trucker Tim to explain how Stevens Transport helps drivers make the transition to becoming independent contractors, including weekly informational classes, business advisors and ongoing support. And here's the attention-getter: you can get started with zero dollars down. Safety Reminder: Following Distance Six seconds can make all the difference. We review the importance of maintaining proper following distance, looking well beyond the vehicle immediately in front of you and keeping your eyes moving to identify potential hazards before they become emergencies. Drive. Teach. Inspire: Driver Trainer Derrick Gordon After 11 years with Stevens Transport and nearly two million miles, Driver Trainer Derrick Gordon knows the value of a great mentor. Derrick shares how his own trainers helped shape his career, why he eventually became a trainer himself, and how training has provided additional income while creating relationships with drivers that continue years after they've left his truck. Pasted text Welcome, October New Driver Class! We close the show by welcoming the October 1, 2026 New Driver Class to the Stevens Transport family. Every new driver arrives with a different story, but they share a determination to build a better future and begin a career helping keep America moving. Become a Driver for Stevens Transport For questions on whether you meet our driver qualifications, please call our Recruiting Department at 1-800-333-8595 or visit: www.stevenstransport.com/drivers/ Stevens Transport 9757 Military Parkway, Dallas, TX 75227 http://www.stevenstransport.com/http://www.becomeadriver.com/ Driver Recruiting: 1-800-333-8595. Apply Here: https://intelliapp2.driverapponline.com Paragon Leasing Technician Careers: https://www.stevenstransport.com/careers/fleet-maintenance-jobs/

Stevens Roundtable: Money Mike Tackles Record Diesel PricesDiesel prices recently reached a new national record, and Stevens Transport is taking action. Fuel Manager "Money Mike" joins Trucker Tim to explain how Stevens successfully renegotiated deeper fuel and DEF discounts with major fuel retailers. He also explains why following the Fuel Optimizer and recommended trip plan is especially important right now for independent contractors and company drivers alike. Breast Cancer Awareness Month with PinkyOctober is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and Trucker Tim catches up with longtime Stevens driver Pinky, who has been part of the Roadside Radio Podcast almost from the beginning. Pinky is celebrating eight years with Stevens and more than 819,000 miles, but perhaps her most recognizable contribution is Miss Clarissa, her unmistakable pink truck wrapped in support of breast cancer awareness. Pinky shares why the cause means so much to her and how she uses the truck to honor survivors, those still fighting, and those we've lost. Driver Spotlight: Cache Hamilton Meet Cache Hamilton, an independent contractor celebrating the completion of her lease and the first person in her family to climb behind the wheel of a big rig. Now a trainer herself, Cache talks about her journey in trucking, the challenges she's faced as a woman in the industry, and the freedom of the road that makes it all worthwhile.Link to video: https://youtu.be/zBCo1EKY8f0?si=vFP73m1Rd_o5EFO1 Fire Prevention Week: Charge SmartFor Fire Prevention Week, we're sharing some simple but important reminders about the lithium-ion batteries and rechargeable devices we use every day. From using manufacturer-approved chargers and charging on hard surfaces to recognizing warning signs like excessive heat, swelling, strange odors or smoke, a few smart habits can help keep you, your truck and your equipment safe.  Become a Driver for Stevens TransportFor questions on whether you meet our driver qualifications, please call our Recruiting Department at 1-800-333-8595 or visit: www.stevenstransport.com/drivers/ Stevens Transport 9757 Military Parkway, Dallas, TX 75227 http://www.stevenstransport.com/http://www.becomeadriver.com/ Driver Recruiting: 1-800-333-8595. Apply Here: https://intelliapp2.driverapponline.com Paragon Leasing Technician Careers: https://www.stevenstransport.com/careers/fleet-maintenance-jobs/

STEVENS ROUNDTABLE: RAILROAD CROSSING SAFETY Railroad crossings are a routine part of life on the road, but one wrong decision can become an emergency in seconds. A Special Agent with Canadian Pacific Kansas City Railroad Police joins Trucker Tim with important reminders about safely approaching and crossing railroad tracks, why drivers need to make certain their entire rig can clear the crossing before committing, and what to do if a truck becomes stuck on the tracks. He also explains who drivers should call first in an emergency and what to do if a collision with an approaching train cannot be avoided. Pasted markdown TRANSITION TRUCKING: MEET SEMIFINALIST GARY WILLIAMS Meet Gary Williams, one of the Stevens Transport semifinalists for the 2026 Transition Trucking: Driving for Excellence Award. Gary shares his journey from 31 years of service in the United States Army to a new career behind the wheel, why he chose Stevens Transport, and what he enjoys about the freedom of life on the road. If Gary ultimately wins the competition, he'll drive away in a brand-new Kenworth T680. A MESSAGE FROM THE STEVENS TRANSPORT LEADERSHIP TEAM Driver Appreciation Week may be over, but appreciation for the men and women behind the wheel continues 365 days a year. Members of the Stevens Transport Leadership Team share a special message of gratitude to the professional drivers whose craftsmanship, dedication and pursuit of excellence keep Stevens Transport and America moving forward. Become a Driver for Stevens Transport Ready to start your own journey with Stevens Transport? For questions about driver qualifications, call Driver Recruiting at 1-800-333-8595. Stevens Transport Driver Careers Become a Driver Apply Online Paragon Leasing Technician Careers Stevens Transport Stevens Transport 9757 Military Parkway Dallas, TX 75227  

Season 10, Episode 194: Driver Appreciation Week Special Driver Appreciation Week may be in the rearview mirror, but the celebration isn't over! Trucker Tim takes you back to the Stevens Transport yard in Mesquite for a special episode celebrating the professional drivers who keep Stevens Transport and America moving every day. Recorded during Driver Appreciation Week, Tim catches up with Senior Vice President of Operations Angelo Gibson, Corey Childress from Driver Services, Money Mike, Director of Driver & Safety Services Rachel Easley, and longtime Stevens driver Pinky, who is closing in on her first million miles. Together, they share what Driver Appreciation Week means to them, the sacrifices drivers and their families make, and why appreciation for the men and women behind the wheel extends far beyond one week each year. We'll also take you inside the celebration, including the food, music, games, giveaways and prizes, and congratulate the winners of this year's Driver Rodeo and Chili Cook-Off. Plus, we're celebrating America's truck drivers with some music made especially for them. Truck Driver - Dylan Bloom Watch the video on YouTube God Made a Trucker Watch the video on YouTube To every Stevens Transport driver: thank you for the miles you drive, the standard you carry, and the sacrifices you and your families make to keep America moving. Become a Driver for Stevens Transport Ready to start your own journey with Stevens Transport? For questions about driver qualifications, call Driver Recruiting at 1-800-333-8595. Stevens Transport Driver Careers Become a Driver Apply Online Paragon Leasing Technician Careers Stevens Transport Stevens Transport 9757 Military Parkway Dallas, TX 75227

STEVENS ROUNDTABLE: DRIVER APPRECIATION WEEK Rachel Easley, Director of Driver & Safety Services, joins the Stevens Roundtable with a preview of National Truck Driver Appreciation Week. From food, games and prizes to DJs, raffles, competitions and plenty of surprises, Stevens is preparing an entire week devoted to the men and women behind the wheel. Rachel also explains how drivers who can't make it to the yard will still be included in the celebration. TEAM DRIVING Discover the transformative world of team driving with Stevens Transport in this insightful discussion. Learn how driving with a partner boosts efficiency, earning potential, and safety, while allowing for nearly constant travel and the enjoyment of America's stunning landscapes. Earn More/Team Up - https://vimeo.com/1020240977 WELCOME TO STEVENS: OUR NEW DIRECTOR OF SAFETY Trucker Tim welcomes Stevens Transport's new Director of Safety, Josh, to the podcast. Josh shares some of his background in driver training and safety, discusses new technology coming to Stevens, and explains why preparing drivers to successfully use those tools will be just as important as the technology itself. He also offers some timely advice as drivers begin preparing for changing fall and winter road conditions. STEVENS SEPTEMBER NEWS BULLETIN There is plenty happening across Stevens Transport as we head into National Truck Driver Appreciation Week. We welcome several new members to the Stevens family, preview a full week of Driver Appreciation activities, and recognize the newest inductees into the Stevens Transport Million Mile Hall of Fame, including an incredible five-million-mile achievement. Become a Driver for Stevens Transport For questions on whether you meet our driver qualifications, please call our Recruiting Department at 1-800-333-8595 or visit: www.stevenstransport.com/drivers/ Stevens Transport 9757 Military Parkway, Dallas, TX 75227 http://www.stevenstransport.com/ http://www.becomeadriver.com/ Driver Recruiting: 1-800-333-8595.  Apply Here: https://intelliapp2.driverapponline.com Paragon Leasing Technician Careers: https://www.stevenstransport.com/careers/fleet-maintenance-jobs/

Stevens Roundtable: Meet Tara Wynn, Director of Driver Training What does it take to prepare the next generation of Stevens Transport drivers? Meet Tara Wynn, the new Director of Driver Training at Stevens Transport. Tara brings more than 20 years of transportation experience to the position. Trucking is in her blood. Her father owned a trucking company, Tara drove professionally for more than 15 years, and she's also been an owner-operator, trainer and broker. Now she's bringing that real-world experience to one of the foundations of Stevens Transport: driver training. Team Driving Discover the transformative world of team driving with Stevens Transport in this insightful discussion. Learn how driving with a partner boosts efficiency, earning potential, and safety, while allowing for nearly constant travel and the enjoyment of America's stunning landscapes. Earn More/Team Up - https://vimeo.com/1020240977 Driver Spotlight: Julian Gonzalez One year. That was the plan. Get some experience, move on, and figure out the next step. Nearly six years later, he is finishing his second lease, adding a second truck to his business, and wondering how he ever thought this would just be a pit stop.  In this Driver Spotlight, Julian opens up about the focus and discipline that carried him through the hard days, the top-notch support he found in Stevens' contractor division, and what it feels like to look back at how far he's come. Meet Julian Gonzalez, an Independent Contractor at Stevens Transport. See the video here: https://youtu.be/Igmz53GKawk?si=b-TdcpZreNiNpyUI Tip of the Stevens Cap We're going to need an extra-big Ten Gallon Stevens Hat this week as we recognize an outstanding group from across the Stevens family! From Drivers of the Month and million-mile achievers to trainers, independent contractors, new drivers and a well-earned promotion, these men represent experience, entrepreneurship, mentorship and dedication at every stage of a Stevens career.  Congratulations to Jose Alberto, Jose Ureta, Maurice Reynolds, Jared White, Scott Fitchette, Robert Knapp, Andre Jones, Kirk Smith, David, Baltazar Mata, Tamas Turoczi, Stephen Walker and Kyle Jones. Different roads. Different stories. One Stevens family. Become a Driver for Stevens Transport For questions on whether you meet our driver qualifications, please call our Recruiting Department at 1-800-333-8595 or visit: www.stevenstransport.com/drivers/ Stevens Transport 9757 Military Parkway, Dallas, TX 75227 http://www.stevenstransport.com/ http://www.becomeadriver.com/ Driver Recruiting: 1-800-333-8595.  Apply Here: https://intelliapp2.driverapponline.com Paragon Leasing Technician Careers: https://www.stevenstransport.com/careers/fleet-maintenance-jobs/

Stevens Roundtable: Welcome Hassan Assani Bisilongo to the Haul of Fame Kicking off Season 10 with Hassan's story is a celebration of resilience and transformation. His journey from a security manager in Congo to a respected truck driver in America reminds us that every road we travel is paved with stories waiting to be told.  For more of Hassan's inspiring insights and to dive deeper into his story, listen to the full episode of the Stevens Transport Roadside Radio Podcast. Team Driving Discover the transformative world of team driving with Stevens Transport in this insightful discussion. Learn how driving with a partner boosts efficiency, earning potential, and safety, while allowing for nearly constant travel and the enjoyment of America's stunning landscapes. Earn More/Team Up - https://vimeo.com/1020240977 Driver Spotlight: Richard Fertig Seven completed leases. 158 drivers trained. Fifteen years of showing up, putting in the work, and building something worth being proud of. Whether Richard is navigating the open roads of the American West or helping a brand-new driver pass their test on the first try, Richard brings the same dedication to everything he does. See the video here: https://youtu.be/7kEULH4-bT0?si=WEPPUu_oseafDnhe August 2026 Stevens News Bulletin This month we celebrate some extraordinary milestones, introduces a new member of the Stevens leadership team, and looks ahead to Driver Appreciation Week See the video here: https://vimeo.com/1217007141 Become a Driver for Stevens Transport For questions on whether you meet our driver qualifications, please call our Recruiting Department at 1-800-333-8595 or visit: www.stevenstransport.com/drivers/ Stevens Transport 9757 Military Parkway, Dallas, TX 75227 http://www.stevenstransport.com/ http://www.becomeadriver.com/ Driver Recruiting: 1-800-333-8595.  Apply Here: https://intelliapp2.driverapponline.com Paragon Leasing Technician Careers: https://www.stevenstransport.com/careers/fleet-maintenance-jobs/

Stevens Roundtable: Welcome Back, David Edge | A Driver-First Approach to Recruiting David Edge returns to Stevens Transport after 21 years to serve as the company's new Director of Driver Recruiting. Joining Trucker Tim on the Stevens Roundtable, David shares why coming back felt like coming home and discusses Stevens' commitment to putting drivers first. From introducing the role of Career Advisors instead of traditional recruiters to emphasizing world-class training, safety, and long-term relationships, David explains why Stevens continues to be one of the industry's premier places to build a trucking career. Team Driving Discover the transformative world of team driving with Stevens Transport in this insightful discussion. Learn how driving with a partner boosts efficiency, earning potential, and safety, while allowing for nearly constant travel and the enjoyment of America's stunning landscapes. Earn More/Team Up - https://vimeo.com/1020240977 Driver Spotlight: Thomas Andress II, Independent Contractor at Stevens Transport. Growing up in Dallas, Thomas built his trucking career from the ground up through hard work, financial discipline, and a willingness to keep learning. Now setting his sights on one million miles, Thomas shares the money-saving habits, work ethic, and life lessons that have helped him succeed as an Independent Contractor. See the video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=prJ2fiPhpoY Tip of the Big Ten Gallon Stevens Cap Congratulations to John Grantz | Three Million Safe Miles.  This week's Tip of the Big Ten Gallon Stevens Cap honors one of the true legends of Stevens Transport.  Company Driver John Grantz has reached an incredible milestone of three million safe miles after nearly 24 years with Stevens. Beyond his outstanding safety record, John has trained more than 150 professional drivers, helping shape the next generation of trucking professionals. Hear John's inspiring story of family, mentorship, and dedication as Stevens Transport proudly celebrates one of its very best. Become a Driver for Stevens Transport For questions on whether you meet our driver qualifications, please call our Recruiting Department at 1-800-333-8595 or visit: www.stevenstransport.com/drivers/ Stevens Transport 9757 Military Parkway, Dallas, TX 75227 http://www.stevenstransport.com/ http://www.becomeadriver.com/ Driver Recruiting: 1-800-333-8595.  Apply Here: https://intelliapp2.driverapponline.com Paragon Leasing Technician Careers: https://www.stevenstransport.com/careers/fleet-maintenance-jobs/