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Ever wondered what it truly takes to be a responsible and safe truck driver on today's roads? Join me, Walker Gatlin, on this episode of the Rollin' 18 Podcast, where I promise you'll gain invaluable insights into the multifaceted duties and liabilities that come with the territory. Drawing from my 40 years behind the wheel, I share personal anecdotes from the 80s when we had to fix our own flat tires and manage our loads directly, highlighting the stark contrast with today's practices. From a cautionary tale about a driver's negligence on Facebook to stressing the importance of personal accountability, this episode is packed with real-world lessons that could save your job—or even your life.

We also tackle the crucial safety responsibilities that every truck driver must prioritize, particularly during drop and hook operations. Learn why thorough pre-trip and post-trip inspections are non-negotiable and get practical tips on using tools like temperature laser readers to avoid mechanical failures and legal liabilities. Compliance with federal motor carrier safety regulations is essential, and I break down industry-standard practices to keep you and the public safe. Plus, I'll share routine maintenance tips to ensure your vehicle stays in top condition. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, my heartfelt message is clear: stay safe, keep your rig in top shape, and remember, it's up to you to keep it between the lines.

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Can maintaining professional boundaries really be the key to a successful trucking career? Join me, Walter Gatlin, as I pull back the curtain on my 40-year journey in the trucking industry to share why it's crucial to keep your interactions with dispatchers, planners, and brokers strictly business. Learn why getting too close can make it challenging to refuse unreasonable requests and how this could impact your job performance. I'll also provide actionable strategies for handling tricky situations like tight loading schedules and misleading information—emphasizing the importance of documentation and swift resolution.

Facing an impossible load that disrupts your rest schedule? You're not alone. Tune in to hear about the critical need for adhering to safety protocols and conducting regular inspections of your truck and trailer. I'll discuss a real-life scenario where a driver's safety was at risk due to an unreasonable demand and share tips on how to communicate assertively and professionally with your dispatcher. Prioritize your well-being and family while keeping your career on track by mastering the fine line between professional and personal boundaries in the trucking industry.

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Could your personal data be at risk? We kick off this episode of the Rolling 18 Podcast with urgent news about a significant security breach at AT&T that has compromised customer information. This alarming incident underscores the importance of safeguarding our personal data in today's digital age. Following this critical update, I'm excited to bring you an inspiring conversation with Miss Flatbed Red, a gifted artist and social media maven who has carved out a unique niche capturing the charm of classic semi-trucks. From sketching pet portraits to immortalizing the grandeur of historic rigs, she shares how a trip to the Mid-America Truck Show in 2017 transformed her artistic journey. You'll hear about her ventures at the Iowa 80 Truck Show, her dream trucks, and how her artwork has evolved over the years.

Next, we'll shift gears to discuss various truck styles and preferences, featuring her top 20 list split between cab-overs and conventionals. Managing a bustling social media presence across platforms like Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube while juggling a rigorous schedule—teaching piano and creating digital truck renderings—is no easy feat. We also highlight memorable truck shows, such as the Great Lakes Truck Club event in Ontario, known for its warm and welcoming vibe. A recent investment in a new computer marks a significant commitment to improving video content quality. Wrapping up, we reflect on the joys and freedoms of life on the road, with a special nod to Miss Flatbed Red’s captivating YouTube content. Buckle up and join us for an episode packed with updates, inspiration, and a deep love for the trucking community.

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Text me anytime with news, suggestions, and stories at (641) 990-5641. God bless, be safe, and keep it between the lines drivers.

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Ever wondered how artificial intelligence is reshaping the trucking industry? Join me, Walter Gatlin, on this episode of Rollin' 18 Podcast, where we promise you'll discover how AI is revolutionizing road safety, driver support, and efficiency in the face of modern-day pressures. As the backbone of America's supply chain faces increased demands from dispatchers and electronic logging devices, we highlight the importance of drivers maintaining control as the true captains of their ships, making responsible decisions for their safety and the safety of others on the road.

Dive deeper into how AI is being practically implemented within the industry, from driver and customer support to freight tracking and monitoring driver alertness. We weigh the benefits and challenges of AI adoption, emphasizing how automation can help drivers focus on driving by managing ancillary tasks. Plus, we discuss the evolving landscape of technology pilots that make it easier for fleets to test and deploy new innovations. Don't miss our crucial safety recall update for certain Peterbilt and Kenworth trucks due to a serious steering issue—your safety depends on it. Tune in for a comprehensive discussion blending safety, technology, and critical industry updates to keep you informed and prepared.

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Curious about the future of the trucking industry and the challenges it faces? Join me, Walter Gatlin, as I read from David Spencer, Vice President of Market Intelligence, to uncover why a full rate recovery might be a distant dream until 2025. We’ll explore the complex topic of immigration, making crucial distinctions between legal and illegal entries, and discuss how this affects our fellow drivers. Plus, we’ll dive into the urgent issue of Hurricane Beryl, which threatens South Texas, and why staying vigilant and safe is more critical than ever.

Keeping your finger on the pulse of the trucking world has never been more essential. This episode of the Rollin' 18 Podcast will equip you with invaluable insights into employment trends, including why you should think twice before switching jobs during these uncertain times. Learn about recent shifts in warehousing jobs, declining long-distance truckload positions, and fluctuations in truck transportation wages. With practical advice on maintaining job stability and financial prudence, this is one episode you won’t want to miss. Stay informed, stay prepared, and stay safe on the road.

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What does it really take to be a professional truck driver on America's highways? Join us on the Rollin' 18 Podcast as we bring you firsthand insights from NATSO's CEO, Lisa Mullings, and Werner Enterprises driver, Jennifer Evans. After a week-long, 1,200-mile journey together, Lisa and Jennifer share their unique perspectives on the daily challenges faced by truck drivers and how these experiences can drive improvements at truck stops and travel plazas. We promise this conversation will be a game-changer in understanding and addressing the needs of those who keep our economy moving.

But that's not all – we'll also explore the often-overlooked benefits of having precise location information for parking spaces. Imagine the advantage of being able to direct emergency services or delivery drivers to a specific spot without any hassle. Whether it's a DoorDash delivery or an unexpected encounter with wildlife, knowing exactly where you are can make a world of difference. As always, we extend our heartfelt gratitude for your continued support and encourage you to connect with us on social media. Buckle up and enjoy the ride!

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How do foreign truck drivers navigate the complex cultural landscape of the U.S. trucking industry? Today’s episode grapples with this question head-on, offering an honest look into the lives of international drivers like an Australian trucker anxious about fitting in. I discuss how respectful communication on the CB radio and adherence to local driving regulations can bridge the gap between foreign and domestic drivers. By sharing real-life stories, I underscore the importance of mutual understanding and adaptation to promote harmony and camaraderie on the road.

In our next segment, we confront the sensitive issues of cultural differences and perceived racism within the trucking community. Through personal anecdotes and insights, I illustrate how misunderstandings and broader frustrations often masquerade as racism, highlighting the need for clearer communication and respect. By shedding light on the experiences of various communities, I aim to foster a more inclusive and cohesive environment. Tune in to discover how cultural assimilation and awareness can enhance safety and unity for all drivers on the road.

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Have you ever wondered about the hidden dangers truck drivers face on the road? This episode tackles the tragic and perplexing death of David Schultz, a trucker whose life was cut short by hyperthermia after ingesting methamphetamine. Uncover the haunting timeline from his disappearance in November 2023 to the grim discovery of his body months later. We emphasize the critical importance of truckers watching out for one another and reflect on the profound loss felt by Schultz's family and the entire trucking community. Through another case involving Brian Lush, we underscore the necessity for vigilance and mutual support in this tight-knit industry.

We also address pressing safety concerns in the transportation sector, focusing particularly on the risks associated with marijuana use and current drug testing protocols. Hear about the American Trucking Association's (ATA) firm stance on maintaining robust drug testing, especially in safety-sensitive positions such as commercial trucking, busing, airlines, and rail. Stay informed about the latest updates, including the opening of Love's Travel Stop on I-44 in Sarcoxie, Missouri, which provides essential parking for truck drivers. Our message is clear: the responsibility of staying sober and vigilant is crucial to ensuring the safety of everyone on the road. Join us for a deeply impactful conversation that highlights the weighty responsibilities truck drivers carry and the collective effort needed to support each other.

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Text me anytime with news, suggestions, and stories at (641) 990-5641. God bless, be safe, and keep it between the lines drivers.