Today on the podcast, we’re joined by someone who plays a major role in helping people start – and level up – their careers in transportation.

I’d like to welcome Adam from Northern Academy. Adam has joined us previously, his most recent episode 91 published in September 2025.

If you’ve ever wondered what the difference is between a DZ and an AZ license… if you’re not quite sure what air brakes actually mean for your career… or if you’re trying to figure out which license is the right fit for your goals — this conversation is for you.

Adam works directly with individuals who are entering the transportation industry for the first time, as well as experienced workers who are ready to upgrade their credentials. He sees firsthand the questions, the confusion, and sometimes the hesitation people have when they’re deciding to invest in training. And today, he’s here to break it all down in a clear and practical way.

We’re talking about the different classes of licenses —Whether you're looking at local driving opportunities, long-haul careers, construction, forestry, or industrial work, understanding the license structure is the first step.

One of the things I appreciate about Adam’s approach is that he focuses on helping people make informed decisions. Not everyone needs the same path.

So if you’ve been considering a career change, upgrading your license, or simply want clarity on what each class actually means — you’re going to get real value from this conversation.

Adam, welcome to the podcast — we’re excited to have you here and to dig into the different classes of licenses and what people need to know before they get started. Listen now

Topics discussed:

1. Different licenses- from A to Z

Links mentioned in this episode:

• https://natt.ca

This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm

This week, Derrick Hartley, Corporate Sales Manager at Natt Group, joins us to share insights into Natt Group, his career in sales and going above and beyond.

Topics discussed:

1. Early career and an amazing story of going above and beyond and getting the attention of the President of the company
2. Insights into Natt Group

Links mentioned in this episode:

• https://nattgroup.ca
• https://nattsafety.com
• Derrick's email dhartley@nattgroup.ca

This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm

This week, Brian Pattison, the General Manager of Northern Academy of Transportation Training joins us. Brian has had a full career in the trucking industry, starting as a truck driver himself, and working through the ranks, now as the General Manager of Northern Academy, a truck driving school in Lively, Ontario.

Topics discussed:

1. Brian's career in truck driving, to becoming the General Manager of Northern Academy
2. The MELT program and how that started
3. Questions to ask if you're considering a career as a truck driver

Links mentioned in this episode:

• www.northernacademy.ca
• Ideas for an episode? Email podcast@nattgroup.ca

This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm

This week, Tanja with Northern Academy joins us to share her favourite thing about teaching, her favourite class, and how she got into the industry.

Topics discussed:

1. Why Tanja loves teaching and her favourite course to teach
2. The favourite part of her job
3. Differences between the different truck licenses

Links mentioned in this episode:

• http://northernacademy.ca

This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm

This week, Donna Bethel with Platinum Executive Search joins us to share how you can use the rest of the year to gain a competitive advantage.

Topics discussed:

1. Reasons why acting now could actually give you a competitive edge
2. How recruitment departments can use Donna to save time and help fill roles
3. Different aspects of Executive Recruiting
4. How you can work with Donna to grow your team

Links mentioned in this episode:

• https://platinumexecutivesearch.ca
• https://platinumexecutivesearch.ca/2025/11/17/why-hiring-now-can-be-your-best-move-before-year-end/

This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm

This week, John joins the podcast to share some simple and effective winter safety tips to avoid slips, trips and falls.

Topics discussed:

1. Winter safety share
2. Avoiding slips, trips and falls

Links mentioned in this episode:

• www.nattsafety.com

This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm

This week, we're reflecting and planning!

We’re wrapping up the year, looking back on our top episodes — and planning our 2026 podcast lineup. What should we talk about next year?

Have an idea for a topic or conversation we should cover? Email podcast@nattgroup.ca

Topics discussed:

1. Reflecting over the past year
2. Planning for 2026- what episodes do you want to listen to?
3. Share your ideas with us podcast@nattgroup.ca

Links mentioned in this episode:

• www.nattgroup.ca/podcast

This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm

This week, David Henry joins the podcast to share a very vulnerable and brave story of Brain Injuries and Mental health challenges. *Warning, this episode contains sensitive topics that may be upsetting to some listeners.

Topics discussed:

1. Accidents that David experienced
2. David shares his Survive to Drive program
3. Mental health discussion

Links mentioned in this episode:

• Surviving Brain Injury | David Henry | TEDxUniversityofWinnipeg https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SNZJWqt42lo
• For mental health support in Canada, you can call or text 9-8-8: Suicide Crisis Helpline anytime, or call 9-1-1 for immediate danger.
• https://www.ementalhealth.ca Mental Health Services
• Instagram @survivetodrive and Twitter @crazycanuckdave
• https://crazycanucktruckin.com/davids-journey

This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm