Driving Success: A Fleet Advantage Podcast

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May 2026

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Welcome to Driving Success: A Fleet Advantage Podcast! Discover how we serve America’s Top Transportation fleets, ensuring the lowest cost of ownership through specialty financing, fleet data analytics, fleet management services, and life cycle cost management. Join us as we explore industry trends and insights to keep transportation professionals informed and inspired. Let's drive solutions together.

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16 recent

May 19, 20266 min

EP. 16: Heavy-Duty Truck Fleets Use of AI: 2026 Industry Survey Results

In this episode of Driving Success, Tracy Derival sits down with Mac Hudson, CTP, Senior Off-Lease Manager at Fleet Advantage, live from the 2026 NPTC Annual Conference, to discuss the latest “Use of AI in Fleets” survey findings. The conversation explores the rapid rise of generative AI adoption across private fleets, the growing data integration challenges limiting deeper operational returns, and the major untapped opportunities AI presents for organizations with transportation fleets.Chapters:00:00 Introduction00:46 Mac Hudson’s Background & Role01:27 Why Generative AI Adoption Has Surged02:40 Challenges with AI04:20 Untapped Opportunities for AI in Fleet Operations05:39 Closing🤝 Connect with us on LinkedIn!Mac Hudson ➡ https://www.linkedin.com/in/mac-hudson-ab690b61/Tracy Derival ➡https://www.linkedin.com/in/tracy-derival-451a55126/See the full survey results here! ➡ https://www.fleetadvantage.com/press-releases/fleet-advantage-survey-finds-generative-ai-has-taken-hold-in-private-fleets-but-data-gaps-are-blocking-deeper-returnsVisit our website! ➡ https://www.fleetadvantage.com/

January 27, 20269 min

EP. 15: The Pre Buy Is Back: Why Fleets Cannot Afford to Wait on EPA 2027

In this episodeof Driving Success, Tracy Derival and Brian Antonellis, SVP of Fleet Operations at Fleet Advantage, discuss the confirmed EPA 2027 NOx regulations and why the truck pre-buy is officially back. With the EPA holding firm on the 35 mg standard, fleets face shrinking 2026 build availability, rising OEM costs, and increased allocation risk. Brian explains the financial implications, why private fleets are moving early, and the critical steps organizations must take now to control costs and secure equipment ahead of 2027.Chapters:00:00 Introduction01:52 The Pre-Buy Coming Back02:33 Underestimating Build Slots and Pricing03:30 Financial Implications 04:15 Private Fleets Acting Now05:55 Important Actions for Fleets to Make🤝 Connect with us on LinkedIn!Brian Antonellis ➡ https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-a-35713420/Tracy Derival ➡https://www.linkedin.com/in/tracy-derival-451a55126/Visit our website! ➡ https://www.fleetadvantage.com/

November 18, 202514 min

EP 14: OffLease Reimagined: Modernizing the Lease Surrender Process

In this episode, Tracy Derival sits down with Matt de Aguiar, Chief Operating Officer; Brian Antonellis, SVP, Fleet Operations; and Jackie Dusseau, VP, Data Analytics & Corporate Development, to discuss the launch of OffLease Reimagined, Fleet Advantage’s innovative platform for modernizing truck lease surrenders. The team explores how the software streamlines workflows, leverages real-time data and automation, and delivers measurable savings and operational efficiencies. Tune in to hear how OffLease Reimagined is driving transformation in fleet management and equipment finance, and learn about the award-winning solutions helping fleets save time, reduce costs, and gain transparency across the lease lifecycle.Chapters:00:00 Introduction to Fleet Advantage Team02:14 Introduction to OffLease ReImagined03:37 Collaboration in Launching OffLease Reimagined04:48 Operational Gaps in the Lease Surrender Process05:54 Understanding Customer Needs and Data Integration07:20 Leveraging Data for Actionable Insights09:02 Success and Industry Impacts12:11 Future of OffLease Reimagined🤝 Connect with us on LinkedIn!Matt de Aguiar ➡ https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthewdeaguiar/ Brian Antonellis ➡ https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-a-35713420/ Jackie Dusseau ➡ https://www.linkedin.com/in/jackie-dusseau-clfp-88667059/ Tracy Derival ➡ https://www.linkedin.com/in/tracy-derival-451a55126/Visit our website! ➡ https://www.fleetadvantage.com/

August 25, 202510 min

EP 13: CVSA's Brake Safety Week 2025

In this episode, Tracy Derival and Matt Wiedmeyer, CTP, Director of Fleet Operations & Maintenance, discuss CVSA’s Brake Safety Week 2025 with a special focus on drums and rotors. They explore why brake-related violations continue to top the charts for out-of-service orders and what fleets can do to better prepare. This episode delivers timely insights that help drivers and fleet operators stay compliant, avoid costly violations, and prioritize safety on the road.Chapters:00:00 Introduction and Background01:42 Brake Safety Week Refresh and Goals02:24 Common Brake Related Violations02:56 Tips for Drivers' Pre and Post-Trip Inspections04:37 CVSA’s 2024 Unannounced Safety Inspection06:11 New Statistics for Brake Safety Week08:49 Conclusion of Summer of Safety Series🤝 Connect with us on LinkedIn!Matt Wiedmeyer ➡ https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthewwiedmeyerctp/Tracy Derival ➡ https://www.linkedin.com/in/tracy-derival-451a55126/Visit our website! ➡ https://www.fleetadvantage.com/

July 14, 20259 min

EP. 12: CVSA’s Operation Safe Driver Week 2025

In this episode, Tracy Derival and Nathan Rhoads, CTP, Director of Fleet Services at Fleet Advantage, break down CVSA’s Operation Safe Driver Week 2025. They discuss current enforcement priorities, the importance of proactive driver behavior, and how the latest TRUST Index data reveals areas for improvement. Whether you're managing a fleet or out on the road, this episode delivers practical insights to help keep everyone safer.Chapters:00:00 Introduction to Nathan Rhoads & Operation Safe Driver Week02:40 Key Statistics from Last Year's Campaign03:35 Focus Areas for This Year's Campaign04:56 Educating Drivers for Long-Term Safety06:44 New Insights for This Year07:43 Conclusion🤝 Connect with us on LinkedIn!Nathan Rhoads ➡ https://www.linkedin.com/in/nathan-rhoads-232915134/Tracy Derival ➡https://www.linkedin.com/in/tracy-derival-451a55126/Visit our website! ➡ https://www.fleetadvantage.com/

June 30, 20258 min

EP. 11: National Tire Safety Week 2025

In this episode, Tracy Derival and Wesley Hall, CTP, Director of Fleet Operations & Off Lease at Fleet Advantage, return for the second annual Summer of Safety series to explore the continued importance of National Tire Safety Week. Together, they highlight how the right tire selection, consistent air pressure management, and proper inspection tools can significantly impact fleet safety, performance, and cost efficiency. With updated insights for 2025, this episode offers practical guidance to help fleets reduce downtime, avoid road failures, and protect their drivers.Chapters:00:00 Introduction & Background on Wes Hall01:38 Refresher on National Tire Safety Week02:12 Understanding Tire Categories and Their Impact03:10 The Importance of Tire Pressure Management04:44 Essential Tools for Tire Inspections06:17 Current Trends and Statistics in Tire Safety🤝 Connect with us on LinkedIn!Wes Hall ➡ https://www.linkedin.com/in/wesley-hall-ctp-323367a/Tracy Derival ➡https://www.linkedin.com/in/tracy-derival-451a55126/Visit our website! ➡ https://www.fleetadvantage.com/

April 8, 20256 min

EP. 10: Tariffs & Truck Procurement for Large Fleets What You Need to Know

In this episode, Tracy Derival and Brian Antonellis, CTP, SVP of Fleet Operations, discuss the looming impact of newly imposed tariffs, which began on April 2, 2025. With these tariffs initially affecting automakers and potentially extending to heavy-duty trucks, the conversation emphasizes the urgency for organizations with transportation fleets to reassess their procurement strategies and take swift action to mitigate cost increases. Brian shares valuable insights into the timelines for tariff-driven cost increases from equipment manufacturers, along with strategies for effectively navigating these changes.Chapters:00:00 Introduction01:45 Current Status of the Tariffs02:06 What Is the Impact for Fleets & Time Frames03:10 Strategizing for the Future04:06 Final Thoughts and Actionable Insights🤝 Connect with us on LinkedIn!Brian Antonellis ➡ https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-a-35713420/Tracy Derival ➡https://www.linkedin.com/in/tracy-derival-451a55126/Visit our website! ➡ https://www.fleetadvantage.com/

February 12, 20259 min

EP. 9: Navigating Regulatory Shifts

In this episode, Tracy Derival and Brian Antonellis, CTP, SVP of Fleet Operations, discuss the recent shakeup in the transportation industry as CARB rescinds its waiver request for the Advanced Clean Fleet (ACF) regulation. They break down the implications of this shift and what it means for companies with transportation fleets. Tune in as they explore strategies for adapting to regulatory changes, the importance of a five-year plan, and how fleet managers can balance sustainability goals with immediate cost pressures.Chapters:00:00 Introduction01:38 What Happened with the CARB Mandate?03:11 Current Status and Implications for Fleets04:27 Strategizing for the Future05:35 Balancing Sustainability and Cost07:05 Final Thoughts and Actionable Insights🤝 Connect with us on LinkedIn!Brian Antonellis ➡ https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-a-35713420/Tracy Derival ➡https://www.linkedin.com/in/tracy-derival-451a55126/Visit our website! ➡ https://www.fleetadvantage.com/

January 8, 202521 min

EP 8: Beyond the Unbundled Lease: Optimizing Fleet Maintenance with Cox Automotive

In Part 2 of our Full-Service Lease vs. Unbundled Lease series, Tracy Derival is joined by Paul Gildenhorn (Sr. Director, National Sales), Brian Welke (Sr. National Account Executive), and Jeff Werstak (Director, Business Development) from FleetNet America by Cox Automotive. They discuss the maintenance options available when unbundling a lease and share expert insights on optimizing fleet maintenance with the flexibility and benefits of a nationwide maintenance network.Chapters:00:00 Introduction to FleetNet America and Its Team02:02 Key Components of FleetNet America's Maintenance Solutions04:23 Benefits of Fleet Maintenance In An Unbundled Lease06:36 Nationwide Network of Service Providers09:48 Addressing Rising Costs in Fleet Maintenance12:36 Real-World Benefits of FleetNet America's Solutions16:43 Future Trends in Fleet Maintenance🤝 Connect with us on LinkedIn!Paul Gildenhorn ➡ https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-g-6266026/Brian Welke ➡ https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-welke-0b031a20/Jeff Werstak ➡ https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeff-werstak-1b7bb78/Tracy Derival ➡https://www.linkedin.com/in/tracy-derival-451a55126/Visit our website! ➡ https://www.fleetadvantage.com/

September 10, 20249 min

EP 7: IAA 2024 Transportation Show

In this episode, Tracy Derival and Brian Antonellis, CTP, SVP of Fleet Operations, discuss the upcoming IAA 2024 Transportation Show. They highlight the significance of participating in the event, discuss the sessions Brian is most excited about, and cover timely topics like EV charging infrastructure and sustainable transport. They also touch on Europe’s lead in heavy-duty truck transportation and logistics and tease an exciting new offering from Fleet Advantage that will be unveiled at IAA.Chapters:00:00 Introduction and Brian's Background01:54 What Is IAA & Why Is It Important02:41 IAA Transportation Sessions Shows Interest In Alternative Fuels03:46 Importance of Discussing Alternative Fuels Now05:20 Europe vs US: The Race in Heavy-Duty Truck Transportation07:07 Exciting Offering Unveiled at IAA: Making the Transition Easier08:02 Stay Tuned for Live Updates During IAA🤝 Connect with us on LinkedIn!Brian Antonellis ➡ https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-a-35713420/Tracy Derival ➡ https://www.linkedin.com/in/tracy-derival-451a55126/Visit our website! ➡ https://www.fleetadvantage.com/