Stevens Transport Roadside Radio Podcast

S09 E186

Stevens Roundtable: Braden Birk's Promotion to Senior Transformation Manager Trucker Tim sits down with Braden Birk to celebrate his promotion to Senior Transformation Manager at Stevens Transport. Braden shares his five-year journey through the company, the importance of understanding every aspect of the business, and how his new role will help improve processes, technology, and the overall driver experience. From exploring AI solutions to reduce wait times to streamlining company operations, Braden offers a behind-the-scenes look at how Stevens Transport continues investing in innovation and its people. It's also a great reminder that Stevens is a company built on growth, offering incredible opportunities for career advancement both behind the wheel and inside the corporate team. 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 Meet Thomas Andress II, Independent Contractor at Stevens Transport!  Thomas grew up in Dallas, Texas, and built his trucking career from the ground up, starting with hands-on training at Lone Star and working his way toward a major milestone. Now he's setting his sights on 1 million miles. In this Driver Spotlight, Thomas shares the work ethic, money-saving strategies, and road wisdom that have kept him thriving as an independent contractor. See the video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=prJ2fiPhpoY Stevens Transport Safety Reminder: Hurricane Season Safety Reminder Hurricane season is officially underway. If you are traveling into areas where storms may impact operations, Trucker Tim shares som important safety guidelines from afety Supervisor, Terrence Burgess. 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/

The Stevens Transport Roadside Radio Podcast - Episode 185

The Stevens Transport Roadside Radio Podcast - Episode 184

Stevens Roundtable: How to Earn More Money as a Truck Driver with Hazmat Endorsement In this episode, Corey Childress from Stevens Transport discusses the opportunities and process for drivers to obtain their Hazmat endorsement, how it can increase earnings, and the support provided by Stevens Transport to make the process simple and accessible. Stevens Transport is offering drivers the chance to make more money by hauling Hazmat loads. And don't worry, these aren't explosives! We're talking soaps and disinfectants that you might even use at home. Getting your Hazmat endorsement is easier than you think! With online theory training that takes just about 40 minutes, you can complete it on your phone during downtime. Plus, Stevens covers your background check costs and offers a $300 bonus once you're certified!  Imagine jumping to the front of the line for loads just by having that endorsement. More pay and faster dispatch—what's not to love? 40th Annual Bagel Run! BRING YOUR FAMILY and kick off Mother's Day at the 40th Annual Bagel Run! This perfect family activity takes place on Sunday, May 10, 2026. Run or walk through a scenic neighborhood course in a timed 10K, 5K, Kids K, or a virtual run. Sign up as an individual, with your family, or as a team. You can create your own team or let us place you with one.  Discover the excitement and camaraderie that fills the air as participants come together to support and raise funds for the Jewish Community Center of Dallas, where the community learns, celebrates, grows, and connects. Sign up here: https://runsignup.com/Race/TX/Dallas/BagelRun 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: Jalissa Smalls (Lady J) Meet Jalissa Smalls, also known as Lady J! Her passion for driving started at 12 years old behind the wheel of her uncle's Peterbilt. Now Jalissa is an independent contractor with Stevens Transport, and she hasn't looked back. Ready to write your own story? Contracting classes every Thursday, 11:30 AM – 12:30 PM. See the video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o79qPpvY5f0 Stevens Transport May 2026 News Bulletin See the Video Here: https://vimeo.com/1188088174 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/

The Stevens Transport Roadside Radio Podcast - Episode 183

Stevens Roundtable: Back in the Nest: Willie Byrd Returns In this Stevens Roundtable, Trucker Tim welcomes back a familiar and beloved face to the Stevens family, Willie Byrd. After five years away, Willie returns with renewed passion, sharing his journey from fuel management to contractor recruiting and now into leadership. His people-first philosophy, building trust, relationships, and opportunity, highlights what makes Stevens Transport special and why drivers continue to thrive here. 40th Annual Bagel Run! BRING YOUR FAMILY and kick off Mother's Day at the 40th Annual Bagel Run! This perfect family activity takes place on Sunday, May 10, 2026. Run or walk through a scenic neighborhood course in a timed 10K, 5K, Kids K, or a virtual run. Sign up as an individual, with your family, or as a team. You can create your own team or let us place you with one. Discover the excitement and camaraderie that fills the air as participants come together to support and raise funds for the Jewish Community Center of Dallas, where the community learns, celebrates, grows, and connects. Sign up here: https://runsignup.com/Race/TX/Dallas/BagelRun If you're an employee, check your Stevens email for special sign-up instructions. 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: Gerald Dubriel Gerald started with Stevens Transport in 1994, driving out of Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Thirty years and 3 million miles later, he'll tell you it was never about chasing a number. As a tanker driver, he's mastered a skill set most drivers never try. His advice to anyone starting out? Be patient. Don't rush.  At Stevens, he says it simply: they treat you like family, and they have your back. See the video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4mFtLqMYaXo From Rookie to Trainer: How to Grow Your Trucking Career Trucker Tim connects with a Stevens Transport driver and trainer, Joshua Baublit, who shares real-life insights from the road. From making the leap into trucking to stepping into a training role just six months in, he breaks down how drivers can grow their income and career. The conversation highlights the realities of life on the road, the importance of the right mindset, and what separates those who succeed from those who don't. Plus, hear firsthand how training others not only boosts earnings but builds lasting connections. If you're considering trucking or looking to level up, this is a must-listen. 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/

The Stevens Transport Roadside Radio Podcast - Episode 182

Stevens Roundtable: Boost Your Pay with Tanker & Hazmat  In this Stevens Roundtable, Trucker Tim sits down with Rachel Easley, Director of Driver & Safety Services, to break down two simple ways drivers can boost their income: tanker and hazmat endorsements. From quick, low-cost certification steps to real earning potential—including bonuses and additional pay per load—this segment outlines how adding endorsements can open the door to more freight, less downtime, and a stronger paycheck. If you're looking to expand your skillset and make more money on the road, this is one opportunity you don't want to miss. Tip of the Stevens Cap - 2025 Drivers of the Year In this special "Tip of the Stevens Cap" segment, we celebrate the incredible drivers, trainers, and professionals who continue to set the standard across Stevens Transport. From award-winning teams and owner-operators to dedicated trainers and milestone-achieving drivers, these stories highlight what makes this company truly different; commitment, resilience, mentorship, and a deep sense of family. Whether it's millions of safe miles, stepping up in moments that matter, or helping others succeed on the road, this segment is a powerful reminder that at Stevens, it's not just about the journey, it's about the people who make it meaningful every mile. 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 Drivers Spotlight: Elmeo "Moses" Franklin Jr. From warehouse work to tile jobs to remodeling homes, Moses took a different path before finding his place behind the wheel. Now he's a trainer and independent contractor at Stevens Transport, and his name is on the Wall of Fame. His advice to anyone starting out? Stick with it. There are going to be ups and downs, but that's true of anything worth doing.  Interested in becoming an independent contractor? Join the workshop every Thursday at 11:30 AM in the VPD room. See the video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2cmMNIh37yU April 2026 - News Bulletin Stevens Transport brings you the latest updates on the transportation industry in our Monthly News Bulletin! In this month's bulletin, we celebrate awards earned in 2023, honor two of our newest retirees, and congratulate our newest Haul of Fame inductees! You can read more about these stories and others in our quarterly Birdseye Newsletter here: https://www.stevenstransport.com/news/ See the video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GzVo8tKSEQY Trucker Song - Jason Aldean - Asphalt Cowboy "Asphalt Cowboy" by Jason Aldean, from his 2005 debut album, is a country song about the loneliness, longing, and dedication of a truck driver devoted to his partner while living on the road. It explores the conflict between pursuing a nomadic passion and the desire to be home.  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MO7geIy2HEo Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/album/asphalt-cowboy/1685921181?i=1685921191 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/track/3tDXtL32vrfIpw3U0I5OWv?si=493483f6aa9e4a4d 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/

The Stevens Transport Roadside Radio Podcast - Episode 181

Stevens Roundtable: Three Time Hall of Famer, Gerald Dubreil  This episode's roundtable features Gerald Dubreil, a three-time Hall of Famer with over three million miles, who shares his journey as an independent contractor and tanker driver. He highlights the freedom of life on the road—no one looking over your shoulder, just you, the truck, and the open highway. Gerald also explains how simple it is to transition into tanker driving with the right endorsement and how it can increase earning potential. His biggest advice? Stay grounded, use common sense, and leave entitlement behind to build a long, successful career. Spring Driving Safety Reminder – Terrance Burgess Terrance Burgess delivers a timely spring driving safety reminder, emphasizing how quickly weather conditions can change during this season. Drivers are encouraged to thoroughly inspect their equipment, monitor forecasts, and stay alert for hazards like hydroplaning, high winds, potholes, and construction zones. He reinforces safe driving habits such as maintaining distance, avoiding distractions, and taking breaks to combat fatigue. Preparation, awareness, and staying proactive are key to staying safe and efficient on the road. 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 Drivers Spotlight: Nicholas Bentz Meet Nicholas Bentz: OTR driver, trainer, and contractor. Bentz has done it all at Stevens Transport, and now he's passing that knowledge on to the next generation of drivers. Ready to take the next step? Stevens Transport hosts an independent contractor workshop every Thursday at 11:30am–12:30pm. See the video here: https://youtu.be/FcDFxXU_cxA?si=Z2kHY8zI7co8Z8jx March 2026 - News Bulletin This month's Stevens Transport News Bulletin highlights several opportunities for drivers to increase earnings and advance their careers. Drivers are encouraged to obtain their Hazmat endorsement, which comes with financial incentives, reimbursement, and access to higher-paying loads. The company is also actively recruiting tanker drivers and trainers, offering additional income potential and leadership opportunities. Additionally, the independent contractor program continues to be a major pathway for drivers looking to own their business with strong company support. See the video here: https://vimeo.com/1165493600 Trucker Song - Driving My Life Away - Eddie Rabbitt "Driving My Life Away" by Eddie Rabbitt, perfectly capturing the rhythm and solitude of life on the road. The song mirrors the everyday experience of drivers, long highways, late nights, and the pursuit of something better ahead. It adds a nostalgic, relatable touch that connects deeply with the trucking lifestyle. A fitting soundtrack for those chasing miles and meaning across America. YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s6JJ1qoS_0w 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/

The Stevens Transport Roadside Radio Podcast - Episode 180

Stevens Roundtable: Tanker & Hazmat: Open More Doors Corey Childress, Assistant Manager of Driver Services and Qualifications, shares exciting new earning opportunities for Stevens drivers. Stevens is currently seeking at least 10 drivers to obtain their Hazmat endorsement, offering free online training through CDL Power Suite, full reimbursement for testing costs (with receipts), and a $300 bonus once the endorsement is added to the driver's license. Drivers can complete the approximately 2.5-hour training at their convenience before scheduling fingerprinting, background checks, and the written exam. Stevens is also expanding opportunities in the Tanker Division, providing study guides and resources for drivers interested in adding a tanker endorsement to further increase freight options and earning potential. Drivers interested in either endorsement can: Email: safetyservices@stevenstransport.com Call: Driver Services/Qualifications at Extension 7902 Visit: Driver Services or Qualifications in person Stevens continues to prioritize opening new lanes of opportunity for drivers to grow their careers and increase their income potential. 2025 Company Driver of the Year Trucker Tim interviews "royalty" driver Robert Belford, who has been with Stevens since 1995 and has now surpassed 4 million safe miles, earning his place in the Hall of Fame four times. Robert shares simple, powerful advice for any driver who wants longevity and success Robert is the 2025 Company Driver of the Year, recognized for his consistency, leadership, and humble work ethic. 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: Raymond Hatchette Jr. Meet Stevens Transport independent contractor and trainer Raymond Hatchette, Jr.! Raymond shares the journey he's taken from military service to transitioning to a civilian career, highlighting the importance of being patient and working hard, while feeling grateful for the opportunity to teach the next generation of truck drivers. See the video here: https://youtu.be/upnzC79uMfI?si=8vj9-RZJZpj8UOca February 2026 - News Bulletin In this Stevens Transport News Bulletin, we proudly celebrate the 2025 Driver of the Year Award recipients, We also share important fleet updates, including opportunities to earn more through hazmat and tanker endorsements, an upcoming Independent Contractor Workshop, active recruiting for tanker drivers and trainers, and details about Project Ascend, where employees and contractors can earn up to $25,000 for innovative cost-saving ideas. For more information, drivers can contact their driver manager or Driver Services at 800-468-0118 See the video here: https://vimeo.com/1165493600 Maximize Your Earnings by Getting Hazmat Certified Higher Load Pay: Earn extra on top of your miles for every Hazmat load hauled. You are already driving the miles; make sure you are getting paid top-tier rates for them. Contact Driver Services to get your reimbursement started! 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/

The Stevens Transport Roadside Radio Podcast - Episode 179

Episode Notes Stevens Roundtable: In this Stevens Roundtable, Tim sits down with Allie Gilbert and Brett Cortopassi to pull back the curtain on Stevens' Independent Contractor (IC) program, and why it can be a game-changing path for drivers who want more freedom, more upside, and a real shot at building their own business. A Simple Gesture of Thanks from Stevens for Making the Right Safety Decision Sitting still while the clock ticks is one of the toughest parts of the job. But with severe weather that swept the country over the past couple of weeks, hundreds of our drivers made the professional decision to park it and prioritize safety over speed. Stevens simple gesture of thanks to our drivers. 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: Driver Spotlight: Leonard "Joe" De Jean Meet driver/trainer Leonard "Joe" De Jean.  After reaching his first million miles, Leonard has gained the knowledge and confidence through Stevens Transport to one day start his own trucking business. In this video, hear more about Leonard's journey, and get insight from one of his former students. See the video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mUDNTIELidQ Tip of the Stevens Ten-Gallon Hat Congrats to driver, Dawun Brinson, who finished his lease completion with Stevens Transport at the end of last year and driver, Lewis Williams who is now a permanent fixture in the Stevens Transport Haul of Fame  by logging One million miles with Stevens Transport. Maximize Your Earnings by Getting Hazmat Certified Higher Load Pay: Earn extra on top of your miles for every Hazmat load hauled. You are already driving the miles; make sure you are getting paid top-tier rates for them. Contact Driver Services to get your reimbursement started! 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/

The Stevens Transport Roadside Radio Podcast - Episode 178

Stevens Roundtable: In this Stevens Roundtable, Tim Cicciarelli and Stevens Safety Supervisor, Terrence Burgess discuss essential safety tips for truck drivers navigating adverse weather conditions. They emphasize the importance of trip planning, checking weather updates, and making informed decisions about driving in dangerous situations. Terrence shares insights on managing speed, maintaining control, and knowing when to seek help from the safety department or driver managers. The discussion aims to equip drivers with practical advice to ensure their safety and that of their cargo during challenging weather. 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. Understand how federal regulations intersect with teamwork logistics, enabling over 5,500 miles a week. Insights on rest strategies, like bunk bed sleeping arrangements, are shared. Stevens Transport explains the advantages of choosing your driving partner and how this approach can elevate your trucking career. Explore team driving's benefits and start your journey to success now. Earn More/Team Up - https://vimeo.com/1020240977 Driver Spotlight: Tyjae Horton Meet Tyjae Horton, an Independent Contractor from Atlanta, Georgia. He completed his first lease, and couldn't be more proud of the accomplishment. Outside of the lease completion, he enjoys training students because he wants to help future truckers. Learn more about Tyjae's journey at Stevens Transport! See the video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F5L_O5Wtht0 Women in Trucking TV News Story Trucker Tim shares a local television news story out of Columbus, Georgia, where a Stevens Driving Academy hosted a "Women in Trucking" event. You'll hear from students about what pushed them to finally take the leap, and what it means to step into a career that's opening doors for women nationwide. Tip of the Stevens Ten-Gallon Hat - Destarr Deblanc While the world saw another Stevens truck moving steadily toward its destination, Destarr DeBlanc was actually completing a journey of a different kind: her lease completion. This moment is the culmination of every decision made with integrity and every mile driven with a purpose. It represents the exact point where "working a job" officially transforms into "owning a future." 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/

The Stevens Transport Roadside Radio Podcast - Episode 177

Stevens Roundtable: Safety First: Preparing for the Winter Storm Tim Cicciarelli and Ken Resta, Stevens Transports Senior Director of Safety discuss the impending severe winter storm affecting a large portion of the United States. They emphasize the importance of driver safety and preparedness, outlining the expected weather conditions and the necessary precautions drivers should take. The conversation also highlights the support Stevens Transport provides to its drivers during such events, including communication strategies and resources available to ensure their safety and well-being. Key Takeaways: Drivers need to be aware of the severe weather conditions affecting their routes. Preparedness includes having extra supplies and planning for safe parking. Communication with driver managers is crucial during severe weather events. Drivers should make safety decisions early to avoid dangerous situations. The storm is expected to impact a significant portion of the country. Stevens Transport is committed to keeping drivers informed and safe. Drivers should expect weather updates through various communication channels. It's important to plan for potential delays in freight delivery due to weather. Safety protocols are in place to protect drivers during severe weather. Drivers are encouraged to take personal safety precautions when parked. 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/