Trucking Risk and Insurance Podcast

Hosted by John Farquhar & Chris Harris

Business EducationInterviews guests

Website RSS feed

Episodes

228

Latest episode

Jun 2026

Language

EN-US

About the show

Stop letting insurance rates and safety risks stall your fleet. Join the TRUCKING Risk and Insurance Podcast for the straight goods on staying safe and profitable. Hosted by industry veterans Chris Harris and John Farquhar , this is the #1 ranked trucking podcast in Canada. With over 60 years of combined experience, "The Safety Dawgs" provide an irreverent, unfiltered look at the pitfalls, risks, and complexities of trucking insurance. Every week, we sit down with the industry elite to help you: Lower Insurance Premiums: Learn what underwriters actually look for. Master Safety Compliance: Navigate CVOR audits and FMCSA regulations without the headache. Manage Risk: Real-world "you ain't seen nothin' yet" stories and how to avoid them. Whether you are a small fleet owner or a safety manager, grab a coffee and join us as we navigate the trucking terrain with veteran wisdom and a bit of humor. Stay safe, stay compliant, and keep your rigs rolling. You can contact us at John Farquhar, John@summitrisksolutions.ca 1 226 802 2762; Chris Harris, Chris@safetydawg.com 905 973 7056

Listen to episodes

60 recent

June 10, 2026Episode 1530 min

How to Cut Through the AI Hype and Streamline Your Trucking Operations

Send us Fan MailEvery software vendor is rushing to add a brand-new AI feature to your TMS, dispatch, and telematics systems. But is it actually helping your fleet, or is it just doubling your software headaches?In this episode of the Trucking Risk and Insurance Podcast, host Chris Harris flies solo to tackle the massive wave of artificial intelligence hitting logistics. He is joined by Johnny Than, founder of Appficiency, a global tech services firm that specializes in building tailored solutions for "off-the-beaten-path" industries like trucking, construction, and engineered manufacturing.Johnny breaks down why fleets are currently drowning in software choices and how the true future of logistics isn't managing ten different AI tools—it's establishing a single, streamlined "orchestration layer."Tune in to learn how to stop talking technology, start talking business, and shift your company toward a single-conversation software stack that drives real bottom-line efficiency.🔗 Learn more about Johnny Than and his team: https://www.appficiency.comEmail: prospects@appficiencyinc.comIf you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a colleague in the transportation industry!Johnny Than is the CEO and founder of Appficiency, where he helps organizations improve operational visibility and financial performance through modern enterprise systems. With more than 30 years of IT and business technology experience, he has advised more than 300 mid-market and Fortune 500 companies. He holds an MBA from McMaster University.#Trucking #Logistics #AI #FleetManagement #TruckingPodcast #SoftwareStack #SafetyDawg #Appficiency #TRIPodcastTIMESTAMPS / CHAPTER MARKERS00:00 - Introduction: Meet Johnny Than from Appficiency01:23 - The AI Explosion in Logistics & Trucking01:59 - The Real Problem Appficiency Solves for Hidden Industries03:32 - Mapping Software Taxonomy directly to Business Processes05:06 - The Nightmare of Fragmented AI: Managing 10 Software Tools vs. 1 Layer07:07 - What Fleets Actually Want: Shifting to One ConversationSupport the show

June 3, 2026Episode 1432 min

Beyond the Hype: Building a Human-AI Hybrid Model for Modern Fleets

Send us Fan MailTBeyond the Hype: Building a Human-AI Hybrid Model for Modern FleetsWhen we talk about managing risk and controlling costs in trucking and logistics, we usually focus on what’s right in front of us: drivers, trucks, and insurance premiums. But the operational landscape is shifting rapidly. Artificial Intelligence and digital transformations are no longer future buzzwords—they are actively reshaping procurement and supply chains today. In this episode, host Chris Harris (The Safety Dawg) and co-host John Farquhar, sit down with global experts Kenneth Sievers and Laurent Coulon from EFESO Management Consultants. They break down exactly how fleets can cut through the AI hype, navigate organizational readiness, and find measurable value without losing the crucial human element. Whether you manage a mid-sized fleet or a large logistics organization, this conversation delivers a practical blueprint for the future. Learn more about EFESO Management Consultants:👉 Website: https://www.efeso.com/ EFESO (LinkedIn): https://www.linkedin.com/company/efeso/posts/?feedView=allKenneth Sievers (LinkedIn): https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-kenneth-sievers-73254320b/Laurent Coulon (LinkedIn): https://www.linkedin.com/in/lcoulon/?originalSubdomain=frCHAPTERS:00:00 - Introduction & Guest Welcomes01:50 - What is EFESO Management Consultants?04:26 - How AI is Reshaping Trucking and Logistics06:15 - Prioritization: Moving Past the Hype Cycle07:15 - EFESO’s Global Footprint and Implementation Model10:05 - The 4 Main Reasons Logistics Fleets Seek Operational Help11:35 - Helping Small and Mid-Sized Operators Overcome Tech Fear13:22 - The Bottom Line: If AI Doesn't Save Time or Money, It's Bullshit14:46 - The Hybrid Model: Why People and Trust Matter More Than Technology16:00 - Rethinking Traditional Procurement & Prompting Tools18:36 - Coaching Tasks vs. Large-Scale Corporate Adoption20:52 - The 7-Minute Automated AI Negotiation Playbook22:00 - De-risking and Automating the "Painful" Administrative Tasks23:49 - Moving From Innovation to Practical Performance Levers25:16 - Kenneth’s 3-Step Strategy Blueprint for AI Fleet Readiness27:00 - Who is the Ideal Client for EFESO?28:34 - Outro & How to Contact the Experts Connect with the Trucking Risk and Insurance Podcast:🌐 Main Website: truckingriskandinsurance.com[cite: 1]Enjoyed the episode? Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for weekly insights on fleet safety, risk reduction, and operational excellence!#Trucking #Logistics #AI #FleetSafety #Procurement #SupplyChain #SafetyDawghis video is about EFESOSupport the show

June 3, 2026Episode 1326 min

Solving the Truck Parking Crisis: Dynamic Software for a Fragmented Industry

Send us Fan MailSolving the Truck Parking Crisis: Dynamic Software for a Fragmented IndustryThe North American trucking industry faces a persistent and frustrating challenge: a horrendous shortage of safe truck parking. It is a true "catch-22"—while everyone relies on the goods trucks deliver, few want a truck yard in their own backyard.In this episode of the Trucking Risk and Insurance Podcast, we sit down with Joe Caivano (COO) and Venu Kolli (CEO), the co-founders of Best Truck Parking and SpotOS. They share their journey from building a truck lot from scratch in New Jersey to developing dynamic software specifically designed to solve the parking crisis.We discuss how their technology helps lot owners monetize unused land, navigates the "regulatory nightmare" of zoning and DOT requirements, and provides a much-needed marketplace for drivers searching for a safe place to park.Reach out to our guests:Venu KolliJoe CaivanoJoe@besttruckparking.com484 408 2280https://besttruckparking.com/. https://spotos.ai/You HostChris HarrisSafety Dawgchris@safetydawg.com:00:00 – Welcome and Introduction to the Truck Parking Crisis 01:12 – Meet the Guests: Joe Caivano and Venu Kolli 02:21 – The Origin Story: From Wall Street to Truck Parking 03:33 – Why Self-Storage Software Doesn't Work for Trucking 04:13 – Navigating Zoning, DOT, and the "Regulatory Nightmare" 05:21 – How Dynamic Software Streamlines Lot Operations 06:14 – Solving the Supply Problem: The Best Truck Parking Marketplace 07:33 – Monetizing Unused Land and Eliminating Barriers for Owners Don't forget to LIKE and SUBSCRIBE to stay updated on the latest innovations and risk management strategies in the trucking industry!#trucking #TruckParking #Logistics #SupplyChain #TruckingIndustry #BestTruckParking #SpotOS #TruckingRisk #PodcastSupport the show

May 1, 2026Episode 1332 min

A Billion Dollars of Dry Powder: Why 10 Leasing is Betting on a Market Turnaround

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of the Trucking Risk and Insurance Podcast, we sit down with Hooman Yazhari, CEO of 10 Leasing, to discuss the current state of the trucking industry, fleet management, and the future of trailer leasing. 10 Leasing is a major player in maintenance, repair, fleet management, and financing, specializing in trailers like dry boxes, flatbeds, chassis, and refrigerated units across the United States and Canada. Hooman shares his unique perspective, drawing from his background in aircraft and helicopter leasing, on how the trucking industry is navigating one of the worst freight recessions in history. We delve into the concept of the "snapback" effect, the importance of holistic fleet management, and why 10 Leasing remains in "growth mode" despite the current economic climate.Our Guest: Hooman YazHari, CEOEmail: Marketing@TENLeasing.comWebsite: TENLeasing.comYour Hosts:John FarquharNational Risk Services Specialist, Transportation, Gallager GGBhttps://www.ajg.com/ca/M: 437-341-0932John_Farquhar@ajg.comChris HarrisCEO, Safety Dawg Inc.905 973 7056Chris@SafetyDawg.comhttps://safetydawg.com/00:00 – Introduction to Hooman Yazhari and 10 Leasing.00:43 – Operating in "Growth Mode" despite the current freight recession.01:47 – How $1 billion in "dry powder" supports industry equipment and safety needs.02:08 – Market outlook: Analyzing supply, demand, and normalizing rates.04:07 – The critical role of trucking in the global economy and civilization.05:06 – Lessons from aviation: Understanding the "snapback" effect in production and demand.06:51 – Managing fleet risks: Balancing financials, operations, and asset utilization.10:30 – The total cost of ownership: Why trailer maintenance is often overlooked.14:15 – Financial strategies for fleets: Navigating credit constraints and interest rates.18:45 – The importance of data in fleet management and risk mitigation.22:10 – Future trends: Sustainability, electrification, and the evolution of trailer tech.26:50 – 10 Leasing's operations in Canada and their massive network in Mississauga.29:40 – Closing thoughts and how to connect with Hooman Yazhari.Support the show

April 17, 2026Episode 1225 min

Tariffs, Turmoil, and Theft: Navigating Supply Chain Disruptions

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of the Trucking Risk and Insurance Podcast, host Chris Harris (Safety Dawg) is joined by Ron Greene from Overhaul to discuss the "triple threat" currently facing the trucking industry: Tariffs, Turmoil, and Theft.As a former asset-based fleet owner, Ron brings a unique perspective on how global supply chain disruptions wreak havoc down to the dispatch level for small carriers. We dive into the "double whammy" of rising fuel costs and shifting tariff regulations, exploring why these chaotic environments are exactly what cargo thieves look for to exploit weak spots in your operation.What you will learn in this episode:How supply chain disruptions impact daily dispatch and driver profitability.Why major corporate shippers are shifting their focus from pure cost-cutting to building "resilience".The critical importance of proactive fuel table management in your contracts.Why now is the time to strengthen, rather than relax, your security protocols.How to navigate a "frictionless market" where rates and conditions change overnight.Don't let market chaos compromise your margins or your cargo security. Tune in to learn how to stay ahead of these disruptions.Reach out to Ron:Over-haul.comRonald.greene@over-haul.com512-466-7321Your Hosts:John FarquharNational Risk Services Specialist, Transportation, Gallager GGBhttps://www.ajg.com/ca/M: 437-341-0932John_Farquhar@ajg.comChris HarrisCEO, Safety Dawg Inc.905 973 7056Chris@SafetyDawg.comhttps://safetydawg.com/Support the show

April 8, 2026Episode 1118 min

How a Smart Marketplace Cuts the Time and Stress of Trucking Insurance

Send us Fan MailAre you tired of the endless phone trees and "dead air" when trying to get an insurance quote for your fleet? In this episode, host Chris Harris (the Safety Dawg) sits down with Sarah Mendoza-Reid, Vice President of Agency Services at Tivly, to discuss how a smart marketplace is revolutionizing the way truckers find coverage.We dive deep into the real costs of long-haul insurance, the unique challenges faced by small fleet owners (1-10 trucks), and why commercial trucking insurance is so much more than just a standard auto policy with higher limits. Sarah also shares her unique background—from roller derby to insurance VP and explains how Tivly’s "warm transfer" process ensures you never have to start your story over from scratch.Key Takeaways:How a "smart matching platform" connects you with specialists who actually want your business.The reality of insurance costs, ranging from $8,000 to $22,000 per truck for long-haul operations.The difference between personal auto, commercial auto, and true commercial trucking insurance.How to avoid "dead air" and phone trees when seeking new quotes.Reach out to Tivly:877-907-5267sarah@tivly.comhttps://tivly.com/Your Host:Chris HarrisCEO, Safety Dawg Inc.905 973 7056Chris@SafetyDawg.comhttps://safetydawg.com/00:00 – Introduction: The frustration of insurance phone trees.00:35 – Guest Introduction: Meet Sarah Mendoza Reed.01:06 – Sarah’s background: From Michigan to roller derby to Oklahoma.01:52 – What is Tivly and how is it a unique insurance marketplace?.02:22 – How a marketplace differs from a traditional broker or agency.02:50 – The 10-minute interview and "Smart Matching" process.03:55 – Eliminating "dead air" with the "warm transfer" system.04:42 – Who is the primary market? Focus on small businesses and fleets.05:01 – The unique challenges of the 1-to-10 truck fleet.06:10 – Breakdown of insurance costs: $8,000 to $22,000 per truck.06:55 – What exactly is commercial trucking insurance?.07:43 – The realities of trucking: Cargo values, injury potential, and regulations.08:04 – Nuclear verdicts and their impact on the industry.Support the show

March 27, 2026Episode 1023 min

Protecting the Supply Chain from Sophisticated Theft Networks: Double Lock USA

Send us Fan MailCargo theft is evolving faster than most of us can keep up with, becoming a multimillion-dollar issue across North America. In this episode of the Trucking Risk and Insurance Podcast, host Chris Harris sits down with Brett Frazee, President of Double Lock USA, to discuss the sophisticated networks behind these crimes and why a multi-step approach to physical security is essential for protecting your freight.Brett shares his insights into the rapidly changing "theft arena," where petty crime has been replaced by massive, technologically advanced organized crime rings. We dive into why Southern Ontario and other major hubs are seeing record-high theft rates and how the industry is fighting back.Learn about the latest in physical security, from heavy-duty industrial locks to the new division of serialized security seals, and how these physical deterrents work alongside GPS and telematics to create a comprehensive defence.Connect with Double Lock USA:Website: doublelockusa.comLinkedin: @doublelock-usaStay Connected with Safety Dawg:Website: safetydawg.comJoin the Safety Dawg Success Network for more industry insights!0:00 – Introduction: The Evolving Crisis of Cargo Theft 0:54 – Meet Brett Frazee, President of Double Lock USA 1:21 – The New "Theft Arena": From Petty Theft to Organized Crime Rings 2:28 – The Financial Impact: Addressing a $1 Billion Problem in North America2:57 – Hot Spots: Why Freight Theft is Exploding in Southern Ontario 3:40 – Why Law Enforcement is Struggling to Keep Up 4:48 – Joint Task Forces and Cooperative Industry Security 5:13 – Double Lock USA’s History and Insurance-Rated Security 5:56 – The Multi-Step Approach: Physical Security, Seals, and Technology 7:12 – Future-Proofing Cargo: RFID Seals and Strategic Deterrents 8:20 – Creative Thieves: Dealing with Sophisticated TargetingSupport the show

March 20, 2026Episode 932 min

Powering the Shift: 30-Year Energy Vet Libby Edgar on Building a Nationwide Truck Charging Network

Send us Fan MailPowering the Shift with Libby EdgarIn this episode, we explore the massive transformation currently hitting the commercial transportation industry: electrification. Join us as we sit down with Libby Edgar, CFO of Green Lane, to discuss how they are building the "gas station of the future" for heavy-duty trucks.With 30 years of experience in the energy sector, Libby shares insights into Green Lane’s mission to deploy a nationwide network of public EV charging stations. We dive into the differences between private depot charging and "on-the-go" infrastructure, the tiered strategy for site expansion, and why industry giants like Daimler and Tesla are so bullish on electric Class 8 trucks.Connect with Libby Edgar & Green Lane:Website: https://www.drivegreenlane.com/LinkedIn: @drivegreenlane https://www.linkedin.com/company/drivegreenlaneHost:Chris Harris, Safety Dawgchris@safetydawg.com905 973 7056Episode Timestamps00:00 – Welcome to the Trucking Risk and Insurance Podcast.00:57 – Meet Libby Edgar: A 30-year veteran of the energy sector and CFO of Green Lane.01:47 – Why the transportation industry is a prime target for reversing carbon emissions.02:32 – Green Lane’s Mission: Developing a nationwide EV charging network for medium and heavy-duty trucks.03:04 – Where it starts: Expanding from Southern California across the I-10 and beyond.04:00 – Addressing the skeptics: Why major manufacturers are betting big on electric Class 8 trucks.05:24 – Public Charging vs. Private Depots: Understanding "on-the-go" infrastructure.07:07 – Green Lane’s site designs: Flagship "Centers," "Plus" sites, and "Express" locations.08:34 – Pacing the market: How Green Lane scales infrastructure alongside truck production.Support the show

March 16, 2026Episode 828 min

The Cargo Theft Epidemic: Why 2026 Will Be the Most Dangerous Year Yet

Send us Fan MailCargo theft is no longer just "missing boxes"—it has evolved into a sophisticated, multi-billion dollar criminal enterprise. In this episode, Chris and John sit down with Danny Ramon, Director of Intelligence and Response at Overhaul, to break down a chilling new report on supply chain disruptions.Danny reveals that cargo theft increased by 16% year-over-year in 2025, following five consecutive years of record-breaking growth. Even more alarming, he explains why official reports represent only about 1/10th of what is actually happening on the ground. We dive into the hotspots like the GTA and LA Basin and discuss the dangerous links between cargo thieves and transnational criminal groups involved in drugs and weapons.In this episode, you’ll learn:The true scale of the 2025 cargo theft report.Why many carriers are reluctant to report theft and how that helps the criminals.The "Venn diagram" overlap between auto theft and cargo crime.Strategies to protect your fleet from increasingly agile criminal organizations.Contact Danny:Danny Ramon | Director of Intelligence and Response, Overhaul512.699.7373 | daniel.ramon@over-haul.comover-haul.com Your hosts:John FarquharNational Risk Services Specialist, Transportation, Gallager GGBhttps://www.ajg.com/ca/M: 437-341-0932John_Farquhar@ajg.comChris HarrisCEO, Safety Dawg Inc.905 973 7056Chris@SafetyDawg.comhttps://safetydawg.com/00:00 - Intro: Meet Danny Ramon of Overhaul02:52 - The 16% Surge: Breakdown of the 2025 Cargo Theft Report04:08 - The "Tip of the Iceberg": Why only 10% of thefts are reported05:03 - Hotspots: Comparing the GTA and Los Angeles Basin05:53 - Evolution of Crime: How auto theft evolved into organized cargo crime06:14 - The Dangerous Reality: Connections to drugs, cash, and weapons07:31 - Funding the Underworld: How cargo theft fuels criminal groups09:45 - The "Agility" Factor: Why criminals change targets overnight12:15 - High-Value vs. High-Volume: What’s being targeted right now15:30 - Protecting Your Fleet: Practical steps for safety managers19:10 - The Importance of Intelligence: Why sharing data is your best defense23:45 - Recovery Success Stories: What happens when the system works27:12 - Closing Thoughts: The 2026 outlook and final adviceSupport the show

March 9, 2026Episode 733 min

Beyond the Rules: How AI and Proactive Coaching Are Transforming Trucking Safety

Send us Fan MailIn today’s episode, we sit down with Anthony Triggs, the Director of Safety and Compliance at Interstate Van Lines. With over 25 years of hands-on safety experience and a current CDL, Anthony shares his unique "servant leader" approach to fleet management.We dive deep into the implementation of dash cam technology and event recorders within the moving industry. Anthony explains why the primary focus should always be on driver exoneration rather than just rule enforcement. We also explore the 15-year technology gap between freight and moving, the power of "operational huddles" for driver buy-in, and how AI-driven "nudges" are proactively keeping drivers safe.Whether you are a safety director or a fleet owner, this conversation is packed with actionable insights on protecting your drivers and your business.00:00 — Introduction to Anthony Triggs and the "Servant Leader" philosophy.01:10 — Why Anthony maintains his CDL after 25 years in safety.03:02 — The 15-year technology gap: Freight vs. The Moving Industry.04:42 — How to achieve a "flawless" dash cam implementation.05:16 — Using "Operational Huddles" to build driver trust.05:48 — The #1 goal of event recorders: Driver Exoneration.06:28 — Moving beyond "it's just a rule" compliance.07:28 — How AI "nudges" provide real-time coaching in the cab.Connect with us:Don't forget to subscribe to stay updated on the latest trends in trucking risk and insurance!Anthony TriggsWebsite: www.moveinterstate.com Phone Number: 800-745-6683 Email Address: contactus@invan.com Your Hosts:John FarquharNational Risk Services Specialist, Transportation, Gallager GGBhttps://www.ajg.com/ca/M: 437-341-0932John_Farquhar@ajg.comChris HarrisCEO, Safety Dawg Inc.905 973 7056Chris@SafetyDawg.comhttps://safetydawg.com/Support the show