In this episode, The Armchair Attorney Matt Leffler discusses the upcoming Supreme Court case involving C.H. Robinson and why its ruling could finally bring clarity to freight broker liability, negligent hiring claims, and federal preemption under the F4A!

We talk about how conflicting court decisions have created uncertainty for brokers, why the industry relies on FMCSA data to vet motor carriers, and how a ruling against brokers could drive smaller players out of the market due to rising insurance and legal costs.

Matt also covers the growing tension between state tort laws and federal regulation, the role of the US Chamber of Commerce, and what brokers must do right now to manage risk - strict carrier vetting, avoiding operational control over drivers, and staying within established protocols.

This decision will shape broker liability, insurance requirements, and the future structure of the freight industry, and it's something every broker moving freight today needs to understand, so make sure to tune in!

About Matthew Leffler

Matthew is a 3rd generation supply chain executive with over fifteen years of experience in safety, law, & maintenance. Matthew currently serves as Vice President of Strategic Accounts at Contract Leasing Corp. He is also an attorney that provides legal commentary on various supply chain issues & operates a popular podcast. In addition, Matthew has served as a senior leader with some of the nation's most admired maintenance, repair, & fleet management firms. Matthew entered the industry as an attorney defending trucking companies in civil litigation in 2010, but cut his teeth helping build & later selling his family's maintenance firm, Outsource Fleet Services, Inc.

Matthew earned his J.D. from Michigan State University College of Law, Magna Cum Laude, and his B.A. from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. He is licensed to practice law in the State of Illinois; U.S. District Court, Northern District of Illinois; & 7th Circuit Court of Appeals. Matthew is the proud father of Michael, Rowan, Elise, & Elijah & has been happily married to his wife, Holly, since 2008.

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Are you paying attention to the right lanes, the right technology, and the right relationships in this freight market?

In this episode, I break down why the Atlanta–Dallas lane remains one of the most stable in the country, holding between $1,350 and $1,450 with predictable seasonal spikes, and what that means for freight brokers managing tight margins!

We also dig into how AI in freight brokerage is becoming a profitability driver, with companies like C.H. Robinson automating up to 90% of manual tasks to scale efficiently in a down market, how regulatory enforcement and falling carrier profits could trigger capacity exits and support higher rates, why fleets are slowing expansion, and how disciplined brokers can win.

Don't miss out on learning why mentorship from proven freight professionals is critical to avoiding costly mistakes and staying competitive over the next 12 to 24 months!

Resources / References

• https://www.ttnews.com/articles/ch-robinson-earnings-q4-2025
• https://www.fleetowner.com/perspectives/ideaxchange/blog/55353313/roeth-how-finding-and-being-a-mentor-can-boost-your-trucking-career
• https://www.joc.com/article/schneider-q4-profit-weakens-but-company-pins-hopes-on-capacity-exits-6161427

📊📉 Don't miss out on the latest market trends by subscribing to your TOP Transportation Morning Show! 🌎

🎬🎯 #TheFreightCoach Morning Show is LIVE every weekday at 10:30 AM CST to break down transportation industry headlines! Mark your calendars!

To Find Out More About My Freight Services

Visit https://freightcoachlogistics.com/

🤝 Shoutout to my sponsors!👇

• SPI Logistics | https://spi3pl.com/
• Revenova | https://revenova.com/freightcoach/
• NMFTA | https://nmfta.org/
• DAT Freight & Analytics | https://www.dat.com/

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If you're struggling to integrate legacy systems without killing visibility or choose the right TMS partner that actually delivers long-term value, tune in to this episode with Petra Nenickova from Legacy Supply Chain to know what real-world technology integration and digital transformation look like in today's freight environment across the US and Canada!

From managing complex legacy systems and selecting flexible, integration-ready TMS platforms to driving user adoption through frontline involvement, practical training, and ongoing post-launch support, we get into how to evaluate vendors beyond polished demos, why system integrations like EDI and APIs are non-negotiable, how to prioritize core operations at go-live, and why clear communication and change management are the real drivers of ROI, visibility, and scalable freight technology success!

About Petra Nenickova

Petra currently manages the transportation tech stack, including their TMS, and she led several TMS projects from early discovery all the way through implementation. These experiences have taught her a lot about what truly works, what doesn't, and how to guide teams through change with confidence. She's genuinely passionate about both technology and transportation, and she loves the challenge of making systems more effective in supporting real business processes while creating a positive user experience.

With a background in both front‑line operations and management, she understands the everyday challenges people face and what makes technology genuinely useful. She thrives on connecting the dots, solving problems, and helping people work smarter through better processes and better technology.

Connect with Petra

• Website: https://legacyscs.com/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/petranenickova/

📊📉 Don't miss out on the latest market trends by subscribing to your TOP Transportation Morning Show! 🌎

🎬🎯 #TheFreightCoach Morning Show is LIVE every weekday at 10:30 AM CST to break down transportation industry headlines! Mark your calendars!

To Find Out More About My Freight Services

Visit https://freightcoachlogistics.com/

🤝 Shoutout to my sponsors!👇

• SPI Logistics | https://spi3pl.com/
• Revenova | https://revenova.com/freightcoach/
• NMFTA | https://nmfta.org/

Donate to support Stacy and her family: https://tinyurl.com/36xmxcmr

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Thinking about making the jump from W2 to independent freight agent, or wondering why so many agents struggle to scale and survive in the market?

Erik Larson (Sage) is back on the show to break down what it really takes to succeed as an independent agent in today's freight brokerage and logistics market, starting with mindset, capital, and a realistic business plan for the 1099 transition!

We talk about why revenue diversification is non-negotiable, how relying on one big shipper can put your entire operation at risk, and why your top customers should never control more than 10% of your revenue.

We also cover the operational reality most people underestimate: the need for a full tech stack, proper insurance, legal counsel, and cash flow discipline to handle complex freight contracts and high-value moves.

Don't miss out on hearing why partnering with a strong logistics company like SPI Logistics changed my business, reduced overhead risk, shortened sales cycles, and boosted credibility with larger shippers!

Connect with Sage

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SageOutcastX

📊📉 Don't miss out on the latest market trends by subscribing to your TOP Transportation Morning Show! 🌎

🎬🎯 #TheFreightCoach Morning Show is LIVE every weekday at 10:30 AM CST to break down transportation industry headlines! Mark your calendars!

To Find Out More About My Freight Services

Visit https://freightcoachlogistics.com/

🤝 Shoutout to my sponsors!👇

• SPI Logistics | https://spi3pl.com/
• Revenova | https://revenova.com/freightcoach/
• NMFTA | https://nmfta.org/

Donate to support Stacy and her family: https://tinyurl.com/36xmxcmr

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💼 https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-jolly-a183aa6a/

Find out if EDI is still the backbone of scalable freight operations and what happens when you stop penalizing brokers for growth in this episode with our returning guest, Brad Perling of Bitfreighter!

Brad shares why their EDI-first freight technology strategy is quietly reshaping shipper integration, automated quoting, and brokerage scalability.

Brad and I talk through why EDI remains the most reliable foundation for freight data integrity, how unlimited EDI messaging pricing removes one of the biggest cost barriers for growing brokerages, seamless integration through APIs and RPA across TMS platforms and load boards, and how real-time quoting analytics are driving millions in new revenue for customers.

If you're a freight broker or shipper looking to scale without breaking your tech stack or your budget, this conversation lays out exactly why EDI (if done right) is still a competitive advantage in modern freight tech!

About Brad Perling

Brad Perling is the CEO and co-founder of Bitfreighter. With over 15 years of experience in the industry and growing 2 successful brokerages, Brad's deep understanding of logistics challenges has fueled his passion for finding better software solutions. He knew there was a need for a disruptive new model in the EDI space and was determined to create it. He has a passion for aviation and enjoys playing hockey and golf while spending time with his wife and 2 kids.

Connect with Brad

• Website: https://www.bitfreighter.com/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brad-perling-5a101655/

📊📉 Don't miss out on the latest market trends by subscribing to your TOP Transportation Morning Show! 🌎

🎬🎯 #TheFreightCoach Morning Show is LIVE every weekday at 10:30 AM CST to break down transportation industry headlines! Mark your calendars!

To Find Out More About My Freight Services

Visit https://freightcoachlogistics.com/

🤝 Shoutout to my sponsors!👇

• SPI Logistics | https://spi3pl.com/
• Revenova | https://revenova.com/freightcoach/
• NMFTA | https://nmfta.org/

Donate to support Stacy and her family: https://tinyurl.com/36xmxcmr

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Are you confident your compliance program would hold up under an FMCSA audit, and are you scaling your fleet without scaling your safety and risk management? Rob Carpenter from Trucksafe is back to discuss why organized compliance, defensible training, and real accountability are no longer optional in trucking!

We explore how poor paperwork and weak policies can turn routine inspections into costly enforcement actions, why nearly 80% of driving skills are learned on the job (and how this creates serious legal exposure), and the growing accountability gap where drivers face severe penalties while carriers often escape consequences.

We also cover FMCSA compliance reviews, ELD scrutiny, the role of technology in growing fleets, and why proactive safety training reduces accident severity and litigation risk.

As regulatory scrutiny increases and bad actors face more exposure, carriers that invest in scalable compliance programs, driver training, and transparent documentation are the ones best positioned to protect their business and stay competitive in today's freight industry!

Connect with Rob

• Website: https://www.trucksafe.com/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-carpenter-cds-cdm-e-74500977/
• Linktree: https://linktr.ee/robcarpenter

📊📉 Don't miss out on the latest market trends by subscribing to your TOP Transportation Morning Show! 🌎

🎬🎯 #TheFreightCoach Morning Show is LIVE every weekday at 10:30 AM CST to break down transportation industry headlines! Mark your calendars!

To Find Out More About My Freight Services

Visit https://freightcoachlogistics.com/

🤝 Shoutout to my sponsors!👇

• SPI Logistics | https://spi3pl.com/
• Revenova | https://revenova.com/freightcoach/
• NMFTA | https://nmfta.org/

Donate to support Stacy and her family: https://tinyurl.com/36xmxcmr

🚀🔥 To sign up for my Newsletter, go to http://eepurl.com/iNoHco, get in touch with me through the social media channels below, and subscribe to my YouTube Channel!👇

▶️ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCjrL70IEnCfDkNaiYMar3jw

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🕊️ https://twitter.com/thefr8coach

💼 https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-jolly-a183aa6a/

What happens when sales slip, costs explode, and the market stays tough longer than anyone expected?

How do you scale a freight brokerage without burning cash or losing focus?

In this episode, our returning guest from Thrivemodal, Kyle Wilson, is back to explain why founders must stay relentlessly focused on business development and how outsourcing operations to the Philippines cuts monthly costs while improving scalability and service quality.

Kyle also shares a grounded outlook on the 2026 freight market, infrastructure-driven demand, global workforce integration through cloud logistics technology, and why combining elite sales talent with lean operations is the real competitive advantage for modern freight brokerages!

About Kyle Wilson

For over a decade, I've been immersed in the dynamic worlds of strategic logistics and digital professionals, driven by an unwavering passion to help businesses thrive. As the founder of two successful companies, Thrivemodal and Yellow Diamond Logistics, I've witnessed firsthand the transformative power of seamless operations and a dedicated virtual workforce.

At Thrivemodal, I've spearheaded the growth of a thriving virtual professional agency, connecting businesses across the US with exceptional talent from the Philippines. Our team of highly skilled global professionals seamlessly integrates into client operations, providing administrative, technical, and creative support that fuels business growth.

My expertise in strategic logistics extends to Yellow Diamond Logistics, where I guide businesses in optimizing their supply chain operations. I relish the challenge of streamlining processes, reducing costs, and enhancing efficiency, empowering my clients to achieve their strategic goals.

Whether it's navigating the complexities of logistics or harnessing the power of global staffing, I'm committed to empowering businesses to reach their full potential. I believe in forging strong partnerships, fostering innovation, and cultivating a culture of excellence.

When I'm not strategizing in the logistics landscape or steering the Thrivemodal ship, you'll find me exploring new horizons. Let's connect and explore how Yellow Diamond Logistics and Thrivemodal can contribute to the narrative of your business journey.

Connect with Kyle

• Website: https://thrivemodal.com/ / https://www.yellowdiamondconsulting.com/
• Email: kyle@thrivemodal.com

📊📉 Don't miss out on the latest market trends by subscribing to your TOP Transportation Morning Show! 🌎

🎬🎯 #TheFreightCoach Morning Show is LIVE every weekday at 10:30 AM CST to break down transportation industry headlines! Mark your calendars!

To Find Out More About My Freight Services

Visit https://freightcoachlogistics.com/

🤝 Shoutout to my sponsors!👇

• SPI Logistics | https://spi3pl.com/
• Revenova | https://revenova.com/freightcoach/
• NMFTA | https://nmfta.org/

Donate to support Stacy and her family: https://tinyurl.com/36xmxcmr

🚀🔥 To sign up for my Newsletter, go to http://eepurl.com/iNoHco, get in touch with me through the social media channels below, and subscribe to my YouTube Channel!👇

▶️ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCjrL70IEnCfDkNaiYMar3jw

📷 https://www.instagram.com/thefreightcoach/

🕊️ https://twitter.com/thefr8coach

💼 https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-jolly-a183aa6a/