The Inbound Logistics Podcast provides the most relevant and topical information from the third-party logistics and supply chain management world as presented by the most influential thought leaders in the industry. (logistics, supply chain, cargo, freight, transportation, education)
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It's the Freight360 podcast from Freight Broker Sales tips to Sports Talk. This podcast is all about helping you grow as a Freight Broker with your hosts, Nate Cross and Benjamin Kowalski. New episodes every Friday and our Q&A series "The Final Mile" every Tuesday. Join us as we dive into the freight industry to provide you with the latest in Freight Broker education and industry news. If you have a question you would like answered on our show visit the website below or leave a comment where ...
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Step into the new era of trade with our no-nonsense podcast series—your strategic guide through the 2025 tariff shake-up. In a landscape where disruption is the norm, we bring you bold, unconventional insights and actionable takeaways for savvy executives determined to turn challenges into opportunities. Join us as we unpack the complexities of the latest tariff changes, diving deep into how these new policies impact margins, cash flow, and overall business agility. We'll break down the nuan ...
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Step into the exciting world of entrepreneurship with This Is Small Business! Join us on an adventure as we dive deep into the riveting tales of triumph and tenacity of small business owners. This Is Small Business speaks with business owners from all over as they go through the highs and lows of entrepreneurship and we uncover the secret sauce behind building a thriving business. Tune in to hear from a dynamic array of guests, each with their own captivating backgrounds and unique perspecti ...
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Sit back and relax, enjoy the humor, learn something valuable and discover the creativity of Supply Chain Leaders. About "Supply Chains... ”The Secret Sauce" to business Podcast Helping supply chain leaders solve day-to-day challenges and explore cutting-edge technology solutions. Consulting Company Phone: 832-829-4840
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Email Essentials for Freight Brokers | Episode 292
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58:58Poor email habits can cost you customers. In this episode, we break down the fundamentals of professional email communication for freight brokers and why it matters more than you think. 🔹 Write clear, purpose-driven messages 🔹 Use subject lines and recipient lists effectively 🔹 Repackage sloppy carrier emails before forwarding 🔹 Always follow up ca…
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Small Business Byte: How to Pitch Your Business Like a Pro
7:43
7:43
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7:43Your pitch is more than just words – it’s your first impression, your story, and your chance to stand out. But how do you pack all that into just 60 seconds or less? In this minisode of Small Business Bytes on This is Small Business, host Andrea Marquez walks you through how to craft an elevator pitch that grabs attention, tells a compelling story,…
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Episode 4 – Tariff Chaos: 90 Days to Survive From the team at Survive the Tariffs Tariffs are rising. Costs are spiking. And the rules keep changing. For importers, expecially from China, the next 90 days are make-or-break. In this episode, we cut through the noise and give U.S. importers a no-fluff survival plan to protect cash flow, avoid panic, …
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Are Brokers Parasites? & More Q&A | Final Mile 91
17:25
17:25
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17:25Nate Cross & Ben Kowalski answer your freight brokering questions and discuss: Is there a platform where brokers can bid on available freight shipments? What should I do if someone is fraudulently using my MC number to book loads? I'm getting started as a broker, but people say I can't compete with the big guys—any advice? Responding to claims that…
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When it comes to vetting motor carriers, each freight broker has their own preferences on what to look for and what to avoid. In this episode, we're opening the hood on our own personal rule sets that we use when selecting motor carriers. Support Our Sponsors: QuikSkope - Get a Free Trial: Click Here Levity: Click Here DAT Freight & Analytics - Get…
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A Holistic Approach to Post Audit - IL EDUCATION SERIES presented by IL AI AUDIO
9:09
9:09
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9:09As part of its longstanding commitment to logistics and supply chain education for both enterprises and students, Inbound Logistics presents the IL Education Series. This informative content, voiced by IL AI Audio, helps practitioners better understand key concepts and trending topics in supply chain management and sharpen their knowledge of all th…
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Small Business Bytes: How to Tell Your Business Story and Drive Customer Loyalty
8:19
8:19
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8:19People don’t just buy products – they buy stories. So how do you tell yours in a way that sticks, connects, and builds loyalty? In this minisode of Small Business Bytes on This is Small Business, host Andrea Marquez explains how you can write a brand story that does more than just sell – it builds a loyal customer base. You’ll learn how to craft yo…
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How to Make $1M Per Year as a Freight Broker | Final Mile 90
22:56
22:56
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22:56Nate Cross & Ben Kowalski answer your freight brokering questions and discuss: Should I be using an official quote form when sending pricing to a customer? Is it realistic to earn $1 million a year as a cradle-to-grave rep handling mostly LTL with 25% commission? When managing LTL and FTL with FedEx and UPS, should I explore alternative shipping op…
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In this episode of Freight 360, the hosts break down freight brokering basics with a focus on carrier selection and fraud prevention. They cover how the current economy affects the industry, share a global outlook, and dive into a real case of identity theft. Key takeaways include best practices for vetting carriers, staying ahead of fraud tactics,…
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Small Business Bytes: How to Overcome Perfection and Start Doing
9:47
9:47
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9:47Perfectionism is the enemy of progress. It’s the voice that whispers, ‘Just one more tweak,’ while your competitors are already out there, learning and growing. In this minisode of Small Business Bytes on This is Small Business, host Andrea Marquez dives into why waiting for perfection can sabotage your success – and what you can do to break free a…
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Bulk Loads, GPS Tracking, & More Q&A | Final Mile 89
18:16
18:16
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18:16Nate Cross & Ben Kowalski answer your freight brokering questions and discuss: What's the biggest challenge brokers face when it comes to shipping freight? How to find bulk carriers and handle washout requirements. GPS tracking issues: Why isn't it pinging every 30 minutes like it should? Support Our Sponsors: QuikSkope - Get a Free Trial: Click He…
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Importers: Raise Prices Now—or Run Out of Cash Before Q3 Even Starts
8:00
8:00
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8:00Episode 3: Importers: Raise Prices Immediately or Watch Your Business Bleed Out Before Q3 Importers across the U.S. are facing a brutal new reality: skyrocketing tariffs, extended shipping delays, and tightening credit. In this must-hear episode, we break down why raising prices right now isn’t optional—it’s a survival move. 🔑 Key takeaways: Why yo…
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Freight Broker Essentials: The Basics | Episode 289
58:02
58:02
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58:02Ever wonder why some freight brokerages thrive while others constantly struggle with cash flow problems? The answer lies in mastering the fundamentals that many brokers overlook. In this eye-opening episode, we explore the critical but often neglected basics that make or break your brokerage operation. We share real stories of brokerages that gener…
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Discover how your deeper purpose can be a practical tool for long-term planning and overcoming challenges. In the first minisode of Small Business Bytes on This is Small Business, host Andrea Marquez dives into the #1 thing every business needs to work on to be able to thrive: your why. Get inspired from past guests like Sean Brownlee of Ravenox, w…
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Prospecting, Fuel Surcharges & Blind Loads | Final Mile 88
19:16
19:16
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19:16Nate Cross & Ben Kowalski answer your freight brokering questions and discuss: 🔍 How to find the right companies to prospect — and who to contact once you do ⛽️ How to calculate fuel surcharge when quoting a customer 🙈 What blind shipments are and why shippers use them Support Our Sponsors: QuikSkope - Get a Free Trial: Click Here Levity: Click Her…
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Common Accessorial Charges | Episode 288
1:03:33
1:03:33
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1:03:33🚚 In this episode, we cover: ⏱ What accessorial charges are (detention, layovers, TONU, lumpers & more) 📄 How to document charges and avoid disputes 📉 Real-world examples of how mishandling accessorials hurts profits and relationships Support Our Sponsors: QuikSkope - Get a Free Trial: Click Here Levity: Click Here DAT Freight & Analytics - Get 10%…
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Ready to take the leap? This is the home for bold risk-takers and aspiring entrepreneurs.
2:52
2:52
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2:52What’s the boldest risk you’ve ever taken? For entrepreneurs, risk is the heart of the journey. In our newest season of This is Small Business, host Andrea Marquez takes you behind the scenes with founders who’ve turned "maybe one day" into "let’s do this!" Join Andrea as she digs into the stories of fearless entrepreneurs who’ve made life-changing…
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Nate Cross & Ben Kowalski answer your freight brokering questions and discuss: 📞 What does “100 calls per day” really mean—total dials or the number of companies contacted? 🚫 Is there a way to get more customers without cold calling? What can a new broker do after struggling with outreach? 💸 When does a shipper typically pay a new brokerage, and ho…
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The Hidden Risks of Running a Freight Brokerage | Episode 287
1:03:47
1:03:47
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1:03:47Profits can vanish fast when brokers cut corners. Nate kicks things off with a wild National Guard story from inside New York prisons, then we dive into real-life brokerage disasters: a $50K trailer fail, insurance loopholes that killed claims, and a rejected tanker load no one wants to touch. If you’re in freight, these lessons could save your bus…
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Network Optimization: Predicting Uncertainty to Produce Success - Guest: Stephen Johanson, SVP, Industry Principal for Network Optimization, Logility
15:52
15:52
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15:52The one certainty in the supply chain is uncertainty. Everything from economic upheaval and geopolitical instability to climate changes and technological advancements all contribute to an industry that could benefit from even one stabilizing element. An efficiently optimized network that can parse large amounts of data and help predict and navigate…
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Breaking Into Freight Brokerage: Essential Q&A for Success | Final Mile 86
21:19
21:19
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21:19Nate Cross & Ben Kowalski answer your freight brokering questions and discuss: Does Your Business Name Matter? – Should you change “Transportation” to “Logistics” when you become a broker? Cold Calling 101 – How to approach shippers as a new broker and what your outreach should sound like. Finding Carriers When You’re New – Strategies to build carr…
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Freight 360 Live: Maximizing DAT Tools for Brokers | Episode 286
1:07:04
1:07:04
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1:07:04Get 10% off a Year of DAT: Click Here 🔹 DAT Features – Explore qualification settings, company profiles, and market insights. 📊 Leveraging Data Analytics – Use tools like Benchmark & LaneMakers to optimize operations. 📈 Navigating Market Shifts – Learn how seasonal changes impact capacity and pricing. 💰 Boosting Profitability – Improve decision-mak…
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Cross-Border Crossroads: How are Cross-Border Supply Chain Operations Dealing with the Evolving Economic Landscape? Guest: Luis Bazan, Director - Pharr International Bridge
29:50
29:50
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29:50A volatile political landscape is putting pressure on Mexico and cross-border supply chain operations are becoming a casualty. Tariffs and a looming trade war have thrown the industry into an unsteady situation that companies are struggling to navigate. How can businesses better prepare to keep shipments moving? Luis Bazan, Director of the Pharr In…
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Getting New Customers & More Q&A | Final Mile 85
20:12
20:12
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20:12Ben & Stephen answer your freight brokering questions and discuss: Prospecting as a New Broker – Key advice for getting started and landing shippers. Using the BOL for Leads – How to leverage Bills of Lading to start conversations. Building Carrier Trust – Overcoming factoring issues and earning credibility. Support Our Sponsors: QuikSkope - Get a …
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We're doing a live podcast this Thursday with DAT to help show you the best ways to maximize your tools to increase your profits and carrier network. Make sure to join us on LinkedIn or YouTube this week, March 20th at 2pm EST. You can interact and ask questions if you watch live, otherwise it will be available for everyone as a recording just like…
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Breaking Down the Freight Broker Role | Episode 285
1:01:09
1:01:09
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1:01:09Benjamin and Stephen break down the many roles in freight brokerage, from freight agents to carrier sales reps, and the challenges of customer acquisition. They dive into market trends, tariffs, cargo theft, and cyber scams, highlighting the need for clearer job titles and stronger fraud enforcement. Plus, they discuss AI’s impact on logistics and …
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Future of Trucking: Are Regulations and Mandates Putting the Brakes on Trucking’s Future? Guest: Mike Kucharski, JKC Trucking
22:33
22:33
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22:33The trucking industry is a vital component of the global supply chain but it continues to face challenges that, for better or worse, truckers are forced to navigate. Regulations, EPA mandates, and the rising cost of fuel are just some of the factors that the industry has to juggle to keep trucks on the road. What then is the path forward for trucke…
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TONUs, Freight Rates, & More Q&A | Final Mile 84
38:28
38:28
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38:28Ben & Stephen answer your freight brokering questions and discuss: TONU Fees & Cancellations – Is it reasonable to charge a 24-hour cancellation fee on shipments? (Sounds like a TONU question.) Trucking Cost Per Mile – What’s the industry average for a trucking company? Comparing $1.80 vs. $2.07 per mile. Freight Broker vs. Sales Jobs – How does be…
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Trump Tariffs & Cross-Border Freight (with Dean Croke of DAT) | Episode 284
56:05
56:05
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56:05Ben and Dean break down recent US-Canada tariff changes, covering their impact on freight volumes, rates, and carrier challenges. Dean shares insights on operating costs, a possible freight recession, and long-term trade policy effects. They also discuss market volatility, strategies for navigating tough conditions, and the importance of strong par…
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New Freight Broker Mistakes & More Q&A | Final Mile 83
25:41
25:41
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25:41Ben & Stephen answer your freight brokering questions and discuss: Dispatching Trucks from Abroad – Challenges and considerations for carriers managing operations remotely. Carrier Perspective on Rates – The push for higher rates and the costs carriers must cover. Onboarding Challenges – What happens when a carrier isn’t set up late in the day? New…
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US Importers, Wake Up – 2025 Shipping Schedules Are Breaking! 🚢📦
5:39
5:39
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5:39Episode 2: US Importers, Wake Up – 2025 Shipping Schedules Are Breaking! 🚢📦 If you’re a US importer relying on business as usual for your supply chain, you’re already falling behind. Tariff panic, shifting shipping routes, and global congestion are creating unavoidable delays—and most importers aren’t ready. In this fast-paced, no-nonsense episode,…
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"Tariffs On, Tariffs Off – A Business Nightmare" cuts through the chaos of shifting trade policies with a candid, no-nonsense analysis designed for business leaders on the frontlines. In this episode, hosts Jessica and Wade dive into the whirlwind of tariff changes announced during Trump's second term—where tariffs swing on a dime, upending supply …
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Back Office Fundamentals in Freight Brokerage | Episode 283
1:01:35
1:01:35
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1:01:35💰 Back Office Basics for Freight Brokers In this episode of Freight 360, Benjamin and Stephen break down the back-office fundamentals that keep a freight brokerage running smoothly. They get into the nitty-gritty of invoicing, payment processes, and the headaches that come with detention and accessorial fees. Cash flow is king in this business, so …
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Lumpers, Dispatchers, & More Q&A | Final Mile 82
27:24
27:24
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27:24Ben & Stephen answer your freight brokering questions and discuss: Handling extra costs like lumper fees and detention fees – when to charge the shipper Calculating fuel surcharges – is it built into the rate or added later? Working with airlines and MRO repair facilities – thoughts on dedicated aviation freight Why do some brokers refuse to work w…
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Justin Austin Sr VP AON Talks about Supply Chain RISK FOR 2025
26:52
26:52
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26:52Send us a text Send us an email Wade & Justin talk about interesting new RISKS in SUPPLY CHAINS TODAY as well as software or ideas to lower those risks. Justin is SVP at AON. Has decades of experience in the logistics industry. Justin Austin Linked In: LINK Supply Chain Secret Sauce Wade Wickus: Here Email: [email protected] Supply Ch…
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The latest TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS for FRESH & FAST Supply Chains: Judson Armentrout Founder
29:13
29:13
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29:13Send us a text Send us an email Wade & Judson talk about interesting new disruptors in the industry such as @Jackbe, @Disco, and @snowflake. These systems are taking on traditional ways and changing them. Listen as they discuss the ways businesses are taking advantage of this new thought in food delivery. Judson is founder of Building Block Solutio…
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Growing sales, scaling operations: THE OPERATIONS AFFECT - Series #3
19:35
19:35
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19:35Send us a text Send us an email #3 in the series of Marketing & Operations! Wade and Robin start a series of discussions of how marketing and operations connect and collaborate to scale a small to midsize business. In this series they explore Operational fulfillment, when to hire a consultant and why hire a consultant. $1,000 - $3,000 a month to sc…
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Growing sales, scaling operations: THE SECRET SAUCE OF MARKETING - Series #2
20:51
20:51
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20:51Send us a text Send us an email #2 in the series of Marketing & Operations! Wade and Robin start a series of discussions of how marketing and operations connect and collaborate to scale a small to midsize business. In this series they explore social media, influencers and how brands can win using these marketing secret sauce solutions which drives …
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We Met FreightBrokerGuy! | Episode 282
1:04:14
1:04:14
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1:04:14You may have heard of him or even seen his wild Tweets on X - we finally got to sit down with FreightBrokerGuy and his story is a wild one. Talk about finding a niche in the freight broker industry. This one is a fun one, and we've been waiting a long time to do it! Support Our Sponsors: QuikSkope - Get a Free Trial: Click Here Levity: Click Here D…
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Freight Accidents, Broker Tools, & More Q&A | Final Mile 81
18:38
18:38
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18:38Nate Cross & Ben Kowalski answer your freight brokering questions and discuss: 🚛 Handling Accidents on Your Loads – What to do when an accident happens involving one of your shipments. 🖥️ Essential Software for a New Brokerage – What’s worth the investment and where you can cut costs when launching your freight brokerage. 📄 Brokers & BOLs – Do cust…
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How Freight Brokers Quote New Shippers | Episode 281
1:03:15
1:03:15
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1:03:15🎙 Mastering Freight Rates & Market Trends Unlock the keys to freight success in this episode! We break down essential strategies for quoting, negotiating, and navigating market shifts in logistics. 🔹 Freight Rate Negotiations – Tips to master the art of pricing and securing the best deals. 🔹 Trucking Capacity & Market Trends – How to interpret heat…
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Dispatcher Pay, New Broker Tips, & Produce Claims | Final Mile 80
22:52
22:52
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22:52Nate Cross & Ben Kowalski answer your freight brokering questions and discuss: 💰 Dispatcher Fees – How much should you pay per load or per week for tracking and tracing? 🎯 Lessons for New Brokers – The one piece of advice industry veterans wish they had when starting. 🚛 Broker vs. Carrier Load Dumping – Why brokers sometimes tell carriers to dump l…
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How to Move Your First Load With a New Customer | Episode 280
57:58
57:58
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57:58🎙️ Freight, Trade & Touchdowns Freight Brokerage 101 – Learn how to quote a new shipper and secure your first load. Trade & Tariffs – The impact of trade wars, Mexican border policies, and USPS parcel suspensions. NFL & Laughs – Super Bowl hot takes, referee favoritism, and Ben’s daddy-daughter dance. LTL Changes – Updates on freight class shifts a…
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Low Rates, Claims, & More Q&A | Final Mile 79
18:09
18:09
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18:09Nate Cross & Ben Kowalski answer your freight brokering questions and discuss: Working as a Freight Broker as a Foreigner Low Rates Explained Freight Claims with a Co-Broker Arrangement Support Our Sponsors: QuikSkope - Get a Free Trial: Click Here Levity: Click Here DAT Freight & Analytics - Get 10% off your first year! DAT Power - Brokers & Carri…
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Sales Pipeline Management & Follow Up | Episode 279
1:05:19
1:05:19
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1:05:19We recently talked about prospecting and lead generation, but how do you follow up with a shipper? What do you say? When should you follow up? These are common questions and we're breaking this down in detail on this second episode in a series on freight broker prospecting. Support Our Sponsors: QuikSkope - Get a Free Trial: Click Here Levity: Clic…
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Marketing & Operations: #1 in series - "Scaling a business in balance with Robin Shelley, Founder.
25:36
25:36
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25:36Send us a text Send us an email On this show, Wade and Robin start a series of discussions of how marketing and operations connect and collaborate to scale a small to midsize business. Both have worked together on several brands with success. You will learn about DTC, Retail channels and discover pitfalls to avoid, learn when to hire fractional hel…
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Taxes, Carrier Partnerships, and Broker Transparency | Final Mile 78
18:12
18:12
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18:12Nate Cross & Ben Kowalski answer your freight brokering questions and discuss: Freight Broker Taxes Building a Carrier Network Broker Transparency Support Our Sponsors: QuikSkope - Get a Free Trial: Click Here Levity: Click Here DAT Freight & Analytics - Get 10% off your first year! DAT Power - Brokers & Carriers: Click Here Recommended Products: C…
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🎙️ Master Freight Sales with Confidence Ready to exceed your shippers' expectations? In this episode of Freight360, we share essential strategies to elevate your freight sales game. 🌟 What You’ll Learn: Smart Sales Strategies: Balance price, service, and quality while identifying ideal customers. Cold Calling Confidence: Overcome nerves, build trus…
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Bonus Episode: Chiefs vs. Bills Preview (with Trey Griggs)
21:21
21:21
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21:21As the AFC Championship looms, we’re asking the big questions: Can Josh Allen and the Bills finally topple the Mahomes-Kelce connection, or will the Chiefs' dynasty march on? We're bringing you every play, every stat, and every moment that matters from this epic clash of titans. 🏈 Ready to dive into the future of the league? Hit play, and let’s tal…
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Cold Calling Strategies & More Q&A | Final Mile 77
21:41
21:41
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21:41Nate Cross & Ben Kowalski answer your freight brokering questions and discuss: Understanding spot rates Cold calling strategies Credit approval for customers Support Our Sponsors: QuikSkope - Get a Free Trial: Click Here Levity: Click Here DAT Freight & Analytics - Get 10% off your first year! DAT Power - Brokers & Carriers: Click Here Recommended …
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