Chris Polk of Blue Ribbon Logistical Solutions
Manage episode 432984646 series 3591726
Join us for an insightful episode of The Miles and Mentors Podcast as we sit down with Chris Polk, Fleet Manager at Blue Ribbon Logistical Solutions. Chris shares his extensive journey through the trucking industry, from his humble beginnings to his current role, where he manages a fleet and an innovative 18-month master class program for aspiring owner-operators. With over two decades of experience, Chris offers invaluable advice on running a successful trucking business, the importance of mentorship, and the future of the industry.
Show Notes with Timestamps01:10 - Podcast Overview
03:21 - Meet Chris Polk of Blue Ribbon Logistical Solutions
05:10 - Chris's Background and Journey in the Trucking Industry
11:10 - Initial Challenges and Overcoming Failures
15:11 - The Turning Point and Reflecting on Past Mistakes
19:30 - The Manifesto and New Beginnings
24:30 - Joining Blue Ribbon Logistical Solutions
29:20 - The 18-Month Master Class Program
34:00 - Challenges and Realities of Being an Owner-Operator
38:15 - Understanding the Business Side of Trucking
42:00 - The Importance of Business Education in Trucking
46:20 - Chris’s Early Days in Trucking
50:45 - The Need for Comprehensive Training Programs
55:05 - Teaching Basic Skills: Reading Maps and Math
58:50 - The Disconnect in Basic Skills
01:02:30 - Challenges of Modern Trucking
01:07:00 - The Need for Practical Skills and Knowledge
01:11:45 - Success Rate of the Master Class Program
01:16:20 - The Reality of Self-Employment
01:21:00 - The Hard Work Behind Business Success
01:25:50 - The Unique Challenges of Running a Trucking Business
01:30:20 - The Importance of Mentorship
01:35:15 - Customer First Mentality in Business
01:40:30 - The Role of Experience and Mentorship
01:45:15 - Learning from Experienced Mentors
01:50:45 - Key Advice for New Entrants in the Trucking Industry
01:54:20 - Steps for Starting a Successful Trucking Career
01:58:05 - The Importance of Staying with Your First Job for One Year
02:02:15 - Building Relationships and Learning the System
02:05:45 - The Future of Trucking: Blockchain Technology
02:10:00 - Understanding Blockchain and Its Impact on Trucking
02:12:00 - Embracing Opportunities and Turning Off Distractions
02:14:15 - Running a Successful Trucking Business Without Your Own Numbers
02:18:00 - When to Consider Getting Your Own Authority
02:21:45 - Debunking the Myth of Older Trucks for Avoiding ELDs
02:25:00 - The Practicality of Running Older Trucks
02:29:00 - The Misconceptions About ELDs and Trip Planning
02:32:00 - Chris's Advice for New Entrants and Plugging Blue Ribbon Logistical Solutions
Guest InformationFor more about Chris Polk and Blue Ribbon Logistical Solutions:
Website: https://www.blueribbonlogistics.com/
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9 episodes