This episode comes from the archives as one of their favorite conversations of the year, featuring Carlton and Lee Wing of Arkansas Great Outdoors. They talk about their journey into outdoor television, their love for nature, and how getting outside can change your life.

If you’re into trucking, the outdoors, or just a good story, click HERE to listen.

The post The Oakley Podcast: Revisiting a Listener Favorite with Carlton and Leigh Wing of Arkansas Great Outdoors appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

We recently asked our Truck Drivers USA community: “What’s a random item you have in your truck right now that would confuse non-drivers?” The answers revealed a mix of humor, practicality, and personality.

Tools of the Trade

Many drivers mentioned specialized equipment that is second nature to trucking, but would leave most non-drivers scratching their heads.

Benjamin Rickel: “Fittings for unloading hopper trailers.”

John Oyer: “Glad hand grommets. Haven’t driven since April 1992, but had them.”

Roger Hershberger: “Tire thumper.”

Valerie Lewis: “Tramec Slone Quick-Fix and installation tool.”

Kirby Keene: “A tire gauge.”

Raymond White: “Caging bolts.”

To non-drivers, these items might look like random parts or gadgets. But to truckers, they are essential for keeping freight moving safely and efficiently.

Old-School Gear That Still Matters

Even in today’s digital world, some drivers keep traditional tools that newer drivers might never touch.

Jon Miles: “Rand McNally trucker atlas and a CB. That would confuse a lot of new drivers, too!!!”

Susan Miller Ratcliffe: “A CB radio and mic. Or, just ask, what’s your handle?”

Clint Frank: “A map.”

GPS may dominate modern trucking, but seasoned drivers know the value of a physical map or a CB radio when technology fails.

Personal Touches on the Road

A truck isn’t just a workplace; it’s a second home. That is why many drivers bring along items that add comfort, entertainment, or a sense of self.

Shelly Sparrow: “Disposable camera”

Victor N Jessica Castillo: “Taylor Swift CDs.”

Will Lavander: “MY BIBLE.”

Patricia Peck: “Crochet hook.”

From favorite music to hobbies to faith, these little details show how truckers personalize their time on the road.

Why These Items Matter

What might look strange to outsiders often makes perfect sense to drivers. Specialized tools keep trucks running, old-school navigation ensures reliability, and personal belongings bring comfort during long hauls.

These responses remind us that every cab tells a story. Behind each wheel is not just a driver, but a person with unique habits, preferences, and ways of making life on the road feel like home.

The post What’s the Strangest Item in Your Truck? Drivers Share Their Surprising Answers appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

Telling the Industry’s Story

“We believe trucking has storytelling potential that few other industries can match,” said Jeremy Kirkpatrick, ATA’s vice president of public affairs and strategic communications. “This industry touches lives in every community and corner of our country — from the North Slope of Alaska, to the rolling hills of New England, to the streets of South Dallas. These stories need to be told – not only to celebrate the skill, resilience, and humanity of these incredible pros who run the nation’s supply chains, but also to ensure trucking always has a seat at the table when government officials are making decisions that affect our industry and the broader economy.”

DRIVEN is part of ATA’s “Nothing Without Trucking” (NWT) campaign, which seeks to educate policymakers and the public on trucking’s indispensable role in daily American life. The series begins with professional drivers but will later spotlight the interconnected network of roles that power the sector.

A Glimpse Into Unique Trucking Lives

From precision driving champions to individuals building success in underserved communities, DRIVEN delivers deeply human stories. The pilot episodes follow three remarkable individuals whose lives epitomize dedication and resilience in our nation’s trucking industry.

Meet the cast of the pilot episodes:

• Roland Bolduc – A FedEx driver who has twice earned the title of National Truck Driving Championships Grand Champion. Roland’s success is a testament to his focus on precision driving and commitment to safety.
• Tiffany Hargraves – A single mother who braves the Dalton Highway, one of America’s most treacherous routes stretching across Alaska’s North Slope. Her independence and determination mirror the spirit of the trucking profession.
• Germany Williams – After earning a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL), Germany transformed his fortune and founded the South Dallas Driving Academy, a program dedicated to breaking systemic barriers to licensing and creating equal opportunities in underserved communities.

“DRIVEN offers a rare and powerful look at our industry—and our nation—through the eyes of the professionals who keep it moving,” said Nikki Thomas, ATA’s vice president of industry affairs. “ATA is proud to bring their journeys to the screen, celebrating their unwavering commitment to excellence and the transformational impact of trucking. Perhaps most exciting of all is that we’re just getting started, with so many more stories still to tell.”

Join the Journey

Audiences are invited to watch DRIVEN’s trailer and subscribe to the DRIVEN YouTube channel to catch every new episode. The series aims to inspire and educate, giving viewers an intimate look into a vital industry that connects every corner of the country.

For more updates and information, visit DrivenDoc.org.

Image Source: ATA
Source: The Trucker

The post DRIVEN: A Documentary Highlighting the Backbone of America’s Economy appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

“If there were a reality show about your life on the road, what would the title be?”

Hundreds of truckers responded, and their answers were everything from hilarious to heartfelt. These titles reflect the real highs and lows of life on the highway—straight from the people who live it every day.

Real Titles from Real Drivers

Here’s what truck drivers told us when we asked them to name their imaginary life-on-the-road reality show:

• Michael Littleweasel: Going to hell in a handbasket
• John Taylor: Groundhog Day of a Truck Driver
• Crystal Dahlman: The Dumpster Fire
• Alan Myers: Retired Life of a Trucker, Now a School Bus Driver
• Bradley Moscou: Zero to Ten in Traffic
• Andy Kmet: No Good Truckin’ Man, by Slim Dusty (Aussie)
• Ian Wilson: Highway to Hell
• Elvis Johnson: If You’re Going to Be Dumb, You Better Be Tough
• Foster Christensen: Rollin’, Rollin’, Rollin’, Keep Them Trailers Rollin’
• Cody Thurston-Yates: After You Pass, Don’t Slow Down!
• Chris Jensen: HOT MESS EXPRESS (as seen on his dash)
• James Owens Jr: The Real Story of Living in a Tiny Home
• Will Tanner: What Not to Do: What to Expect in Your First 5 Years
• Derrick Klug: Pac-Man Rollin’ a Tank of Flat Dry Reefer
• Clayton Willard: Ooooh, Shouldn’t Have Turned There
• Donald Pearrell: Keeping the Goods Moving
• Jonathan Hobbs: Highway to Heaven
• Bubba Henry: Dazed and Confused – Alright Alright Alright
• Nicole Hellstrom:
  • Oh, That’s What We’re Doing Today?
  • Which Way Am I Going This Time?
  • I’m Lost Again
• Jeanette Trotter: The Trip Didn’t Go as Planned
• Lynn Williams: Believe It or Not
• Mike Brock: Warning: Loose Nuts Behind Wheels of 4-Wheelers
• Theodore Morgan: Ups and Downs of Life on the Road
• Gene Conn: Chasing the Unreachable Dream!
• Alan Schuck: Sacrificed Everything for Other People
• Ben Deere: That Didn’t Work the Way I Thought It Would
• Francine Strickland: Still Waiting to See Alaska & Bears…
• Jaime Saravia: On the Road Again
• Harry Young: Here I Go Again
• Jim Bouland: Driving My Life Away!
• Bill Malaney: Something for Nothing!!
• Victoria Derhak: The Ride of Your Life!
• Timothy Grzanich: Regulation Nation
• Joshua Gianchetta: What’s It Gonna Be Today?
• Class A Cowboy: Class A Cowboy: Highways & Dirt Roads!
• Cory Bennett: Sad Dad
• Rosemarie Gaffney: Is This for Real?
• Eldon Robinson: King of the Road
• Norm Clements: Grabbing Gears
• John Migneault: I Did It My Way…
• Nancy Laughlin: It’s a Lifestyle, Not Just a Job. The Hum of the Engine, the Freedom.
• Joe Trioli: The Rookie
• Harry Strong: Big Wheels Rolling…
• Rose Bates: Fake It ’Til You Make It
• James Horn: One Day at a Time
• Tommy Osman: Safety Violation #3
• Jeff Koberna: Traveling Mam
• Betty Martin: On the Road Again
• Andrew Clements: Rip It Up and Start Again
• Shelly Sparrow: Good Looking Out Parking Lot
• Shawn Brockel: Long Haul, Short Fuse
• Wayne Rogerson: Whacky Races
• Faye Turner: Not Again
• Jay Johnson: The Dark Side
• Robert Myles: Torn, Tired & Twisted
• Timothy Grzanich: Mission Impossible!
• Edo Bellfond: The Complete Show
• Elisa Renaud: Wild and Free.
• Tom J Murphy: Waitin’ on Dispatch.

What This Says About Life on the Road

This wasn’t just a fun question—these responses tell a story. Trucking is more than a job. It’s a lifestyle with unique challenges, unpredictable moments, and stories you just can’t make up. Whether you’re navigating regulations, tight turns, or chasing that perfect parking spot, there’s always something new around the next bend.

Every title here is a reflection of real experiences from the cab. And if you ask us? These truckers deserve a whole network, not just a reality show.

Got a Title of Your Own?

If your trucking journey had a theme song or title, what would it be? Head to our Facebook page and drop yours in the comments.

The post If Your Life on the Road Was a Reality Show, What Would It Be Called? Truckers Weigh In appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

“You get to use one superpower while on the job. What is it?”

The answers? Hilarious, creative, and totally relatable. Here’s what truckers told us when asked about their ultimate power behind the wheel.

The Power to Skip Traffic—Literally

Erik Williams said it best: “Teleporting… like the movie Jumper.”
No traffic jams, no detours, no hours lost in a backup. Just blink, and you’re there.

Brandon Thomas and Bj Bearer also backed up the teleportation dream. It’s clearly a favorite.

And then there’s Chris Noll, who wants flight and super strength “so I can lift my entire semi truck over traffic.” Now that’s commitment.

Invisibility, Cloning, and Mind Control—Yes, Please

Sometimes, it’s not about skipping traffic—it’s about skipping everything else.
Ace Zen wants the power to “make everyone else disappear,” while Charles P. Holtz, Lori Sheridan, Clayton Willard, and Lloyd Dobbler all voted for invisibility.

Aaron York wants “clone on demand. He can do all the work while I sit back and chill.” Respect.

Ryan Nash aims for mind control to score the best parking spot consistently and “clear lanes ahead forever.”

And Teg Turbski would use mind control to “get extreme pay from the company with no questions asked.” Clever and practical.

The Fix-It Superpowers

Robert Pence chose molecular manipulation: “Make all the roads in front of me perfect and indestructible. No more construction and a nice smooth ride. My truck always runs perfectly.”

Ralph Vander Kooy just wants “to fix stupid.” (We get it.)

Festus Lemmers would love “the ability to deal with the inept.” If only that came with a GPS update, too.

And Annette Hardman dreamed up a time warp to eliminate miles and wear and tear from the truck. Genius.

Big Wins and Big Money

Daniel Newton wants “the power to pick the winning lottery numbers.”

Kay Brubaker dreams of winning big and quitting the road altogether.

Geronimo Forbes went with “double pay—like double XP.” Every mile counts twice? Yes, please.

Brianne Krigbaum kept it simple and honest: “Get paid more money.”

Martin Ash wants “the Midas touch—with a special glove so it doesn’t turn everything into gold.” Just enough to retire, no big deal!

Laser Eyes, X-Ray Vision, and Just Plain Chaos

Jim Sorrells and John Taylor wanted X-ray vision—hopefully for safety checks, but who knows?

Rick Munson would go telekinetic to “launch bad actors 10,000 feet in the air.”

And Jed Davis wants the power to make others hallucinate, mainly to keep dangerous drivers far, far away—bonus points for creativity.

The Quiet Heroes

Not every answer was about power—some were about healing.

Carlton Ross Jr. chose “To heal the sick.”
Kenneth G Gholson Jr. said, “To do away with cancer.”

A Few More Worth Mentioning

• J Scott Fischer: “Always sunny.” (Because bad weather is the real villain.)
• Jack Potts: “More hours.” (A rare one, but maybe there’s a bonus involved?)
• Bobby Johnson: “3 more mph.” (For that smooth, legal cruise.)
• Aki Hytönen: “Change Mercedes to Scania. Or even Volvo.” (Brand loyalty is real.)
• Octavia Corral: “Flying.” (Classic. Efficient.)

Got a superpower we missed?

Whether you’re teleporting past traffic in your mind or wishing for a clone to take the wheel, you’re not alone. These answers show just how creative—and real—truckers get when imagining a smoother day on the job.

Want in on more conversations like this?
Join thousands of drivers who are already part of the Truck Drivers USA community. Share your own stories, get driver-relevant news, and connect with others who understand life on the road. Join the community today here.

The post If Truck Drivers Had Superpowers, Here’s What They’d Choose appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

The A/C Loyalists: Windows Down, Tunes Up

For a lot of drivers, music is non-negotiable—even if it means braving the heat.

Michelle Dittmann keeps it simple: “No A/C. Roll the window down and turn up the tunes.”
Jason Cromer agrees: “No A/C. I always have Pandora.”
Joseph Perlman says, “No AC. You can roll the windows down, but I can’t drive without music.”
James Stem summed it up perfectly: “No AC. I have to have my radio.”
Charlie Davis chimed in: “No A/C, gotta have music.”

Others, like Yannick Dils, got creative: “No A/C. Turn up the radio and open the fridge for cooling.”

Team No Radio: Gotta Stay Cool

Then there’s the crew, who’s all about keeping their cool—literally.

Shawn Rutherford put it plainly: “No radio, easy—unless it’s winter.”
Jeff Trelford gets by with a workaround: “No radio, I’ve got a Bluetooth boombox.”
Cory Clark doesn’t hesitate: “Definitely no radio… A/C is almost a must.”
Deborah Caputo agrees: “No air conditioning.”
Lela Pearson, Julie Davis, Rick Beckwith, and many others said they’d rather ditch the radio if it meant keeping their A/C.

For Brian David, it’s about practicality: “No radio. I can always use my phone for entertainment, but personal experience tells me the old 2-55 A/C sucks.”

“Been There, Done That” Veterans

Some drivers didn’t flinch—because they’ve already done both.

David Barandica recalled: “I had a job driving a box truck without any of those.”
Charles Russell took it up a notch: “I’ve done both and driven L.A. to Norfolk with neither A/C or radio in late July.”
Evan Siegel shared: “Drove from Lordsburg, New Mexico to Houston with no A/C in the summer.”
Mike Eitner, with over 3 million miles under his belt, said he’s done it both ways.

And Then There’s the Middle Ground…

Some folks said it depends, like Deborah Sison, who said, “No radio if it’s during summer. No A/C if it’s during winter.”
Russell Zinck added: “It all depends on if it’s winter or summer.”

Others got philosophical—or just plain funny. Timothy Henry said: “No radio because I’ve got a good voice.”
Hope N Rick Gonzales agreed: “No radio, I can sing!”

What’s the Final Verdict?

From phone-streamed music to Bluetooth speakers and ice packs to cracked windows, drivers have found all kinds of ways to adapt. But one thing’s for sure—truckers will always find a way to make the ride work when it comes to comfort on the road.

Whether you’re team A/C or team radio, it’s clear that every driver has their own must-haves. The real takeaway? It’s not always about comfort—it’s about making it through the miles your way.

The post Truckers Sound Off No Radio or No A/C on the Road appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

Recently, Truck Drivers USA asked drivers to share their favorite CB slang and codes. Here’s a look at some of the best responses from drivers who know the true spirit of the open road.

Classic CB Codes That Never Get Old

Many drivers brought back the phrases that have been staples for generations.

Charlie Miehle Sr. painted the picture clearly:
“Them bears are as thick as bugs on a bumper; they even have a bear in the air.”

Danny Morrison and Thomas Carman kept it sharp and straightforward:
“Have a bear in the air.”

Bruce Dickman added:
“Plain wrapper ahead doing radar,”
While Ethan Elder shared a similar warning:
“Got a bear in a plain brown wrapper.”

Thomas Stoddard reminded everyone that the sky isn’t always clear:
“We got a bear in the air with a set of portables.”

Paula Sheaffer had her own version:
“Bear in the bushes with a BB gun.”

CB radios were — and still are — the fastest way to warn about law enforcement ahead of these drivers.

Hammer Down and Keep It Moving

When the road’s wide open, it’s all about speed, freedom, and that hammer-down attitude.

Steve Naylor gave the green light:
“Hammer down! Ain’t no bears in town!”

Walter C. Yasuk encouraged drivers to keep rolling:
“Let’s drop the peddle and gooooo.”

Carlos Bantigue tied it to that feeling of heading home:
“Hammer down, I’m homeward bound.”

And Tim Elliott added a little extra CB spirit:
“The big word is out to hammer down! Road harp said that, and I’m gone! Rodger!”

The energy in these responses shows how CB radios kept drivers connected not just for information — but for motivation.

Fuel Stops, Breaks, and Roadside Lingo

Truck stops have always had their own slang, and drivers shared some favorites that still bring a smile.

Anthony A. Lasanta called it like it was:
“Stopping at the choke and puke for that go-go juice… 10-10 on the side.”

Dave McCormick added a quick line that says it all:
“Full house at the pickle park.”

David Holland remembered the old days of polite CB etiquette:
“Break 19 Break 19 was how we politely got inside conversations of drivers just blowing wind.”

Dean Thompson gave a nod to the seasoned pros:
“Fellow driver, you were shifting green when I first started driving.”

You can feel the brotherhood and history tied to every mile, even in simple phrases.

Moments That Made Everyone Laugh

Some drivers shared their funniest CB moments, reminding us that the road is never too long when laughter is along for the ride.

Clara Lane shared a favorite memory:
 “My husband and I were sitting in traffic, and an Irish-sounding man came on the CB and said (imagine the accent), ‘Why are we sitting in the middle of the road?’ I said (with the accent), ‘We’re looking for the gold at the end of the rainbow.’ Lol, I got so many truckers coming back laughing. My handle is Pepples.”

Jack Hamilton brought some energy to the radio:
“Gonna kick the sunroof open, stand up, drive this thing like a John Deere tractor, waving at everybody like Santa Claus in the Christmas parade.”

Robin Johnson kept it old-school with his sign-off:
“10-4, good buddy, Spider-Man out.”

Pasquale DeMuria gave a classic callout:
“Breaker Breaker 1-9, Mickey Mouse here, looking for Donald Duck. You got your ears on Good Buddy?”

Marlene Leaf added her own handle call:
“Candy cane, this is Rusty nail.”

Radio Checks and Quick Banter

Many of the best CB chatter comes from quick checks and playful comebacks.

Gary Stephen shouted a crystal-clear connection:
“You’re coming in Wall to Wall and Tree Top Tall.”

Carlos Chacon shared a classic:
“Break 1-9, can I get a radio check… It’s in the mail driver.”

Even in short exchanges, you can hear the camaraderie — the quick wit that makes CB culture one-of-a-kind.

CB Slang Keeps the Spirit of the Road Alive

From warnings to good-natured jokes at truck stops, CB radio slang continues to tie drivers together, mile after mile. Whether you’re hammering down or just checking in, these words carry the history and humor of life behind the wheel.

Join the Truck Drivers USA community!
Want to be part of the conversation? Whether you’ve got more CB radio slang or just want to connect with fellow truckers, join us at Truck Drivers USA. Share your stories, tips, and favorite moments from the road — and stay connected with a community that understands the journey.

The post Favorite CB Radio Slang and Codes from the Truck Drivers USA Community appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

1. Safety Comes First

Veteran drivers emphasize the importance of prioritizing safety above all else. Ward Miller wisely advises, “No load or delivery time is as valuable as your life.” Arnold Jaimes Jr. echoes this sentiment: “No load is worth your life. Slow it down and arrive safely.”

2. Keep Your Cool Under Pressure

Driving a truck, especially in challenging conditions, requires a calm mind. Glen Hidlay shared his wisdom: “#1, don’t panic. Find a safe place to pull over and calmly figure out a solution to your problem.” Rick Petersen adds: “When in doubt, get out. Whether it’s weather, tricky situations, or even your health—take a step back and keep it safe.”

3. Plan, Prepare, and Be Resourceful

Success in trucking often comes down to preparation. Susie Gilcrease recommends keeping essentials on hand: “Carry replacement bulbs, extra placards, grease packs for the 5th wheel, and some basic tools. Also, keep snacks and drinks in your truck—truck stops can be expensive.” Jeremy Morgan and Ricky Groover also stress the importance of learning how to read an atlas, instead of relying solely on GPS.

4. Keep Learning

Trucking is a career that thrives on constant growth. Sunset Smoky offers this advice: “Get all your endorsements and learn to drive every manual you can, especially a 13-speed.” Sheri Horton Frenden reminds drivers to listen to their experienced peers: “Take advice from veteran drivers—they’ve been where you are.”

Raymond Sulak highlights the value of diversifying your skills: “When given the chance to learn a new piece of equipment, do it. Learning a variety of equipment will make you more versatile and open doors to opportunities.”

5. Trust Your Instincts

Many drivers urge rookies to trust their gut feelings. Doug Bray keeps it simple: “You’re in charge of that truck. If you don’t feel comfortable, don’t do it.” Amber Mendenhall adds: “Your safety is more important than any load, especially in winter conditions.”

6. Patience is Key

Dealing with traffic and tight schedules can test anyone’s patience. Terrence Brady offers valuable advice: “Work on your patience constantly. Stay focused on the road.” Roger Willis suggests: “Stay out of the cluster of trucks and always scan ahead to anticipate potential issues.”

7. Respect Yourself and Others

Respect goes a long way in trucking. Paul Linnemeyer reminds us: “Be courteous to everyone. Stop and help your fellow drivers, and always respect the rights of others.”

8. Take Care of Your Health

The trucking lifestyle can be demanding. Chris Knox cautions: “It can take a toll on your personal life, so be sure you want to do it. But it can also be a very good life.” Dennis Everett emphasizes being prepared for all situations: “Always have a coat, tools, coolant, oil, fuel additive for winter, and washer fluid.”

9. Avoid Complacency

Even experienced drivers need to stay vigilant. Frank LeClair reminds us: “Don’t get complacent. Just when you think you’ve got everything down, that’s when mistakes happen.”

10. Stay Grounded

Kenneth Wagner offers this simple piece of advice: “Stay focused, and always keep safety as your top priority.”

Final Thoughts

Trucking is a rewarding career but comes with its unique challenges. The advice shared by these seasoned professionals highlights the importance of safety, preparation, patience, and respect—both for yourself and others. If you’re starting your journey, take their wisdom to heart. As Bishop Hinners puts it, “The #1 responsibility of your job is to get you, your truck, and your freight to its destination safely and on time.”

For more stories and support from drivers just like you, join our Truck Drivers USA Facebook community. It’s a place where you can connect, share, and learn from others who understand the journey.

Stay safe out there, and remember—you’re never alone on the road.

The post Essential Advice for Rookie Truck Drivers from Seasoned Pros appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.