Shifting Gears: Trucking to YouTube | Gary Thompson | Ep 8

In this episode of Miles and Mentors, veteran truck driver Gary shares his journey into trucking, the hard-earned lessons he’s learned over the years, and his unfiltered take on what it truly means to be a truck driver. With experience hauling for major companies, managing tight schedules, and adapting to the changing industry, he offers valuable insights for new and aspiring drivers.

Gary’s introduction to trucking was influenced by his family. His father and other relatives worked in the industry, giving him early exposure to life on the road. However, it wasn’t until later in life, when health issues made physically demanding jobs more difficult, that he pursued trucking as a career. Looking for financial stability and independence, he enrolled in CDL training and quickly realized that trucking was more than just driving—it was a complete lifestyle shift.

One of the biggest surprises for Gary was the amount of paperwork, compliance requirements, and logistical planning involved in trucking. From managing logs to coordinating dispatches and dealing with unexpected breakdowns, he explains that drivers are responsible for much more than simply moving freight. The ability to multitask, solve problems under pressure, and stay organized is crucial to success on the road.

A major challenge for new drivers is adjusting to life away from home. Gary describes trucking as a career that demands full commitment, likening it to a high-stakes job that consumes nearly every aspect of daily life. He emphasizes that the money in trucking can be great, but it comes at the cost of personal sacrifices, long hours, and unpredictable schedules. He urges new drivers to set realistic expectations about time away from family and learn to manage their lifestyle accordingly.

Throughout the episode, Gary shares practical advice for new drivers, including the importance of safety, time management, and planning ahead for fuel stops and parking. He discusses the difficulty of finding safe overnight parking and how poor planning can lead to unnecessary stress and wasted time. He also stresses the importance of maintaining a professional mindset, staying patient in difficult situations, and understanding that trucking requires continuous adaptation.

Looking ahead, Gary sees technology and regulations continuing to reshape the industry. He warns new drivers to stay informed on changes to electronic logging devices (ELDs), safety mandates, and freight market fluctuations. He also highlights the importance of networking and building strong relationships within the industry to stay ahead of challenges.

For anyone considering trucking as a career, Gary’s message is clear—once you commit to trucking, it becomes a lifelong path. The industry offers financial rewards, but it requires resilience, dedication, and a willingness to embrace the lifestyle.

If you’re starting a trucking business or growing your fleet and need expert guidance, reach out to us today—our industry expert partners can help you make the right decisions for long-term success.