From the Army to the Logistics Lounge | Robert "Pedro" Petersen | Ep 23

In this episode of Miles and Mentors, Robert “Pedro” Petersen, co-host of the Logistics Lounge, shares his journey through the logistics industry, from military service to truck driving, brokering, and media. With nearly two decades in logistics, he provides a firsthand look at career transitions, industry challenges, and the power of networking in trucking and freight brokerage.

Robert’s introduction to logistics began in the military, where he served as a motor transport operator. After leaving the service, he transitioned into civilian trucking, quickly advancing to high-paying local and regional roles. Recognizing the limitations of income growth as a driver, he pursued a degree in supply chain logistics management and worked across various sectors, including shipper operations, retail logistics, and fleet management.

His move into brokering came during the COVID-19 freight boom, allowing him to step off the road while leveraging his experience to build a successful career. In 2023, he co-founded the Logistics Lounge podcast, initially as a sales tool, but it quickly became a powerful platform for industry networking and education. Through the podcast, Robert and his co-host have built valuable industry relationships, reinforcing the importance of mentorship and shared knowledge.

Robert emphasizes the evolving role of social media and digital networking in logistics, particularly on platforms like LinkedIn. He discusses how professional networking has transformed his career and encourages truck drivers, brokers, and logistics professionals to leverage these tools to build connections and expand opportunities.

With a strong focus on mentorship, Robert highlights the importance of continuously learning and surrounding oneself with experienced professionals. He shares lessons from his military background, including the value of punctuality, organization, and adaptability in logistics. His advice for newcomers is to find mentors, stay engaged in industry conversations, and always seek to improve their knowledge.

For more from Robert Petersen, follow him on LinkedIn and check out the Logistics Lounge podcast. Tune in to Miles and Mentors for more expert insights from leaders shaping the future of logistics.