From Roofing to Freight Leadership with Jeff Dickinson | Ep 33

In this episode of Miles and Mentors: A Trucking Podcast, host Alex sits down with Jeff Dickinson — founder of RGTX Logistics Solutions, long-time industry leader, and known throughout logistics circles as The Bodacious Cowboy. With over 45 years in freight and logistics, Jeff brings a candid, no-nonsense approach to mentorship, business, and building a sustainable career in the industry.

Jeff kicks off with his unexpected transition into logistics — from nearly falling off a roof as a roofing contractor to jumping into a warehouse job that launched his entire career. He reflects on how mentorship, discipline, and a willingness to ask hard questions shaped his early success, eventually moving into leadership and strategy roles across warehousing, brokerage, and supply chain.

Throughout the conversation, Jeff emphasizes the value of failure in professional growth, noting that the most meaningful lessons come from falling on your face and getting back up. He shares hard-won truths about adapting to technology, learning every aspect of the business (from shipper to broker), and building trust with carriers — not through shortcuts, but by showing up and doing the work.

Jeff also gets deeply personal about launching RGTX Logistics Solutions, including a tough first year where he only made $900. He explains how focusing on enterprise clients, rejecting the spot market, and offering dedicated service has helped him build lasting relationships that drive growth without sacrificing ethics or quality.

A major portion of the episode is dedicated to fraud in freight — a growing issue that Jeff is actively addressing through his work on the Freight Fraud Task Force. He shares why vetting carriers properly, staying off load boards, and protecting your brand’s reputation are non-negotiables in today’s climate.

The episode also explores Jeff’s commitment to mentorship, especially his advocacy for women in logistics. As co-host of Empowering Women in Logistics, Jeff speaks to the importance of recognizing female talent and creating equity in a historically male-dominated space. He shares stories of mentoring individuals who rose to VP-level roles and explains why mentoring is the most fulfilling part of his career.

Jeff closes the conversation with a powerful message: listen with intent, lead with integrity, and never stop learning — because in this industry, respect isn’t handed to you. “It’s earned — it’s not given.”