In this episode of Miles and Mentors: A Trucking Podcast, Chris Jolly, founder of Freight Coach Logistics and host of The Freight Coach podcast, shares a wide-ranging and deeply personal look into the mindset and mechanics of building a freight business that lasts. Chris opens up about his roots in a multigenerational trucking family and how those early experiences shaped his commitment to integrity and consistency. He talks through the early struggles of launching his own brokerage, why he believes the industry needs more operational transparency, and how leadership in freight must come from those willing to do the hard work behind the scenes. The conversation dives into what most brokers still get wrong about carrier partnerships, the critical importance of knowing your numbers, and why standard operating procedures are non-negotiable for brokers and carriers alike. Chris also challenges the freight community to stop glamorizing hustle culture and instead focus on long-term strategy, personal development, and sustainable business practices. He breaks down financial fundamentals like cash flow management and factoring, explains how to trim expenses during downturns, and gives real-world advice for new brokers looking to start strong. Throughout the episode, Chris makes the case for real mentorship over empty hype, urging industry professionals to create space for those still climbing and to measure success by impact, not social media presence. From leadership and sales to industry outlooks and building community, this episode is packed with actionable insight, tough truths, and practical wisdom for anyone serious about growing in freight. Whether you are an owner-operator, new broker, or veteran logistics pro, this is the episode that reconnects you with why you started and how to stay the course.
