This week, we compare two paths in the delivery business: Amazon DSP and Bread Route Investments. Stephen Rhein and Luke Price join us to break down the core differences between these models, what sets them apart, and what prospective operators should consider when evaluating each option. Tune in for a clear, high-level overview to help you understand how these opportunities differ and which may better align with your goals.

Recorded live at the Route Consultant Expo 2026 in Nashville, this keynote panel—hosted by Rahmel Wattley, founder of Truck N’ Hustle—features logistics leaders Amy Byers, Adam Angell, and Nick Hafen on how to crisis-proof route and transportation businesses amid constant change. They discuss major disruptions across FedEx and Amazon networks, including evolving safety equipment requirements, shifting fleet maintenance responsibilities, and the impact of larger package volume and FedEx 2.0 integration. The panel shares practical lessons on protecting profitability through strong vendor relationships, disciplined cash-flow management, operational KPIs, building in-house maintenance capabilities, and developing management layers and cross-training to reduce risk. Audience Q&A covers scaling timing, recognizing readiness to grow, finding distressed opportunities, and considerations for operating routes in other markets.

This week on Industry Insights with Route Consultant, we focus on business exits and how to prepare long before a sale to maximize value and make the business transferable. Josh is joined by Steve Alverson and Austin Coley of McCall Wealth Advisors, who explain how they help owners plan through and beyond a sale by first clarifying personal goals and the “why” behind the business. They discuss why exit planning should start early, how buyers pay for future cash flow, and common value killers like taxes, fees, unrealistic expectations, and debt. 

This week on Industry Insights with Route Consultant, we focus on business exits and how to prepare long before a sale to maximize value and make the business transferable. Josh is joined by Steve Alverson and Austin Coley of McCall Wealth Advisors, who explain how they help owners plan through and beyond a sale by first clarifying personal goals and the “why” behind the business. They discuss why exit planning should start early, how buyers pay for future cash flow, and common value killers like taxes, fees, unrealistic expectations, and debt. 

In this special episode of Industry Insights LIVE, Josh Gregory is joined by Amy Byers, COO of Slicker Trucking, to answer audience questions on today’s biggest contractor topics. Amy shares her experience running P&D and linehaul operations across multiple terminals, including operating under FedEx 2.0 and what contractors should expect around service expectations, late dispatch challenges, communication with FedEx, and opportunities for growth. 

Recorded live at the Route Consultant Expo 2026, this special episode features Kevin Brunner, owner of SellMyFDX and Q Companies, sharing practical tax strategies for business owners planning an exit. Kevin explains how a 537 Installment Sale Trust can defer taxes by routing sale proceeds through a trust, allowing sellers to reinvest more capital, create flexible income streams, and potentially improve deal terms for both buyers and sellers. He covers key concepts like installment notes, ordinary-income treatment of distributions, step-up in basis at death, and how the trust can support reinvestment, retirement income planning, and legacy goals. Kevin also outlines his firm’s investment approach focused on consistent income and risk management, plus options for structuring complex transactions and coordinating with CPA-led tax planning.

In this special episode of Industry Insights LIVE, Josh Gregory is joined by Amy Byers, COO of Slicker Trucking, to answer audience questions on today’s biggest contractor topics. Amy shares her experience running P&D and linehaul operations across multiple terminals, including operating under FedEx 2.0 and what contractors should expect around service expectations, late dispatch challenges, communication with FedEx, and opportunities for growth. 

In recognition of Women’s History Month, host Josh Gregory sits down with Annalee Cate, CEO of the RCPA Fuel Card, and Grace Bay, CEO of Hello Truck Lease, to discuss their paths into the male-dominated logistics industry and what they’ve learned as leaders.

In part two of Industry Insights with Route Consultant, Ellen Voie, founder of the nonprofit Women in Trucking, explains practical steps for employers and drivers to advance women’s participation in trucking and supply chain. She describes the association’s role as a collective voice providing education and networking, including free webinars, white papers like an anti-harassment employment guide, and data such as the Women in Trucking Index. Ellen shares recruiting and retention tips, discusses common barriers like hiring bias, lack of women in visible leadership, and workplace “covering,” and emphasizes building cultures that encourage feedback and make employees comfortable bringing their whole selves to work. The conversation highlights benefits of women in leadership and safety-focused roles, addresses preparing for transgender applicants, and notes the Women in Trucking Foundation’s scholarships and Ellen’s book, From Dispatcher to Disruptor.

In this episode of Industry Insights, Ellen Voie, founder of the Women in Trucking Association, shares how she entered the trucking industry and what led her to start a nonprofit focused on supporting women across all roles in transportation. She explains the organization’s mission to encourage employment, reduce barriers, and celebrate pioneers, along with the early challenges of building credibility and getting companies to take the issue seriously. Voie discusses how better data, stronger safety culture, and practical workplace changes can help attract and retain more women, and clarifies that the association is open to anyone who supports the mission, including men. The episode also highlights key moments of growth and impact and previews a follow-up conversation on practical implementation.

Recorded live at the Route Consultant Expo 2026, this special Industry Insights episode features a FedEx P&D contractor Q&A, hosted by Brenda Shelley. The panel shares operational moves that boost profitability. They break down driver pay models and incentives, what to look for when buying a first P&D route, why hybrid dense/rural markets can be highly profitable, and more. Finally, they address sharing drivers across terminals, preparing for unforeseen events, and how compliance and adapting to FedEx 2.0 impact contractor success.

Recorded live at the 2026 Route Consultant Expo, this special episode of Industry Insights features Roland Brewer, Co-Founder and President of Realm Health, explaining why healthcare premiums are rising and how logistics and last-mile business owners can control costs while improving driver retention.

Join Leah Nelson and Stephen Rhein from Route Consultant in this special episode of Industry Insights, recorded live at the Route Consultant Expo 2026. This episode provides a comprehensive guide on the financial aspects of bread route investments, including the core decisions that drive profitability. Topics covered include understanding gross and net revenue, territory knowledge, inventory management, expense control, and the unique valuation metrics within the bread industry. Whether you're considering entering the bread business or looking to optimize your existing routes, this episode is packed with practical strategies and expert insights.

In this special episode, recorded live at the Route Consultant Expo 2026, Alex Frum, owner of Alpha Kilo Logistics, emphasizes the critical need for Linehaul contractors to establish a comprehensive employee handbook. Alex shares his extensive experience and details why such handbooks are essential for compliance with federal, state, and FedEx requirements. He also discusses the handbook's role in protecting businesses from lawsuits, communicating company culture and expectations, and ensuring standardized treatment of all employees. Tune in for practical insights and industry advice on building a safer and more structured work environment.

Join us for this special episode of Industry Insights with Route Consultant, recorded live at the Route Consultant Expo 2026. COO Amy and BC Manager Mike from Slicker Trucking share their experiences and insights on the FedEx 2.0 transition after two years of implementation. Learn about the challenges and solutions they faced, including managing new time commitments, maintaining security standards, and integrating express deliveries. Gain valuable strategies for making smarter investments and building stronger businesses in the logistics industry.

Join Josh Gregory, VP of Operations at Route Consultant, for a special episode of Industry Insights recorded live at the 2026 Route Consultant Expo. This episode provides an introduction to the logistics space, offering actionable strategies and fresh perspectives for both new entrants and experienced professionals. 

Learn about the FedEx P&D and Linehaul models, the nuances of entering the Amazon delivery arena, and opportunities in the bread distribution industry. Gain insights on navigating financials, safety, and fleet management to ensure long-term success in the logistics industry.

In this episode of Industry Insights with Route Consultant, we sit down with Alex Frum, owner of Alpha Kilo Logistics, to discuss the critical topic of safety in the logistics industry. Alex explains how FedEx tracks and grades contractor safety using the Safety Results Summary (SRS) and Safety Results Indicator (SRI). 

In this episode of Industry Insights with Route Consultant, we dive deep into what to expect from the Route Consultant Expo 2026, featuring insights from experts Stephen Rhein and Butch Butler. Gain exclusive previews on sessions, trends, and strategies that will help contractors in the logistics industry succeed. Whether you're in the FedEx, bread distribution, or other logistics spaces, this is packed with valuable knowledge on how to navigate operational challenges, growth opportunities, and much more. Join us and prepare to make smarter investments and build stronger businesses in 2026!

Join us on Industry Insights as we explore the future of the electric vehicle industry with guest John Harris, CEO of Harbinger Motors. Learn about the commitments major corporations are making to renewable energy and the importance of electric vehicles in the logistics sector. John sheds light on Harbinger's unique approach to building from the ground up, emphasizing affordability and reliability in the medium-duty vehicle segment. 

Discover how Harbinger's in-house production of core components allows them to offer electric trucks at prices comparable to diesel models from day one, how their modular battery systems serve diverse range requirements, and what advanced features and real-world savings their trucks provide. Don't miss out on this insightful conversation about innovative solutions and the future of commercial electric vehicles.

In this episode of Industry Insights with Route Consultant, we sit down with Chad Johnson, VP of Franchise Services at Flowers Foods. Join us as we explore the process and requirements for becoming an independent distributor with Flowers Foods, including initial steps, financing options, business plan development, and the support provided by Flowers. 

Chad offers invaluable advice for both new and existing distributors looking to expand. Gain exclusive insights into the logistics industry and discover the opportunities available with powerhouse brands like Nature's Own, Dave's Killer Bread, and TastyKake.

This week on Industry Insights with Route Consultant, we sit down with Alex Frum, owner of Alpha Kilo Logistics. Alex shares his approach to recruitment and employee retention through effective benefits and compensation packages. From 401k programs and healthcare to safety incentives and unique perks like personalized swag and holiday steaks, Alex reveals how these strategies have resulted in lower turnover and a loyal workforce. Tune in to learn more about creating a supportive and attractive work environment in the logistics industry.

Join us in this episode of Industry Insights with Route Consultant as we discuss the complexities of the logistics industry with industry veterans Dave and Amy Byers of Slicker Trucking. This episode covers the challenges faced by entrepreneurs in the logistics sector, the importance of maintaining a positive mindset, and the impact of emerging trends. Dave and Amy share their strategies for success, the realities of dealing with difficult customers, and how to foster a supportive community among contractors. This conversation highlights the importance of adaptability, community engagement, and positivity in navigating the logistics landscape.

Welcome to Industry Insights with Route Consultant! This week, we explore one of the biggest expenses in the logistics industry: fuel. Annalee Cate, CEO of the RCPA Fuel Card, joins us to discuss effective fuel management strategies, common challenges, and how the RCPA Fuel Card can help save money and improve efficiency. Annalee offers valuable insights into the importance of security controls, behavioral changes, and the benefits of a comprehensive fuel strategy. Tune in to learn how you can optimize your fuel expenses and protect your business from fraud and inefficiencies.

Join us on Industry Insights with Route Consultant as we speak with Chad Johnson, VP of Franchise Services at Flowers Foods. Discover how Flowers Foods maintains relevance in a changing market by focusing on consumer health trends, expanding into new territories, and leveraging technology like AI for operational efficiency. Learn about the potential for independent distributors to grow their businesses, from managing single territories to operating multiple routes, and the support systems in place to help them succeed. This episode provides valuable insights into the strategic planning and innovation that keep Flowers Foods at the forefront of the bread industry.

This week, we sit down with Kevin Brunner, founder and owner of Q Companies, to explore essential financial strategies for business mergers, acquisitions, and tax planning. Kevin shares his journey from mowing lawns and trading penny stocks to becoming a financial advisor with a proven track record. Learn about the importance of early exit planning, proven financial strategies, and how Q Companies helps business owners achieve tax-efficient exits. Join us for insightful discussions on maximizing your business value and planning for a secure financial future.

This week on Industry Insights with Route Consultant we’re unpacking the rollout of Picture Proof of Delivery (PPOD) in the FedEx space with Dave + Amy Byers — exploring its origins, key metrics, and operational challenges. Learn how PPOD is reshaping delivery standards across the industry, and gain practical strategies for maintaining efficiency and exceptional customer service as this new process takes hold.

This week on Industry Insights with Route Consultant, we're exploring essential truck maintenance strategies with Alex Frum, owner of Alpha Kilo Logistics. Alex shares invaluable tips on preventative maintenance, building strong relationships with dealers, and managing breakdowns efficiently. Whether you're using OEM schedules, third-party software for tracking, or full-service leases, Alex's insights on maintaining a smooth trucking operation are a must-watch for anyone in logistics.

In this episode of Industry Insights with Route Consultant, join Amy and Dave Byers of Slicker Trucking as they delve into the critical topic of accountability within the logistics industry. They discuss the importance of defining and communicating accountability, the distinction between job responsibilities and end results, and the cultural shifts that influence driver performance. Learn about their practical strategies for maintaining high standards, ensuring safety, and fostering a team-oriented environment. Perfect for anyone looking to enhance their logistics operations and build stronger, more accountable teams.

Join us in this episode of Industry Insights as we delve into the complexities of recruiting within the logistics and transportation sector with Alex Frum, owner of Alpha Kilo Logistics. Alex shares his insights on the importance of effective recruiting strategies in the linehaul space, the decision between outsourcing and internal recruitment, and the nuances of managing teams in diverse markets.

He also discusses the role of First Advantage in the background check process and offers valuable advice for both new and experienced contractors. Tune in to gain valuable knowledge on building a resilient recruitment process and maintaining a strong workforce in the fast-paced logistics industry.

Welcome to Industry Insights with Route Consultant! This week, we sit down with Chad Johnson, Vice President of Franchise Services at Flowers Foods, to explore the current trends and challenges in the bread industry. Chad discusses the importance of regional market information for independent distributors, the value of brand equity, and the advantages of the Flowers independent distributor model.

We delve into why investing in this model is a smart and stable choice, the diverse brands under Flowers Foods, and what it takes to be successful as an independent distributor. From practical tips for managing your business to understanding market dynamics, this episode is packed with valuable information for anyone interested in the logistics and bread industry.