This week on the Oakley Podcast, owner-operator Mike Roberts joins Jeremy Kellett to share how he found his way into trucking, built a career at Oakley, and earned one million safe miles. He reflects on the challenges of truck ownership and offers practical advice: budget for maintenance and downtime, find dependable mechanics, lean on family support, and stay patient and alert on the road. Mike also discusses the freedom of trucking, the value of professionalism, and the importance of strong communication with dispatchers and customers.
Key topics in today’s conversation include:
- Welcome to Today’s Show and New Sponsor Announcement (0:37)
- Mike Roberts’ Background and Family (4:58)
- How Mike Got Started in Trucking (6:27)
- Leaving Food Service to Become an Owner-Operator (8:01)
- Lessons From Early Truck Breakdowns (10:06)
- Mentorship and Generational Changes in Trucking (11:50)
- Financial Advice for Owner-Operators (13:14)
- Earning One Million Safe Miles (16:53)
- Road Safety, Cameras, and Distracted Drivers (19:11)
- What Mike Is Most Proud of in His Career (24:17)
- Staying Patient When Delays Happen (25:44)
- Building Good Relationships With Dispatchers (28:11)
- Mike’s Hobbies, Family, and Future Plans (31:57)
- The Freedom and Rewards of Trucking (35:03)
Oakley Trucking is a family-owned and operated trucking company headquartered in North Little Rock, Arkansas. For more information, check out our show website: podcast.bruceoakley.com.