Join us for an insightful episode of The Miles and Mentors Podcast as we sit down with Chris Polk, Fleet Manager at Blue Ribbon Logistical Solutions. Chris shares his extensive journey through the trucking industry, from his humble beginnings to his current role, where he manages a fleet and an innovative 18-month master class program for aspiring owner-operators. With over two decades of experience, Chris offers invaluable advice on running a successful trucking business, the importance of mentorship, and the future of the industry.

01:10 - Podcast Overview

03:21 - Meet Chris Polk of Blue Ribbon Logistical Solutions

05:10 - Chris's Background and Journey in the Trucking Industry

11:10 - Initial Challenges and Overcoming Failures

15:11 - The Turning Point and Reflecting on Past Mistakes

19:30 - The Manifesto and New Beginnings

24:30 - Joining Blue Ribbon Logistical Solutions

29:20 - The 18-Month Master Class Program

34:00 - Challenges and Realities of Being an Owner-Operator

38:15 - Understanding the Business Side of Trucking

42:00 - The Importance of Business Education in Trucking

46:20 - Chris’s Early Days in Trucking

50:45 - The Need for Comprehensive Training Programs

55:05 - Teaching Basic Skills: Reading Maps and Math

58:50 - The Disconnect in Basic Skills

01:02:30 - Challenges of Modern Trucking

01:07:00 - The Need for Practical Skills and Knowledge

01:11:45 - Success Rate of the Master Class Program

01:16:20 - The Reality of Self-Employment

01:21:00 - The Hard Work Behind Business Success

01:25:50 - The Unique Challenges of Running a Trucking Business

01:30:20 - The Importance of Mentorship

01:35:15 - Customer First Mentality in Business

01:40:30 - The Role of Experience and Mentorship

01:45:15 - Learning from Experienced Mentors

01:50:45 - Key Advice for New Entrants in the Trucking Industry

01:54:20 - Steps for Starting a Successful Trucking Career

01:58:05 - The Importance of Staying with Your First Job for One Year

02:02:15 - Building Relationships and Learning the System

02:05:45 - The Future of Trucking: Blockchain Technology

02:10:00 - Understanding Blockchain and Its Impact on Trucking

02:12:00 - Embracing Opportunities and Turning Off Distractions

02:14:15 - Running a Successful Trucking Business Without Your Own Numbers

02:18:00 - When to Consider Getting Your Own Authority

02:21:45 - Debunking the Myth of Older Trucks for Avoiding ELDs

02:25:00 - The Practicality of Running Older Trucks

02:29:00 - The Misconceptions About ELDs and Trip Planning

02:32:00 - Chris's Advice for New Entrants and Plugging Blue Ribbon Logistical Solutions

For more about Chris Polk and Blue Ribbon Logistical Solutions:

• Website: https://www.blueribbonlogistics.com/

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/blueribbonlogistics

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-polk-046817116/

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