About this episode

This episode discusses key trucking trends from MATS 2026, focusing on AI, fuel costs, and operational strategies.

At MATS, the real conversations are happening across the floor, in the shop, and between industry leaders comparing what’s actually working. In this episode of the Driving Forward Podcast, Nate Johnson and Robert Bain kick things off with a recap of key takeaways from MATS before diving into a series of panel conversations with leaders across trucking and logistics. From fuel efficiency strategies and rising cost pressures to the role of AI and connected technologies in daily operations, this episode brings together real-world perspectives on what fleets are prioritizing right now. It’s not about chasing every new tool, it’s about making smarter decisions with the ones that directly impact performance, cost, and long-term sustainability. If you’re leading a fleet or navigating operations in today’s market, this conversation offers practical perspective on managing fuel costs, evaluating technology, and making smarter decisions in a rapidly changing industry.Panel Speakers:Todd Waldren of Truckstop.comAdam Wingfield of Innovative Logistics Group, LLCNate Johnson of GLCSAlex Mai of Mutha Trucker NewsPatricia Waquespack of Multi Service Fuel CardJamie Hagen of Hell Bent XpressPam…

People in this episode

Hosts: Nate Johnson, Robert Bain

Guests: Todd Waldren, Adam Wingfield, Alex Mai, Patricia Waquespack, Jamie Hagen, Pam Polyak

Topics covered

• trucking trends
• fuel efficiency
• AI in logistics
• cost management
• industry insights

Keywords

• trucking
• MATS 2026
• AI
• fuel costs
• logistics
• industry leaders
• cost management
• technology

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Truckstop.com, Innovative Logistics Group, LLC, Mutha Trucker News, Multi Service Fuel Card, Hell Bent Xpress, Polyak Trucking, Logistics & Consulting

More episodes of Driving Forward Podcast

• Fuel, Parking & Pressure: What's Actually Happening to Drivers Right Now · April 24, 2026 · 1h 6m
• Built to Last: Pressure-Tested Lessons from over 25 Years in Trucking · April 17, 2026 · 1h 3m
• Fleet Leaders: What 46 Years in the Industry Reveals · April 13, 2026 · 1h 2m
• The Future of Fleet Maintenance: AI, Visibility & Real Ops (TMC 2026) · March 25, 2026 · 1h 6m
• The Future of Freight Tech: EDI, Fuel Costs & Supply Chain Visibility · March 13, 2026 · 1h 4m
• Inside TCA 2026: The Next Era of Trucking · March 13, 2026 · 1h 20m

Explore listener stats, chart rankings, contacts and more on the Driving Forward Podcast podcast page.