Are we facing a critical shortage of truck drivers, or is something else happening on America's highways? Walter Gatlin dives deep into this persistent industry myth, presenting compelling evidence that what's often labeled a "driver shortage" is actually a turnover crisis. With 90% driver turnover rates since the 1990s, the real story isn't missing drivers—it's drivers constantly changing companies in search of better conditions.
The podcast examines what truly matters to today's truckers: declining freight rates that directly impact earnings, concerns about foreign drivers and safety standards, rising operational costs, and the looming question of autonomous technology. Walter challenges the American Trucking Association's claim of 60,000 missing drivers, noting that basic economic principles contradict this narrative—if drivers were truly scarce, wages and freight rates would rise substantially to attract them.
Walter makes a passionate call for rebuilding the trucker community through renewed CB radio use and direct driver-to-driver communication. "Let's not dog each other. Let's dog the rest of the world," he urges, reminding listeners that trucking remains the world's largest industry. He explains how driver dissatisfaction often stems from monotony rather than fundamental issues with the profession itself, with most company drivers changing employers every 2-2.5 years seeking new routes, challenges, and experiences.
Whether you're a veteran driver, new to the industry, or simply interested in understanding the real challenges facing America's highway heroes, this episode offers valuable perspective on finding happiness and sustainability in trucking. Email Walter at [email protected] to share your experiences or potentially be interviewed about what makes trucking work—or not work—for you.

Contact me today and let's connect for a podcast phone interview. [email protected]