Making Time Fly: On the Road

For some drivers, the hardest part of the job can be the boredom that's felt while driving those long distances. However, with today's technological advances, this problem has been decreased. Now, the challenge is picking out what to listen to that helps you stay engaged and safe. Well, here is a list of what could be your next go-to form of entertainment while on the road.

Podcasts

Listen to a podcast or start your own. Podcasts are normally updated every week, so there is constantly fresh content. There are podcasts about everything from crime to lifestyle. You’ll be sure to find a podcast that suits you.  

For industry-related podcasts, try The Trucking Podcast. The Trucking Podcast focuses on industry-related commentary and is hilarious. Buck and his son Don are both truckers and highlight trucking culture and random news, as well as their own experiences. They are very clear about the fact that their main goal is to entertain. Be aware of the political undertones.

Another podcast to try is Julia’s Trucking Cafe. Your host Julia has been driving trucks for 30 years and focuses on being a resource for new drivers. Julia’s Trucking Cafe shares tips, statistics and news.  

America’s Truckin’ Network with Steve Sommers talks about current events from all over the world, as well as trucking-related news and weather updates. Steve is very formal with his delivery and often brings on guests to share their opinions.

Audiobooks

As with podcasts, there is no shortage of audio content for whatever genre you’re into. If you need some recommendations, try:

• “The Long Haul: A Trucker’s Tales of Life on the Road” by Finn Murphy is an autobiography that shares the author’s honest account about his start in the trucking industry.
• “18 Wheels of Horror” by Eric Miller is not scary at all, but so cheesy that it’s comical.
• “Big Rigs, Posh Digs, Fast Cars, Dark Bars” by Charles H. Hood, who discusses the story of former CEO of Arrow Trucking, Doug Pielsticker.

Playlists

Take some time to craft a 20-hour playlist, and if that’s not up your alley, here are some that have already been made:

• Do a decade day! Music streaming services like Pandora, XM Radio and Spotify offer plenty of stations that feature the best of each decade.

• Try a new genre. Maybe you’re strictly a rock fan, but try to convert to hip-hop. You could end up turning your cab into your very own karaoke bar!

• Soundtrack radio stations can feature some solid tunes from your favorite flicks.  

• Enjoy some good feelings by listening to love songs.

• Find a station that features songs about food, states, cities, seasons or even trucking!