Category Archives: Uncategorized

Welcome to Author’s Corner, a place where I step outside the structured handbook and talk straight from the heart. After finishing the Trucking Advisory Handbook, I realized there are always going to be more questions, new challenges, and stories worth sharing. This section is where I’ll: Add personal reflections and commentary Answer reader and groupContinue reading “✍️ Author’s Corner — Comments & Q&A”

Every driver will face the day when the keys get handed in. For me, it was June 19th. The road doesn’t last forever, but what you plan now determines what life looks like after trucking. — Q1: How should drivers plan financially? Save early, even if it’s just a little. Retirement accounts, investments, and smartContinue reading “Series 21: Life After Trucking — Planning for the Last Mile”

Trucking takes more from your body than most people will ever understand. The long hours, bad food, and constant sitting are a recipe for health problems if you don’t fight back. — Q1: How can truckers eat healthy on the road? Avoid the fried truck stop trap. Simple habits — grilled over fried, water overContinue reading “Series 20: Health on the Road — Taking Care of Body and Mind”

Trucking has changed. Technology isn’t just gadgets — it’s survival. But it can either be your best friend or your biggest headache. — Q1: What tech tools are essential today? GPS systems designed for trucks, load board apps, and fuel planning apps are the backbone of modern trucking. A good GPS saves time, a badContinue reading “Series 19: Technology in Trucking — Tools That Make (or Break) Your Day”

Regulations and inspections matter, but safety is a habit. After 47 years, I can tell you the most dangerous thing on the road isn’t the weather or the truck — it’s complacency. — Q1: What’s the #1 safety habit for truckers? Always assume the other driver doesn’t see you. Defensive driving is your lifeline. Space,Continue reading “Series 18: Safety on the Road — The Habits That Keep You Alive”

Fuel isn’t just an expense — it’s the expense. For most truckers, it makes up 30–40% of operating costs. A smart driver learns quickly that every decision on the road affects the bottom line. — Q1: What’s the smartest way to save on fuel? Fuel card programs and apps can save real money. Plan stopsContinue reading “Series 17: Fuel Management — Saving Every Mile and Every Dollar”

No matter how experienced you are, every truck driver will deal with law enforcement on the road. From weigh stations to roadside inspections to random stops, how you handle these situations can make all the difference. Respect, preparation, and professionalism go a long way. — 1. What should you do when pulled over in yourContinue reading “Series 16: Dealing With Law Enforcement as a Professional Driver”

After nearly half a century behind the wheel, I can tell you this: trucking is more than an occupation. It’s a way of life that demands sacrifice, discipline, and grit — but it also gives back in experiences, friendships, and lessons that can’t be learned any other way. I’ve covered just about every topic thatContinue reading “Final Entry: Wrapping Up 47 Years of Lessons”

Straight Talk from 47 Years Behind the Wheel by Gerald Lee Jones About This Blog Book This series isn’t theory — it’s real answers from a lifetime on the road.Whether you’re a new driver, an independent contractor, or just curious about trucking life, you’ll find honest insights into: Getting started in trucking Managing money andContinue reading “My Experiences of Being a Professional Truck Driver”

My Experiences of Being a Professional Truck Driver as a Business Owner and Independent Contractor: “This is everything I wish I’d known before I started; what I’ve learned on the road; mistakes, wins, and tools to help you succeed.” Quick Reference Guide Getting Started & Core Business(Series 1 − 3) Regulations & Safety(Series 6, 7,Continue reading “Table of Contents”