Episode 76: The Elephant in the Room: Respecting Truck Drivers and Taking Control of the Road

In this episode of the Keep Trucking Personal podcast, host Tyler Kivi of Kivi Bros. Trucking takes on the elephant in the room - the way truck drivers are treated both inside and outside the industry. He shares a powerful personal story about being denied access to a restroom at a shipper and reflects on what it reveals about the daily sacrifices drivers face: long hours, time away from family, poor health outcomes, and far too little respect.

But this conversation doesn’t stop at calling out the problem; it focuses on the solutions drivers can control. From building healthier habits on the road to dressing for professionalism, mentoring fellow drivers, and giving back to the industry, Tyler reminds us that respect isn’t handed out - it’s earned, lived, and built mile after mile.

This episode also explores the harsh realities of truck driver health and lifespan statistics while offering practical ways to take back control: eating better, focusing sharper, carrying yourself with professionalism, and investing in others. Tyler highlights the paradox of the road - that when you give, you also grow - and calls on both drivers and office staff to rebuild respect inside the industry.

Also referenced in this episode is Episode 73, where Tyler discusses Project 61 and the importance of truck driver health. You can listen to that episode here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...