Driving Success: A Fleet Advantage Podcast

Driving Success: A Fleet Advantage Podcast

di Fleet Advantage
EP. 16: Heavy-Duty Truck Fleets Use of AI: 2026 Industry Survey Results
In this episode of Driving Success, Tracy Derival sits down with Mac Hudson, CTP, Senior Off-Lease Manager at Fleet Advantage, live from the 2026 NPTC Annual Conference, to discuss the latest “Use of AI in Fleets” survey findings. The conversation explores the rapid rise of generative AI adoption across private fleets, the growing data integration challenges limiting deeper operational returns, and the major untapped opportunities AI presents for organizations with transportation fleets. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction 00:46 Mac Hudson’s Background & Role 01:27 Why Generative AI Adoption Has Surged 02:40 Challenges with AI 04:20 Untapped Opportunities for AI in Fleet Operations 05:39 Closing 🤝 Connect with us on LinkedIn! Mac Hudson ➡ https://www.linkedin.com/in/mac-hudson-ab690b61/ Tracy Derival ➡https://www.linkedin.com/in/tracy-derival-451a55126/ See the full survey results here! ➡ https://www.fleetadvantage.com/press-releases/fleet-advantage-survey-finds-generative-ai-has-taken-hold-in-private-fleets-but-data-gaps-are-blocking-deeper-returns Visit our website! ➡ https://www.fleetadvantage.com/
EP. 15: The Pre Buy Is Back: Why Fleets Cannot Afford to Wait on EPA 2027
In this episodeof Driving Success, Tracy Derival and Brian Antonellis, SVP of Fleet Operations at Fleet Advantage, discuss the confirmed EPA 2027 NOx regulations and why the truck pre-buy is officially back. With the EPA holding firm on the 35 mg standard, fleets face shrinking 2026 build availability, rising OEM costs, and increased allocation risk. Brian explains the financial implications, why private fleets are moving early, and the critical steps organizations must take now to control costs and secure equipment ahead of 2027. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction 01:52 The Pre-Buy Coming Back 02:33 Underestimating Build Slots and Pricing 03:30 Financial Implications 04:15 Private Fleets Acting Now 05:55 Important Actions for Fleets to Make 🤝 Connect with us on LinkedIn! Brian Antonellis ➡ https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-a-35713420/ Tracy Derival ➡https://www.linkedin.com/in/tracy-derival-451a55126/ Visit our website! ➡ https://www.fleetadvantage.com/
EP 14: OffLease Reimagined: Modernizing the Lease Surrender Process
In this episode, Tracy Derival sits down with Matt de Aguiar, Chief Operating Officer; Brian Antonellis, SVP, Fleet Operations; and Jackie Dusseau, VP, Data Analytics & Corporate Development, to discuss the launch of OffLease Reimagined, Fleet Advantage’s innovative platform for modernizing truck lease surrenders. The team explores how the software streamlines workflows, leverages real-time data and automation, and delivers measurable savings and operational efficiencies. Tune in to hear how OffLease Reimagined is driving transformation in fleet management and equipment finance, and learn about the award-winning solutions helping fleets save time, reduce costs, and gain transparency across the lease lifecycle. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Fleet Advantage Team 02:14 Introduction to OffLease ReImagined 03:37 Collaboration in Launching OffLease Reimagined 04:48 Operational Gaps in the Lease Surrender Process 05:54 Understanding Customer Needs and Data Integration 07:20 Leveraging Data for Actionable Insights 09:02 Success and Industry Impacts 12:11 Future of OffLease Reimagined 🤝 Connect with us on LinkedIn! Matt de Aguiar ➡ https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthewdeaguiar/ Brian Antonellis ➡ https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-a-35713420/ Jackie Dusseau ➡ https://www.linkedin.com/in/jackie-dusseau-clfp-88667059/ Tracy Derival ➡ https://www.linkedin.com/in/tracy-derival-451a55126/ Visit our website! ➡ https://www.fleetadvantage.com/
EP 13: CVSA's Brake Safety Week 2025
In this episode, Tracy Derival and Matt Wiedmeyer, CTP, Director of Fleet Operations & Maintenance, discuss CVSA’s Brake Safety Week 2025 with a special focus on drums and rotors. They explore why brake-related violations continue to top the charts for out-of-service orders and what fleets can do to better prepare. This episode delivers timely insights that help drivers and fleet operators stay compliant, avoid costly violations, and prioritize safety on the road. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction and Background 01:42 Brake Safety Week Refresh and Goals 02:24 Common Brake Related Violations 02:56 Tips for Drivers' Pre and Post-Trip Inspections 04:37 CVSA’s 2024 Unannounced Safety Inspection 06:11 New Statistics for Brake Safety Week 08:49 Conclusion of Summer of Safety Series 🤝 Connect with us on LinkedIn! Matt Wiedmeyer ➡ https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthewwiedmeyerctp/ Tracy Derival ➡ https://www.linkedin.com/in/tracy-derival-451a55126/ Visit our website! ➡ https://www.fleetadvantage.com/
EP. 12: CVSA’s Operation Safe Driver Week 2025
In this episode, Tracy Derival and Nathan Rhoads, CTP, Director of Fleet Services at Fleet Advantage, break down CVSA’s Operation Safe Driver Week 2025. They discuss current enforcement priorities, the importance of proactive driver behavior, and how the latest TRUST Index data reveals areas for improvement. Whether you're managing a fleet or out on the road, this episode delivers practical insights to help keep everyone safer. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Nathan Rhoads & Operation Safe Driver Week 02:40 Key Statistics from Last Year's Campaign 03:35 Focus Areas for This Year's Campaign 04:56 Educating Drivers for Long-Term Safety 06:44 New Insights for This Year 07:43 Conclusion 🤝 Connect with us on LinkedIn! Nathan Rhoads ➡ https://www.linkedin.com/in/nathan-rhoads-232915134/ Tracy Derival ➡https://www.linkedin.com/in/tracy-derival-451a55126/ Visit our website! ➡ https://www.fleetadvantage.com/
EP. 11: National Tire Safety Week 2025
In this episode, Tracy Derival and Wesley Hall, CTP, Director of Fleet Operations & Off Lease at Fleet Advantage, return for the second annual Summer of Safety series to explore the continued importance of National Tire Safety Week. Together, they highlight how the right tire selection, consistent air pressure management, and proper inspection tools can significantly impact fleet safety, performance, and cost efficiency. With updated insights for 2025, this episode offers practical guidance to help fleets reduce downtime, avoid road failures, and protect their drivers. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction & Background on Wes Hall 01:38 Refresher on National Tire Safety Week 02:12 Understanding Tire Categories and Their Impact 03:10 The Importance of Tire Pressure Management 04:44 Essential Tools for Tire Inspections 06:17 Current Trends and Statistics in Tire Safety 🤝 Connect with us on LinkedIn! Wes Hall ➡ https://www.linkedin.com/in/wesley-hall-ctp-323367a/ Tracy Derival ➡https://www.linkedin.com/in/tracy-derival-451a55126/ Visit our website! ➡ https://www.fleetadvantage.com/
EP. 10: Tariffs & Truck Procurement for Large Fleets What You Need to Know
In this episode, Tracy Derival and Brian Antonellis, CTP, SVP of Fleet Operations, discuss the looming impact of newly imposed tariffs, which began on April 2, 2025. With these tariffs initially affecting automakers and potentially extending to heavy-duty trucks, the conversation emphasizes the urgency for organizations with transportation fleets to reassess their procurement strategies and take swift action to mitigate cost increases. Brian shares valuable insights into the timelines for tariff-driven cost increases from equipment manufacturers, along with strategies for effectively navigating these changes. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction 01:45 Current Status of the Tariffs 02:06 What Is the Impact for Fleets & Time Frames 03:10 Strategizing for the Future 04:06 Final Thoughts and Actionable Insights 🤝 Connect with us on LinkedIn! Brian Antonellis ➡ https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-a-35713420/ Tracy Derival ➡https://www.linkedin.com/in/tracy-derival-451a55126/ Visit our website! ➡ https://www.fleetadvantage.com/
EP. 9: Navigating Regulatory Shifts
In this episode, Tracy Derival and Brian Antonellis, CTP, SVP of Fleet Operations, discuss the recent shakeup in the transportation industry as CARB rescinds its waiver request for the Advanced Clean Fleet (ACF) regulation. They break down the implications of this shift and what it means for companies with transportation fleets. Tune in as they explore strategies for adapting to regulatory changes, the importance of a five-year plan, and how fleet managers can balance sustainability goals with immediate cost pressures. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction 01:38 What Happened with the CARB Mandate? 03:11 Current Status and Implications for Fleets 04:27 Strategizing for the Future 05:35 Balancing Sustainability and Cost 07:05 Final Thoughts and Actionable Insights 🤝 Connect with us on LinkedIn! Brian Antonellis ➡ https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-a-35713420/ Tracy Derival ➡https://www.linkedin.com/in/tracy-derival-451a55126/ Visit our website! ➡ https://www.fleetadvantage.com/
EP 8: Beyond the Unbundled Lease: Optimizing Fleet Maintenance with Cox Automotive
In Part 2 of our Full-Service Lease vs. Unbundled Lease series, Tracy Derival is joined by Paul Gildenhorn (Sr. Director, National Sales), Brian Welke (Sr. National Account Executive), and Jeff Werstak (Director, Business Development) from FleetNet America by Cox Automotive. They discuss the maintenance options available when unbundling a lease and share expert insights on optimizing fleet maintenance with the flexibility and benefits of a nationwide maintenance network. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to FleetNet America and Its Team 02:02 Key Components of FleetNet America's Maintenance Solutions 04:23 Benefits of Fleet Maintenance In An Unbundled Lease 06:36 Nationwide Network of Service Providers 09:48 Addressing Rising Costs in Fleet Maintenance 12:36 Real-World Benefits of FleetNet America's Solutions 16:43 Future Trends in Fleet Maintenance 🤝 Connect with us on LinkedIn! Paul Gildenhorn ➡ https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-g-6266026/ Brian Welke ➡ https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-welke-0b031a20/ Jeff Werstak ➡ https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeff-werstak-1b7bb78/ Tracy Derival ➡https://www.linkedin.com/in/tracy-derival-451a55126/ Visit our website! ➡ https://www.fleetadvantage.com/
EP 7: IAA 2024 Transportation Show
In this episode, Tracy Derival and Brian Antonellis, CTP, SVP of Fleet Operations, discuss the upcoming IAA 2024 Transportation Show. They highlight the significance of participating in the event, discuss the sessions Brian is most excited about, and cover timely topics like EV charging infrastructure and sustainable transport. They also touch on Europe’s lead in heavy-duty truck transportation and logistics and tease an exciting new offering from Fleet Advantage that will be unveiled at IAA. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction and Brian's Background 01:54 What Is IAA & Why Is It Important 02:41 IAA Transportation Sessions Shows Interest In Alternative Fuels 03:46 Importance of Discussing Alternative Fuels Now 05:20 Europe vs US: The Race in Heavy-Duty Truck Transportation 07:07 Exciting Offering Unveiled at IAA: Making the Transition Easier 08:02 Stay Tuned for Live Updates During IAA 🤝 Connect with us on LinkedIn! Brian Antonellis ➡ https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-a-35713420/ Tracy Derival ➡ https://www.linkedin.com/in/tracy-derival-451a55126/ Visit our website! ➡ https://www.fleetadvantage.com/
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