Summary

In this episode of the Power Play Podcast, host Melissa is joined by Alec Costerus, founder of Alpha Drivers Transportation, and Walker Kaping, sales professional and winner of the Volvo Viking Video Challenge, to explore how driver experience and data-driven decision-making directly impact trucking profitability.

With over a million long-haul miles behind him, Alec shares firsthand insight into the truck features drivers truly value, how comfort and reliability influence load selection, and why fuel efficiency plays a critical role in cash flow. Walker adds perspective from the dealer and sales side, highlighting how equipment selection, training, and strong OEM relationships support uptime and long-term fleet success.

The conversation also dives into common data mistakes fleets make, the growing role of AI and automation, and why professional driver training is essential to operational efficiency. The episode concludes with insights into Volvo Trucksdesign philosophy and the importance of collaboration between manufacturers, dealers, and trucking companies.

Key Takeaways

Alec brings over one million long-haul miles of real-world driving experience
Driver comfort directly affects load acceptance, dispatching, and retention
Data analysis is essential to making profitable trucking decisions
Fuel consumption has a direct impact on cash flow and margins
The Volvo I-Shift transmission is highly valued by experienced drivers
Small operational changes can unlock major efficiency gains
Driver training should focus on professional skill development, not just basics
AI and data tools are reshaping fleet management and forecasting
Understanding driver needs leads to better truck design and specs
Strong OEM–dealer relationships improve uptime and operational success

Sound Bites

“Alec is a total data geek — and that’s a good thing.”
“Never be afraid to learn more.”
“Driver comfort isn’t optional — it’s operational.”

Chapters (Corrected & Polished)

00:00 Introduction to the Power Play Podcast

01:00 Meet the Experts: Alec Costerus & Walker Kaping

03:43 Driver Experience and Truck Features

07:08 Load Decisions and Truck Reliability

08:48 Design Decisions in Truck Cabs

15:40 The Role of Data in Trucking Profitability

18:30 Common Data Mistakes Fleets Make

23:16 Fleet Equipment and Product Insights

23:18 Exploring the Volvo Lineup

24:20 OEMs, Dealers, and the Disconnect in Trucking

27:02 Why Uptime Matters More Than Ever

30:25 The Birth of Alpha Drivers Transportation

31:56 Operational Tools for Smarter Fleet Management

33:21 Innovative Approaches to Driver Training

38:12 AI, Automation, and the Future of Trucking

41:37 Rapid Fire Questions and Final Thoughts

Features

Resources

Podcasts

The Power Play Podcast with Bob Nuss and Joel Morrow