The OuterBelt's Podcast
We discuss all things and ramble on about news, to current events with a focus on the trucking industry and #hyfieldfamily.
Episodes
The long-awaited return of Ice Road Truckers after an eight-year absence has the crew buzzing with excitement. We dive deep into the fascinating world of trucks navigating frozen lakes in northern Canada and Alaska, where drivers must maintain painfully slow speeds to prevent creating pressure waves that could crack the ice beneath them. These brave souls transport everything from school buses to 100,000-pound pipes t...
The flip-flop myth stops here! In this eye-opening episode, we expose the truth behind viral social media claims that DOT officers are putting drivers out of service for wearing flip-flops. Spoiler alert: there's no such regulation in FMCSA code. We share our personal driving footwear preferences and debate what actually constitutes safe options behind the wheel.
We dig into Ohio's ambitious $150 mi...
After a summer-long hiatus, the Outer Belt crew reunites with stories that span continents, festivals, and enough butter to make your cardiologist nervous. Patrick, Chili, Eric, Zucchini Bread, and Jerry haven't missed a beat as they dive into tales from their months apart.
The European adventures take center stage as we hear about the whirlwind 36-hour Dublin experience before the group found themselves...
Weathering change is what trucking is all about, and The Outer Belt's season finale brings this theme front and center. The hosts gather to share critical information about the newly implemented DOT medical card process, which has gone completely digital – with unexpected consequences. As one host recounts his firsthand experience with the system, he reveals the troubling reality: even when medical examiners subm...
Ever wondered why trucking companies choose certain transmissions over others, or what happens when a specialized truck manufacturer goes out of business? In this captivating episode, we dive deep into the world of commercial truck operations with a fascinating behind-the-scenes look at custom truck maintenance challenges.
Patrick shares a compelling story about a unique problem facing their fleet: custom fai...
Take a ride with us as we reunite at The Outer Belt after some globe-trotting adventures that left hosts navigating a 13-hour time difference. This episode weaves together personal journeys with industry insights in our signature conversational style that feels like catching up with friends at a truck stop.
We kick things off with Melissa sharing her coffee shop explorations and Maryland visit, while Zucchini...
Two major regulatory changes are about to transform commercial trucking compliance this June, and drivers need to prepare now. In this information-packed episode, we break down the upcoming electronic medical certificate submission requirement taking effect June 23rd and the English proficiency out-of-service criteria implementation on June 25th.
The first change means certified medical examiners must electro...
After a brief hiatus, the Outer Belt podcast crew reunites with their trademark humor and industry insights. Beginning with helium-fueled antics and catching up on recent travels, the hosts dive into the significant changes reshaping the trucking landscape in 2024.
Jerry shares his fascinating two-week grand jury duty experience, offering a rare glimpse into the justice system from a trucker's perspectiv...
Walking the floor of the Mid-American Trucking Show feels like stepping into a world where massive machinery meets precise engineering and creative expression. This year's event didn't disappoint, with standout exhibits demonstrating why this gathering remains essential for anyone connected to the trucking industry.
The European Scania cab-over truck stole the spotlight with its remarkable fit and f...
Would you invest $12,000 in equipment that most competitors skip? We dive deep into why Hyfield Trucking equips nearly all our straight trucks with lift gates—a decision that goes against industry norms but creates strategic advantages at Panther and FedEx.
This equipment choice opens doors to specialized, higher-paying freight opportunities while earning additional pennies per mile that pay for the lift gate...
The trucking industry just experienced what the Trump administration calls "the greatest and most consequential day of deregulation in US history" with the rollback of EPA 2027 emissions standards. Patrick and the Outer Belt crew unpack this dramatic shift that has sent ripples through the entire transportation sector.
For years, trucking companies have been preparing for a massive buying frenzy in ...
When dust from New Mexico creates mud rain in Ohio, the Outer Belt crew finds themselves discussing one of nature's strangest phenomena. The hosts share their experiences with mud-coated vehicles and the resulting car wash chaos across the region, providing a fascinating look at how weather patterns thousands of miles away can impact daily life.
The conversation takes a serious turn as they examine a con...
What happens when a seemingly simple fabric store closure ripples through the trucking industry? This week on The Outer Belt, Patrick, Vince, Buttermilk, Eric, and Jerry dive into the unexpected domino effect of Joann's Fabrics going out of business. Their closure creates a surprising challenge for truck maintenance – where will companies source the specialized vinyls needed for seat repairs when online color mat...
Have you heard about New York City's bold attempt to tackle traffic congestion through congestion pricing? In this episode, we unpack the recent decision that has resulted in $49 million generated in just one month but has also brought about political controversy. With over 85% of toll revenue arising from passenger vehicles, the implications of this program stretch well beyond the financial aspect. We explore th...
Explore the tangled web of tariffs and border security in North America with our spirited team, including Patrick, Chili, Buttermilk, Eric, Zucchini Bread, and Jerry. Get the inside scoop on the 2025 tariffs and the diplomatic dances involving the U.S., Mexico, and Canada. Will the 30-day suspension of tariffs be enough to untangle cross-border tensions, or is it just a ticking clock towards more complexity? We break ...
Unlock the secrets of the trucking industry and discover how to protect yourself from the pitfalls of truck leasing. Our latest episode brings you a deep dive into the FMCSA's Truck Leasing Task Force report, revealing the harsh realities of exploitative lease-purchase programs. Hear from Melissa about her recruitment experiences and the struggles drivers face as they navigate these oppressive contracts. We quest...
What happens when a frosty morning turns your routine into a comedy of errors? Picture a frozen truck door, broken handles, and a slippery fall that covers one brave soul in hot beverages. Amidst laughter and chaos, discover how teamwork and perseverance turn a potential disaster into a memorable adventure, proving that a shared chuckle can make even the iciest of situations a bit warmer.
In a world where re...
What if you could navigate the complexities of California's evolving air regulations like a pro? Tune in to discover the intricate dance between the California Air Resource Board's ambitious goals and the real-world challenges of phasing out diesel trucks and locomotives. We'll break down CARB's latest move to pause its stringent regulations, analyze the impact on air quality improvements, and cons...
This episode discusses NYC's new congestion pricing, aiming to reduce traffic congestion in the city while raising funds for public transportation. The team explores its implications for businesses and residents, debating its fairness and long-term effects on urban commuting, especially for low-income populations.
• Overview of NYC's congestion pricing policy
• Impacts on small businesses and ...
Ever found yourself wrestling with a frozen truck lock, desperately wishing you had a magic solution? We’ve been there, and in this episode, we share our unorthodox yet effective tricks for surviving the bitter winter chill on the road. From the inefficiency of gloves against icy steering wheels to our wardrobe mishaps that make for a good laugh, we promise to keep your spirits warm with stories of camaraderie and inn...
Popular Podcasts
If you've ever wanted to know about champagne, satanism, the Stonewall Uprising, chaos theory, LSD, El Nino, true crime and Rosa Parks, then look no further. Josh and Chuck have you covered.
Current and classic episodes, featuring compelling true-crime mysteries, powerful documentaries and in-depth investigations. Follow now to get the latest episodes of Dateline NBC completely free, or subscribe to Dateline Premium for ad-free listening and exclusive bonus content: DatelinePremium.com
It’s 1996 in rural North Carolina, and an oddball crew makes history when they pull off America’s third largest cash heist. But it’s all downhill from there. Join host Johnny Knoxville as he unspools a wild and woolly tale about a group of regular ‘ol folks who risked it all for a chance at a better life. CrimeLess: Hillbilly Heist answers the question: what would you do with 17.3 million dollars? The answer includes diamond rings, mansions, velvet Elvis paintings, plus a run for the border, murder-for-hire-plots, and FBI busts.
The World's Most Dangerous Morning Show, The Breakfast Club, With DJ Envy, Jess Hilarious, And Charlamagne Tha God!
Does hearing about a true crime case always leave you scouring the internet for the truth behind the story? Dive into your next mystery with Crime Junkie. Every Monday, join your host Ashley Flowers as she unravels all the details of infamous and underreported true crime cases with her best friend Brit Prawat. From cold cases to missing persons and heroes in our community who seek justice, Crime Junkie is your destination for theories and stories you won’t hear anywhere else. Whether you're a seasoned true crime enthusiast or new to the genre, you'll find yourself on the edge of your seat awaiting a new episode every Monday. If you can never get enough true crime... Congratulations, you’ve found your people. Follow to join a community of Crime Junkies! Crime Junkie is presented by audiochuck Media Company.