BACK IT UP | 160: Sandbox Service Truck
In this week's episode, "160: Sandbox Service Truck"; Brian and Shipper are joined by David, a contracted driver in Iraq. David had heard Sam's stories from episode 2: (https://audioboom.com/posts/7519924-2-hauling-fuel-in-enemy-territory) Hauling Fuel In Enemy Territory (https://audioboom.com/posts/7519924-2-hauling-fuel-in-enemy-territory) , and wanted to share his similar stories. David had ...
1hr 52m Jul 19, 2024
1hr 52m
219: Surviving the Fire
In this episode, Brian and Brian kick off the show, by diving into an interview with Phil, a seasoned professional in international freight forwarding and power plant logistics. Phil recounts his diverse career, from operating heavy machinery and forklifts to fire suppression at a facility with 16 million metric tons of wood pellets. He also shares his unique experiences working in a florist sh...
1hr 25m Jul 17, 2024
1hr 25m
BACK IT UP | 104: "Swinging" Through On 18
In Episode 104: "Swinging" Through On 18; Brian and Tony have a great conversation with Alan. Driving is something that runs in his blood, since he has many family members who are also drivers. Alan started CDL school in his 30s and has been driving ever since. From being yelled at in his first interview to losing all his gears in the middle of a bridge and many more wild experiences, Alan has ...
1hr 42m Jul 12, 2024
1hr 42m
218: Crazy Encounters: Bikers, Avalanches, and No-Tel Motels
In this episode of Hammer Lane Legends, Brian Merkel and Brian Shipper dive into the thrilling world of Denise's driving adventures. Denise recounts her wild cross-country journey in a modified Volkswagen Super Beetle towing a Suzuki dirt bike, her escapades through the desert, and her brushes with the border wall. The conversation spans extreme weather driving, the trucking industry in Pennsyl...
1hr 18m Jul 10, 2024
1hr 18m
BACK IT UP | 131: VOICEMAIL SHOW!
In episode 131: VOICEMAIL SHOW!; the gang is in studio to go over all the voicemails that YOU, the listeners, have sent in! As always these shows are some of the most fun and entertaining that we do. We know that you'll enjoy this one, there were great stories shared, and a lot of laughter as well! So sit back, relax, and enjoy the show!! Support The Show KEEP US FUELED: http://buymeacoffee.co...
1hr 10m Jul 05, 2024
1hr 10m
217: Surviving The Open Road
In this week's episode, Brian and Shipper welcome back the ever-entertaining "Mr. Toot Toot," Mike Hawes. Mike dives into crucial topics like taking breaks and road safety, punctuated by his gripping tales of harrowing accidents and blown tires. They explore the strange and unique encounters on the road, the quirks of trucking across various states, and Mike's personal adventures in Alabama. Fr...
1hr 5m Jul 03, 2024
1hr 5m
216: Straight From The Pitt | Mike Drey | Part 3
In this week's episode, Mike Drey joins the guys to talk all things EV related, and much more! They dive into the perks of owning a Tesla, examining the cost of EVs and the hurdles in building EV infrastructure. They touch on renewable energy and hybrid reliability before discussing Tesla's autopilot feature and the future of EVs. Mike shares about his initial hesitance towards EVs and frustrat...
2hr 22m Jun 26, 2024
2hr 22m
BACK IT UP | 103: Delivering the Freshness
In Episode 103: Delivering the Freshness, the guys have a chat with Kirk, a linen delivery man and an ex-podcaster. If I told you that linen delivery was a crazy experience, would you believe me? Kirk shared with us countless stories to prove that not only is the linen delivery game wild, it's really messy too. Buckle up and enjoy the freshness! Support The Show KEEP US FUELED: http://buymeaco...
1hr 30m Jun 21, 2024
1hr 30m
215: The Heart Of Trucking
In this week's show, Brian and Shipper welcome back Olivia, Karen, and Cheryl for an engaging dive into their compelling stories of Olivia and Cheryl's father, Steve, a dedicated trucker since the 70s who persevered despite battling kidney disease. Karen opens up about her adventures driving alongside her husband and the hurdles of truck ownership. This episode captures the sacrifices, challen...
1hr 11m Jun 19, 2024
1hr 11m
BACK IT UP | 164: Father's Day Special!
In this week's show, Brian and Shipper are joined by Tony and Jack! For the first time in about a year, Tony joins the show and the guys were thrilled to have him. This episode went from on the rails, to off the rails, to losing the rails completely! However, it was such a good time regardless. They talk about Tony's time down in Tennessee thus far, as well as new industry updates, and AI's loo...
1hr 29m Jun 14, 2024
1hr 29m
214: High-Stakes Car Hauling
In this week's episode, Brian and Shipper sit down with veteran truck driver Will to delve into the world of car hauling. Will shares his journey through the industry, highlighting the transition between different types of freight, the intricacies of handling vehicle damages, and the challenges of loading and unloading cars. He offers a fascinating look at the skills required for the job and th...
1hr 18m Jun 12, 2024
1hr 18m
BACK IT UP | 120: The Third Dud
In Episode 120: The Third Dud, Shipper and Brian chat with Bob, whose career in driving spans decades and wars. Bob is a Vietnam War veteran, and in fact, that's how he learned to drive. When he entered the military, he was given the station of truck driver, and did he ever have some crazy experiences! The unbelievable things he's seen on the road are incredible to hear, so buckle up and get re...
1hr 6m Jun 07, 2024
1hr 6m
213: Load Up On Leadership
In this week's show, Brian and Shipper are joined by John Malva, Vice President of Operations for the supply chain division at Pitt Ohio, who shares insights into his role managing third-party logistics, truckload shipments, and dedicated drivers. John emphasizes the importance of drivers roles, strong leadership, and open communication at Pitt Ohio. He discusses the company's commitment to int...
1hr 25m Jun 05, 2024
1hr 25m
BACK IT UP | 76: One Wrong Move
In Episode 76: One Wrong Move, Tony and Brian are joined by another of Brian's friends from work, Randy! The guys talk about old school ways, and also what is going on with farm land. Randy spent time growing up on the farm and working with heavy equipment. He shares his thoughts on what's happening now, and what it was like "back in the day." Finally, Randy also shares a story that we couldn't...
1hr 43m May 31, 2024
1hr 43m
212: Twilight Trucking
In this week's episode, Brian and Shipper are joined by Nazhir. Nazhir shares his journey into the trucking industry. From thrilling road experiences and heart-stopping close calls to the impact of nighttime driving on family life, Nazhir shares it all. Discover the challenges of managing loads and navigating tough routes, along with personal anecdotes that bring the trucking world to life. Su...
1hr 12m May 29, 2024
1hr 12m
BACK IT UP | 61: Mother Truckers
In Episode 61: Mother Trucker, we are joined by the mothers in our lives. Michele, Tony's mom and Brian's wife, and Tony's wife Lindsay hang out with the guys as they listen to a long list of messages from our voicemail line. Thank you to all the mothers out there, and especially to the mothers that are the wives of truckers. Your sacrifices do not go unnoticed - Happy (Late) Mother's Day! Sup...
1hr 14m May 24, 2024
1hr 14m
211: Road Warriors
In this week's episode, Brian and Shipper are joined by Aaron. Aaron's journey into the trucking industry began during the COVID era, marked by the challenges of training and the critical support of a good trainer. He reflects on the waning camaraderie and professionalism among truck drivers and candidly discusses the strain his career choice put on his relationship with his mother, though he h...
1hr 27m May 22, 2024
1hr 27m
BACK IT UP | 121: Cruising Through a Sandstorm
In Episode 121: Cruising Through a Sandstorm, Brian and Shipper have a great time talking with Johnson and Jamie, husband-and-wife team drivers. In their time driving together they have had some unbelievable events happen to them. From tornadoes to sandstorms, to bombs exploding, they've been through so much together. Buckle up and get ready to cruise through a new episode! Support The Show KE...
1hr 35m May 17, 2024
1hr 35m
210: Hauling Numbers
In this week's episode, Brian and Brian are joined by Mikki a former truck driver turned accountant. Mikki shares harrowing near-misses and eerie encounters to the humbling challenges of life behind the wheel, each story unveils the raw and often humorous realities of the trucking lifestyle. She tells us about the adrenaline of dodging reckless drivers, the oddity of hitting an owl, and the gri...
1hr 26m May 15, 2024
1hr 26m
BACK IT UP | 110: Metaverse Drone Trucks
In Episode 110: Metaverse Drone Trucks, Tony and Brian are joined by Daryl, a fellow Pitt Ohio Truck driver. In typical fashion when we have a guest from Pitt Ohio, it gets interesting, and this show is no exception. The guys discuss a plethora of topics, and get besides themselves in laughter! This episode also marks Tony's last one as a mainstay host alongside Brian, as he embarks on a journe...
2hr 30m May 10, 2024
2hr 30m
209: School Bus Supermom
In this week's special Mother's Day episode, Brian and Patrick Swayze chat with Karen, a seasoned school bus maestro with a decade of steering stories under her belt. Diving into her unexpected love affair with the bus driver's seat, Karen recounts her adventurous shift from trucking to chauffeuring party-goers. Amidst hearty laughs over quirky mishaps, she sheds light on the roadblocks women f...
1hr 14m May 08, 2024
1hr 14m
BACK IT UP | 99: Straight From The Pitt | Jake
In Episode 99: Straight From The Pitt | Jake, Brian and Tony are joined in-studio by Jake, Tony's former co-worker. Jake talks all about his time working at Pitt-Ohio, including how he worked his way from a dock worker into being a licensed driver. Truck driving seems to run through his veins, as both Jake's dad and grandfather were truckers too. The guys also chatted about their thoughts on wh...
1hr 37m May 03, 2024
1hr 37m
208: Blizzards and Lot Lizards | Pt. 2
In this week's episode, Brian and Brian are joined by Kyle to finish up the multitude of stories he has. He recounts his epic drive across Canada and his family's historical ties to the Alcan Highway. They swap tales of Canadian bacon, Oregon coast road trips, and quirky trucking escapades, including navigating border bureaucracies and military bases. The trio also debate trucking regulations a...
57m May 01, 2024
57m
BACK IT UP | 32: I Almost Died
In Episode 32: I Almost Died, guest Ken, a driver for many years, joins the show to talk about his travels all over the United States. As would be the case with traveling across the country, he has seen some incredible, intense, and unimaginable sights. He recounts a time he was involved in a near-fatal accident, road oddities including an exploding meteor, and even his opportunity to purchase ...
1hr 25m Apr 26, 2024
1hr 25m
207: Blizzards and Lot Lizards Pt. 1
In this week's episode, the guys are joined by a returning guest Kyle, from episode 204: Giant Load Chaos (https://audioboom.com/posts/8482549-204-giant-load-chaos) , to share several stories from his trucking experiences. He talks about almost hitting a herd of caribou and the misunderstanding that led to his company thinking he had rolled over. He also discusses the challenges of driving in s...
1hr 6m Apr 24, 2024
1hr 6m
BACK IT UP | 140: Who Wants to Drive In Snow?!
In episode 140: Who Wants to Drive In Snow?!; Brian and Shipper are joined, in studio, by returning guest, Daryl from episode 110 (https://audioboom.com/posts/8070142-110-metaverse-drone-trucks) ! This show was BY FAR the longest episode we have ever recorded. So long, in fact, that we ended up splitting this show into two parts, that of which will air next week. This was a wild one with topics...
2hr 41m Apr 19, 2024
2hr 41m
206: Roadside Resilience
In this week's episode, Brian and Brian chat with Bobby Jo who shares her wild and intense experiences on the road. She vividly paints the life of a truck driver, highlighting not only the physical dangers of her job, such as narrowly avoiding accidents and dealing with hazardous situations but also the personal challenges she faces as a woman in a male-dominated industry. Bobby Jo’s journey fr...
1hr 9m Apr 17, 2024
1hr 9m
BACK IT UP | 102: The Revolution Will Not Be Televised
In Episode 102: The Revolution Will Not Be Televised, Brian and Tony discuss the Freedom Convoy, the current state of culture and society, and how it relates to the trucking industry. Buckle up and join the conversation. Support The Show KEEP US FUELED: http://buymeacoffee.com/hammerlane Gear: https://www.hammerlanelegends.com/gear Share Your Stories LEAVE A VOICEMAIL: 515-585-MERK(6375) EMAI...
1hr 25m Apr 12, 2024
1hr 25m
205: Furries In The Fast Lane
In this week's episode; Picture this: Alan, a seasoned Uber driver with a treasure trove of stories, from the outrageous to the downright bizarre. Imagine navigating through the streets, only to find yourself amidst the chaos of a furry convention, or inadvertently becoming a confidante to the intoxicated secrets of strangers. Alan's adventures span the gamut of human experience, from the hilar...
1hr 12m Apr 10, 2024
1hr 12m
BACK IT UP | 145: Iranian Border Travels
In episode 145: Iranian Border Travels; The guys (and Jack) chat with Seth, a US Army Reserves veteran, and truck driver, about his road to chimney sweep! In his early 20's Seth joined the Army Reserves after working in and around a Tyson plant for a couple years. During his time in service, he had several different jobs, landing in deployment as an 88M. This was where he gained his experience ...
1hr 43m Apr 05, 2024
1hr 43m
204: Giant Load Chaos
In this week's episode, Brian and Brian are joined by Kyle. Kyle shares his transition from a firefighter and welder to becoming a third-generation truck driver, driven by a family tradition of trucking. He recounts several extraordinary experiences on the road, including navigating through a blizzard with the assumption that, as a Canadian, he could handle the snow better than most, outmaneuve...
1hr 14m Apr 03, 2024
1hr 14m
BACK IT UP | 97: Killer Clown Invasion
In Episode 97: Killer Clown Invasion, Brian and Tony welcome back Dylin from Episode 84: A Trucker's Bigfoot Property (https://audioboom.com/posts/7962579-84-a-trucker-s-bigfoot-property) to chat about all the things we missed last time. Not only has Dylin been all over the continental United States, but he's taken his rig up into the Canadian Provinces. In all of his time spent driving, he has...
2hr 20m Mar 29, 2024
2hr 20m
203: Straight From The Pitt | Greg Szilli
In this week's episode, Brian and Brian are joined by their longtime colleague Greg Szilli. Greg, quickly dives into anecdotes and updates from his life. He then takes a more serious turn as Greg shares a deeply personal health struggle stemming from diabetes that led to the loss of his eye. Despite the gravity, the guys remain hopeful and spirited, highlighting Greg's resilience and positive o...
1hr 11m Mar 27, 2024
1hr 11m
BACK IT UP | 130: It's up WHERE?!
In episode 130: It's up WHERE?!; the guys chat with Mike a long time EMT in a major city. Needless to say, this means Mike has a LOT of stories to share. He shares his back story on how he got into the job, and also how he ended up in the area he's in. Mike had so many stories he shared, and still had more! We hope you enjoy this episode! Support The Show KEEP US FUELED: http://buymeacoffee.co...
1hr 48m Mar 22, 2024
1hr 48m
202: BREAKROOM | You Sound Short!
In this week's episode the guys sit down for an old fashioned breakroom show! Brian squared have a great conversation about everything. From logistics, to current events, and even a lesson on how to sound on the CB, this episode is a roller coaster. So sit back, relax, and enjoy the show! Support The Show KEEP US FUELED: http://buymeacoffee.com/hammerlane Gear: https://www.hammerlanelegends.co...
1hr 3m Mar 20, 2024
1hr 3m
BACK IT UP | 115: Charged at in the Dark
In Episode 115: Charged at in the Dark, Brian and Shipper are joined by Matt, a grizzled veteran of over 27 years! Matt seemingly had no choice but to join the trucking army, since his father and both grandfathers were also in the industry. From a "ghostly visit" to "something" charging him in the dark of night, Matt has many stories to share! Watch out, buckle up, and enjoy the show! Support ...
1hr 14m Mar 15, 2024
1hr 14m
201: (Brown) Gold Rush
In this week's episode we are joined by Ryan, a trucker who specializes in transporting septic and liquid waste. Through a blend of weather talk and geographic musings, Ryan unfolded the intricacies and adventures of his not-so-ordinary job. He shared tales that spanned from attending niche industry conventions to the gritty details of hauling everything from grease traps to animal blood. His r...
1hr 15m Mar 13, 2024
1hr 15m
BACK IT UP | 71: Tube Socks and Tangerines
In Episode 71: Tube Socks and Tangerines, Tony and Brian chat with Jason from the podcast Foster Care: An Unparalleled Journey. Jason shares his experience being a foster parent, how he manages his life with truck driving, and his exploits on TV. In his limited spare time, Jason learned how to blacksmith, which gave him the opportunity to be featured on The History Channel's hit show "Forged In...
1hr 21m Mar 08, 2024
1hr 21m
200: Office Lanes
This is our 200th EPISODE! Thank you for tuning in every week to catch the latest Hammer Lane Legend, sharing their story. Here's to 200 more! In this week's lively and entertaining episode, we sit down with Donna Lynn, the dynamic and multifaceted wife of Hector, a previous guest (https://audioboom.com/posts/8261946-151-the-midnight-thief) and truck driver. Donna Lynn shares her unique perspe...
1hr 41m Mar 07, 2024
1hr 41m
199: BREAKROOM | Uphill Both Ways
In this week's episode, the guys sit down for a Breakroom conversation. They listen to your voicemails that you've left over the past few months, which sparked some great conversation regarding safety guidelines. Along the way, Bigfoot even makes an appearance and takes the conversation on a hilarious trip. Moving on, they share their own experiences and chat about topics like generational chan...
1hr 23m Feb 28, 2024
1hr 23m
BACK IT UP | 119: Hauling Goose!
In Episode 119: Hauling Goose, Brian and Shipper have a great conversation with Will. From the time Will was just a youngster, driving has been in his blood. His dad got him into the game early in life, and Will even joined him on some of his deliveries, including a time he hauled a goose! Will has had plenty of his own experiences while driving as well, which led to some great stories, so buck...
1hr 39m Feb 23, 2024
1hr 39m
198: Snow Way Out But Through
In this week's episode, we are joined by Joe, a seasoned truck driver with a wealth of stories from his decades on the road. From harrowing blizzards to the unique camaraderie found within the trucking community, Joe shares insights into the life of a trucker, including the challenges and unexpected moments that define this profession. His journey through various facets of the trucking industry...
2hr 15m Feb 21, 2024
2hr 15m
BACK IT UP | 37: Our Dirtiest Show Ever
In Episode 37: Our Dirtiest Show Ever, Tony and Brian are joined by Dan the 'Sewage Man'! Dan works in sewage treatment and has had many experiences both at the sewage treatment plant and out on the road. He shares with us some of the dirtiest, filthiest stories we've ever heard (literally!) including a time he ended up covered in sewage. Buckle in, sit back, and don't mind the smell! Support ...
1hr 12m Feb 16, 2024
1hr 12m
197: Consider It Forwarded
In this week's episode, we are joined by the ALL POWERFUL Tony Merkel and Jack, our producer. The conversation starts with casual banter and some technical hiccups before diving into discussions about Merkel Media's potential new merchandising. The guys also chat about upcoming winter storms and their travel plans, sharing funny stories and inside jokes. They talk about creative cooking methods...
1hr 21m Feb 14, 2024
1hr 21m
BACK IT UP | 107: Straight From The Pitt | Garry Bechtold
In Episode 107: Straight From The Pitt | Garry Bechtold, the guys are joined in-studio by Garry and his wife, Lisa! It was a whirlwind of conversation, as the guys bounce around from topic to topic, ultimately landing on truck driving and their careers. They talk with Garry about his six years spent in the Navy as a storekeeper (cargo). Through his service he was able to see places all over the...
2hr 1m Feb 09, 2024
2hr 1m
196: Army To Arctic
In this week's episode, Adlai shares his extensive experience in the trucking industry, which spans over 38 years, including 32 years commercially and six years in the army. His journey began with driving a dump truck at Fort Bragg, followed by a reenlistment that took him to the cold climates of Alaska, where he faced brutal winters with temperatures dropping to 50 below zero. Adlai's career p...
1hr 21m Feb 07, 2024
1hr 21m
BACK IT UP | 74: Methematics
In Episode 74: Methematics, Tony and Brian have a rip-roaring conversation with the man known as Flatbed Johnny. As evidenced by his name, Johnny is a flatbed driver with his fair share of wild road encounters. If you're someone who enjoys great stories and hilarious banter, you're in luck, because this episode is bursting at the seams with it! So buckle up and - as Flatbed Johnny would say - "...
1hr 10m Feb 02, 2024
1hr 10m
195: Training Wheels
In this week's captivating episode, we sit down with seasoned trucker and trainer Devin, who shares his rich experiences from the road. Devin's stories offer a blend of humor, insight, and practical advice, covering everything from training new drivers to maintaining health and fitness in the trucking lifestyle. His discussions extend beyond driving, delving into personal growth and the unique ...
2hr 8m Jan 31, 2024
2hr 8m
BACK IT UP | 18: The Lot Leach
In Episode 18: The Lot Leach, we hear from Mike Gaffin, otherwise known as 'The Boston Trucker.' Mike shares with us his experiences growing up in the trucking industry, including riding along with his dad and even a "lot lizard" experience that lasted a bit too long! Support The Show KEEP US FUELED: http://buymeacoffee.com/hammerlane EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS FOOD: www.preparewithhll.com (http:...
1hr 6m Jan 26, 2024
1hr 6m
194: Farm Fields and Freeways
In this week's episode we are joined by Mike and Cole, a father-son duo in the trucking industry. They share their heartwarming and insightful journey. Mike reminisces about his childhood on a dairy farm, where his fascination with milk trucks sparked his long-lasting career in trucking. Cole, following in his father's footsteps, brings a fresh enthusiasm to the conversation, reflecting on his ...
1hr 44m Jan 24, 2024
1hr 44m