The event will take place March 26 through 28 at the Kentucky Exposition Center in Louisville, where thousands of drivers, carriers, and industry professionals gather each year for one of trucking’s largest annual events.

A Night That Brings the Industry Together

The Silent Auction will be held during the MATS Opening Night Reception. The event brings together attendees, exhibitors, and industry leaders for an evening of networking, food, and entertainment as the show officially gets underway.

Auction items are donated by industry partners, and attendees can place bids throughout the reception. All proceeds from the auction go directly toward supporting SCF and its work assisting truck drivers and their families during times of illness or injury.

“Last year’s Silent Auction was an incredible example of what happens when our industry comes together for drivers in need,” said Courtney Niemann, executive director of SCF. “The generosity we saw — from donated items to competitive bidding — directly translated into meaningful support for truckers and their families. We’re excited to bring that same energy back to MATS this year.”

According to SCF, last year’s auction raised more than $13,500 for the nonprofit, with participation from donors, bidders, and volunteers across the trucking industry.

Why the Fund Matters to Drivers

For many professional drivers, especially owner-operators, time away from the road due to medical issues can quickly create financial strain. The St. Christopher Truckers Relief Fund provides short-term assistance for Class A over-the-road drivers who have been forced out of work because of illness or injury within the last 365 days.

The organization also offers health and wellness initiatives aimed at helping drivers prevent long-term health problems and stay on the road.

“Owner-operators and professional drivers are the backbone of our nation’s supply chain, but they often don’t have a safety net when unexpected health issues arise,” said Norita Taylor, SCF board president and director of public relations at OOIDA. “The Silent Auction at MATS is a powerful reminder that this industry stands behind its drivers. Every bid placed, and every item donated, helps ensure that professional drivers have somewhere to turn when illness or injury takes them off the road.”

Opening Night Reception Sponsor

This year’s Opening Night Reception is sponsored by Triumph, a company focused on modernizing and simplifying freight transactions through financial and technology services designed for the trucking industry.

A Major Gathering for the Trucking Industry

Now in its more than 50-year history, the Mid-America Trucking Show continues to be the largest annual gathering in trucking. Each year, the event draws thousands of drivers, fleet representatives, manufacturers, and service providers from across North America.

The Silent Auction remains one of the show’s community-focused events, giving the industry a way to support drivers facing difficult circumstances.

SCF encourages MATS exhibitors and industry partners to donate items for the auction and invites attendees to participate in bidding during the Opening Night Reception.

More information about the Silent Auction and how to donate items can be found here. Drivers or industry partners interested in supporting the organization can also contact Diane Hutsell, director of philanthropy, at diane@truckersfund.org.

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Why Mental Health Deserves Attention

Recent studies indicate that about 22% of American truck drivers have had a diagnosis of depression, and even more experience periods of stress or loneliness while working. Good mental health doesn’t just help you enjoy the work; it can sharpen reaction times and boost job performance.

Notice the Early Signs

Every driver is different, but a few common signs can point to mounting stress:

• Tension that sticks around, even off duty
• Not enjoying familiar interests or activities
• Feeling worn out after a full night’s sleep
• Having a hard time picking up speed in the morning
• Forgetfulness or trouble concentrating

Making note of these early on gives you time to act.

Steps to Improve Your Mental Well-Being

Keep Up With a Routine

Predictability helps. Try to stick to certain wake-up times, exercise, or paths of communication each day—even during busy weeks. Keeping to these small anchors can set a reliable rhythm.

Make Connections

Social connections matter. Maybe this is a regular call to family, checking in with other drivers at stops, or dropping in on an online group between runs. Sharing a quick story or catching up for a few minutes can remind you that you’re part of a bigger community.

Try Mindful Breaks

Pause for a few deep breaths at a rest area, or simply take a moment to check in with how you’re feeling. A breathing exercise or a short guided meditation (many audio apps offer free versions) can make a hectic day more manageable.

Get Good Sleep and Food

Rest fuels both mood and reaction times. Blocking out light in the cab, bringing a favorite pillow, or setting a habit of turning off electronics before sleep can improve rest. Healthy snacks picked up on the road—like nuts, fruit, or yogurt—help maintain steady energy.

Use Available Support

Many companies offer support lines, call-in counseling, or “check-in” apps designed for drivers. These resources are confidential and can make it easier to talk through what’s on your mind. Telehealth services are often available in most states and can be reached from a smartphone.

Personalize Your Cab for Comfort

A clean, personalized cab space helps you relax when work is done. Small items brought from home, like photos, comfortable bedding, or a favorite playlist, make the space your own and can improve your mood.

Know When to Reach Out

Using these simple steps is often enough, but sometimes it helps to bring in a professional. If stress feels overwhelming or lasts for more than a few weeks, reaching out to a counselor is an important move for your safety and well-being. Trucking alliances and mental health hotlines can be contacted anytime you need them.

The post Practical Mental Health Tips for Truck Drivers appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

These trucking podcasts go beyond trucking tips—they explore the deeper layers of what it means to live and work in this demanding profession.

Mental Health: Navigating the Emotional Road

Drive Podcast Series
Hosted by Zac and Chelsea, this podcast focuses on the mental health challenges faced by truck drivers. Episodes explore topics such as stress management, coping with isolation, and finding support on the road. A recent episode features Scott Busby from Praesum Healthcare discussing the importance of mental health awareness within the trucking industry and ways companies can better support their drivers.
Source: Apple Podcasts – Drive

The Mental Health and Wealth Show
While not trucking-specific, this podcast offers valuable insights into how mental health and financial well-being are connected. Recent episodes cover strategies for managing stress, building resilience, and navigating life’s changes with confidence—topics that resonate with many drivers balancing work and personal life.
Source: Apple Podcasts – Mental Health and Wealth Show

Family: Balancing Home and Highway

Miles & Sacrifice: Life Beyond Cargo
Focused on the personal cost of long-haul trucking, this podcast shares stories about missing family milestones, strained relationships, and how drivers try to stay connected to the people who matter most. It’s a raw and honest look at what life off the road really means.
Source: Apple Podcasts – Miles & Sacrifice

Women Who Travel Podcast: A Trucker’s Tale
This special episode features Desiree Wood, a longtime female trucker who talks candidly about working in a male-dominated industry, managing family from afar, and staying grounded despite long stints on the road.
Source: Condé Nast Traveler – Women Who Travel

Finance: Steering Toward Stability

The Ramsey Show
Though not tailored to truckers, Dave Ramsey’s show remains one of the most widely trusted resources for debt payoff strategies, budgeting tips, and financial planning. The call-in format means real people with real struggles—often including blue-collar workers—are front and center.
Source: Listen to or Watch The Ramsey Show – Ramsey

Trucking Business & Beyond
Hosted by Kevin Rutherford, a third-generation trucker and financial consultant, this show offers practical advice specifically for owner-operators and small fleet owners. It covers taxes, fuel efficiency, insurance, and how to turn trucking into a profitable business—not just a job.
Source: Apple Podcasts – Trucking Business & Beyond

Why These Trucking Podcasts Matter

Trucking podcasts like these fill a gap that many drivers feel on the road—connection. Whether it’s finding encouragement during a tough week, picking up budgeting strategies, or hearing from others juggling family life, these episodes bring more than entertainment. They bring perspective, validation, and even tools for real-life change.

For any driver looking to do more than just pass the time, tuning into voices that reflect your journey—and challenges—is one of the easiest ways to stay grounded and inspired.

The post Trucking Podcasts That Cover Life Beyond the Wheel: Mental Health, Family, and Finance appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

1. Safety Comes First

Veteran drivers emphasize the importance of prioritizing safety above all else. Ward Miller wisely advises, “No load or delivery time is as valuable as your life.” Arnold Jaimes Jr. echoes this sentiment: “No load is worth your life. Slow it down and arrive safely.”

2. Keep Your Cool Under Pressure

Driving a truck, especially in challenging conditions, requires a calm mind. Glen Hidlay shared his wisdom: “#1, don’t panic. Find a safe place to pull over and calmly figure out a solution to your problem.” Rick Petersen adds: “When in doubt, get out. Whether it’s weather, tricky situations, or even your health—take a step back and keep it safe.”

3. Plan, Prepare, and Be Resourceful

Success in trucking often comes down to preparation. Susie Gilcrease recommends keeping essentials on hand: “Carry replacement bulbs, extra placards, grease packs for the 5th wheel, and some basic tools. Also, keep snacks and drinks in your truck—truck stops can be expensive.” Jeremy Morgan and Ricky Groover also stress the importance of learning how to read an atlas, instead of relying solely on GPS.

4. Keep Learning

Trucking is a career that thrives on constant growth. Sunset Smoky offers this advice: “Get all your endorsements and learn to drive every manual you can, especially a 13-speed.” Sheri Horton Frenden reminds drivers to listen to their experienced peers: “Take advice from veteran drivers—they’ve been where you are.”

Raymond Sulak highlights the value of diversifying your skills: “When given the chance to learn a new piece of equipment, do it. Learning a variety of equipment will make you more versatile and open doors to opportunities.”

5. Trust Your Instincts

Many drivers urge rookies to trust their gut feelings. Doug Bray keeps it simple: “You’re in charge of that truck. If you don’t feel comfortable, don’t do it.” Amber Mendenhall adds: “Your safety is more important than any load, especially in winter conditions.”

6. Patience is Key

Dealing with traffic and tight schedules can test anyone’s patience. Terrence Brady offers valuable advice: “Work on your patience constantly. Stay focused on the road.” Roger Willis suggests: “Stay out of the cluster of trucks and always scan ahead to anticipate potential issues.”

7. Respect Yourself and Others

Respect goes a long way in trucking. Paul Linnemeyer reminds us: “Be courteous to everyone. Stop and help your fellow drivers, and always respect the rights of others.”

8. Take Care of Your Health

The trucking lifestyle can be demanding. Chris Knox cautions: “It can take a toll on your personal life, so be sure you want to do it. But it can also be a very good life.” Dennis Everett emphasizes being prepared for all situations: “Always have a coat, tools, coolant, oil, fuel additive for winter, and washer fluid.”

9. Avoid Complacency

Even experienced drivers need to stay vigilant. Frank LeClair reminds us: “Don’t get complacent. Just when you think you’ve got everything down, that’s when mistakes happen.”

10. Stay Grounded

Kenneth Wagner offers this simple piece of advice: “Stay focused, and always keep safety as your top priority.”

Final Thoughts

Trucking is a rewarding career but comes with its unique challenges. The advice shared by these seasoned professionals highlights the importance of safety, preparation, patience, and respect—both for yourself and others. If you’re starting your journey, take their wisdom to heart. As Bishop Hinners puts it, “The #1 responsibility of your job is to get you, your truck, and your freight to its destination safely and on time.”

For more stories and support from drivers just like you, join our Truck Drivers USA Facebook community. It’s a place where you can connect, share, and learn from others who understand the journey.

Stay safe out there, and remember—you’re never alone on the road.

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