Podcast: How 10-4 Magazine Became the Voice of Truckers for 31 Years

For over 30 years, 10-4 Magazine has been more than just a publication. It has been a voice for the trucking community. What started as a simple classified ad paper has become one of the industry’s most respected independent trucking magazines.

In this episode of Freight Nation: A Trucking Podcast, host Brent Hutto is joined by Daniel Linss, editor/art director, and Tim Sieben, TFK show manager, both of 10-4 Magazine, one of the most recognized publications in the trucking industry. They discuss the magazine’s evolution, the impact of trucker storytelling, and the importance of preserving trucking culture.

The Birth of 10-4 Magazine: From Classified Ads to a Trucking Legacy

Every great trucking business has a story, and 10-4 Magazine is no exception. Founded in 1993, it began as a small classified ad publication in southern California,created by a local dirt truck driver with a simple idea.

Over time, 10-4 evolved beyond classifieds and became a full-fledged publication dedicated to trucking stories, culture, and industry coverage. It became a trusted media platform that truckers rely on month after month.

Why 10-4 Magazine Resonates with Truckers

Truckers have always taken pride in their rigs, their road stories, and their community. 10-4 Magazine thrives on capturing these elements through photography, in-depth features, and truck show coverage.

“People want to know, ‘How do I get from here to owning 10 show trucks?’ They want to see those success stories, and that’s what we do. We tell their stories and show them what’s possible.” – Daniel Linss

Unlike other publications that focus on regulations and business logistics, 10-4 Magazine celebrates trucking as a way of life. The magazine showcases beautifully detailed trucks, interviews with passionate drivers, and event recaps that highlight the heart of the trucking world.

The Challenges of Running an Independent Trucking Magazine

Creating a high-quality magazine every month is no small feat. Daniel and Tim share the behind-the-scenes challenges of running a publication in an industry that is constantly evolving.

“People always say, ‘You guys have the best job. You just go to truck shows, hang out, and have a good time.’ But that’s a very small portion of what we do. There’s a whole bunch of grunt work behind the scenes that happens day to day.” – Daniel Linss

With the rise of digital media and changing consumption habits, print publications have had to adapt. However, 10-4 Magazine continues to thrive by blending print with a strong online presence, ensuring truckers get their stories, whether they prefer flipping through pages or scrolling on their phones.

Trucking for Kids: Giving Back to the Industry

Beyond storytelling, 10-4 Magazine is deeply involved in the trucking community. One of its most impactful initiatives is Trucking for Kids, a charity event that raises funds for Shriners Hospital for Children and other charitable causes.

“It was a 40-year-old charity that had been getting a little bit smaller, and the couple who owned it wanted to retire and wanted us to take it over. So we looked at each other and thought, ‘Are we crazy for taking on a nonprofit?’ But we did, and it’s been a huge success.” – Tim Sieben

Since taking over the event, Daniel and Tim have helped raise over $210,000 to support children’s healthcare. The event brings together truckers, families, and industry supporters, proving once again that the trucking community looks out for its own.

What’s Next for 10-4 Magazine?

Even after 31 years in the industry, 10-4 Magazine continues to evolve. Daniel and Tim discuss their plans for:

• Expanding digital content through online articles and live coverage
• Launching new trucker events like the 10-4 Trucker Rodeo
• Continuing to celebrate trucking culture through photography and storytelling

“We’ve been at this for over 31 years, never missed a month, no matter what. Big or small, good economy or bad, we just keep showing up. That’s what our brand is all about.” – Daniel Linss

With its deep industry roots and commitment to preserving trucking heritage, 10-4 Magazine remains a trusted source for truckers across the country.

Want to hear more about the history, evolution, and future of 10-4 Magazine? Listen to this episode of Freight Nation: A Trucking Podcast on Apple, Spotify, or your favorite podcast platform.