Podcast: Embracing Carrier Relationships and Leadership in Freight with Drew Herpich

The freight industry is a dynamic field where relationships, adaptability, and leadership are pivotal in driving success. On this episode of Freight Nation: A Trucking Podcast, host Brent Hutto sits down with Drew Herpich, Chief Commercial Officer (CCO) of NTG, to discuss his journey from a young professional engaging with carriers at truck stops to leading a major logistics organization through strategic growth and innovation.

Building relationships from the ground up

Drew’s journey into the freight industry began with a commitment to understanding the needs of carriers. Early in his career, he took a hands-on approach, stopping at truck stops, distributing business cards, and building personal connections with drivers.

“Whether it’s a one-truck operation or a fleet of 500, understanding what carriers need is the foundation of strong partnerships,” Drew shares.

This ground-level engagement taught him the value of listening, a skill that has remained central to his leadership philosophy. Drew emphasizes that success in freight brokerage goes beyond moving loads; it’s about truly understanding the people and businesses that keep freight moving.

Apply lessons learned

Drew’s career took off at Coyote Logistics, where he rose through the ranks, gaining invaluable insights into freight brokerage and team dynamics. He reflects on the fast-paced environment, where a culture of collaboration and coachability helped him and others thrive.

“The best leaders stay coachable. If you think you’re the smartest person in the room, you’re probably in the wrong room,” Drew notes.

His time at Coyote was instrumental in shaping his approach to leadership, teaching him to balance short-term execution with long-term strategic thinking.

Navigating change at NTG

When Drew joined NTG in 2020, the company was undergoing a significant transformation, shifting from a cradle-to-grave model to a buy-sell approach. This transition required rethinking processes and redefining relationships with carriers and customers.

Drew spearheaded initiatives to enhance operational efficiency and strengthen carrier partnerships. By focusing on clear communication and aligning services with carrier priorities, NTG created a more scalable and effective brokerage model.

Leadership through freight market cycles

The freight industry’s cyclical nature presents unique challenges, and Drew’s leadership has been tested during periods of volatility. Reflecting on the recent freight recession, he cautions against overanalyzing during tough times.

Drew advises, “If your processes worked well during the boom, don’t abandon them during a downturn. Consistency and a focus on long-term strategy are key to navigating market fluctuations.” 

This steady approach has helped NTG maintain momentum while adapting to a rapidly changing industry landscape.

Driving success freight

Under Drew’s leadership, NTG has embraced growth opportunities through mergers and acquisitions. He underscores the importance of cultural preservation during integrations, ensuring the strengths of acquired companies are retained while leveraging opportunities to drive success.

“Listening to the people who built these companies is crucial. It’s about understanding what made them great and building on that foundation,” Drew explains.

Conclusion: Insights for Freight Professionals

Drew Herpich’s story highlights the importance of relationships, adaptability, and leadership in the freight industry. From his early days connecting with carriers at truck stops to leading NTG through transformative growth, his journey exemplifies the value of listening, understanding, and staying committed to core principles.

For freight professionals looking to build successful careers or businesses, Drew’s insights offer a roadmap: 

• Focus on relationships
• Embrace change with resilience, and 
• Lead with humility and vision.

To hear more about Drew Herpich’s journey and his strategies for success, listen to this episode of Freight Nation: A Trucking Podcast on Apple, Spotify, or your favorite podcast platform.