Podcast: Fighting for Truckers’ Rights, with Lewie Pugh, Executive Vice President of OOIDA

Trucking is more than just a job; it’s a way of life. However, as independent truckers encounter increasing difficulties, having a strong voice in Washington becomes more vital than ever. In this episode of Freight Nation: A Trucking Podcast, host Brent Hutto sits down with Lewie Pugh, executive vice president of the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association (OOIDA), to explore his journey from life on the road to advocating for truckers nationwide. 

A Lifelong Passion for Trucking 

Lewie Pugh’s life circumstances greatly shaped his choice to work in trucking. Growing up in Appalachia, Ohio, he was surrounded by the trucking lifestyle. His father and grandfather were truck drivers, and from a young age, Lewie knew he wanted to follow in their footsteps. He spent his early years driving farm equipment, watching Smokey and the Bandit, and dreaming of the open road. 

“From the time I was a kid, I knew I wanted to be a trucker. It was in my blood, my dad, my grandpa, my whole world revolved around trucks.” 

By age 22, Lewie was an owner-operator,  running his own trucking business and witnessing firsthand the struggles that independent truckers endure, like growing expenses, regulatory burdens, and unfair policies that can put small trucking businesses at a disadvantage.  

Why Truckers Need a Voice in Washington 

After years on the road, Lewie realized that truckers needed stronger representation in government. Too often, policies were being shaped without input from the very people they affected the most. That’s what led him to OOIDA, an organization dedicated to fighting for truckers’ rights. 

“There aren’t many truckers walking the halls of DC. That’s why we have to be loud. If we don’t stand up and fight, no one else will.” 

Through his work at OOIDA, Lewie has become a powerful advocate for truckers,testifying before Congress to ensure that independent owner-operators have a voice in the discussion of new regulations. 

The Road from Trucking to Advocacy 

Making the transition from trucking to full-time advocacy wasn’t easy. Lewie reflects on the moment he decided to step away from his trucking business and dedicate himself fully to fighting for the industry he loves. 

“It was a tough decision,” Lewie admits. “Trucking has been good to me. It’s been the love of my life. But if I can go make a difference and make trucking a little bit better for other people, that’s what I want to do.” 

Since joining OOIDA, Lewie has been on the frontlines of critical industry issues, fighting for fair wages, improved working conditions, and policies that protect the livelihoods of small trucking businesses. 

Importance of Building a Stronger Trucking Community

Beyond policy changes in the trucking industry, Lewie emphasizes the importance of relationships in the trucking industry. “Relationships are everything in this industry. The people you surround yourself with can make or break your success, whether fellow truckers, brokers, or shippers.” 

Lewie encourages truckers to build strong networks, get involved with advocacy groups, and support each other, rather than competing against one another. “The way we make our industry better is by working together. Dividing and tearing each other down only helps those who don’t want us to be successful.” 

What’s Next for Trucking? 

As trucking continues to transform, Lewie offers his insights on some of the difficulties drivers experience today, such as changing rules and market instability. He emphasizes the need for truckers to stay informed and involved in industry conversations.  

“Whether it’s OOIDA or another group, you must stand up for your rights.” 

Lewie is hopeful about the direction trucking is headed and thinks that with activism and community support, truckers can take charge of their sector and drive for favorable change. His journey from the driver’s seat to Washington’s hallways is evidence of the force of perseverance and commitment. For independent truckers, his efforts at OOIDA are helping to ensure their voices are heard in the discussions that shape their livelihoods. 

To hear more about Lewie Pugh’s insights and advocacy efforts, listen to this episode of Freight Nation: A Trucking Podcast on Apple, Spotify, or your favorite podcast platform.