SCF Team Looks Back At The Fun And Success Of MATS 2025 Trip
In this edition of the SCF Highway To Hope Podcast, we will be taking a look back at the connections made and the success achieved by the SCF Team during the 2025 edition of the Mid-America Trucking Show, which took place at the end of March. Elisabeth Barna returns to the podcast to share the details about the success of SCF’s Silent Auction event. We’ll also talk about the overall fundraising efforts for SCF that took place over the three days of MATS 2025. Elisabeth is the founder and principal of EAB Strategies, a consulting firm which is focused on helping trucking and logistics companies. Elisabeth also serves as the Secretary on the Board of Directors for the St. Christopher Truckers Relief Fund. During this episode of the podcast, we will also meet Diane Hutsell, who recently joined SCF as the organization’s Director of Philanthropy. Donna Kennedy, the Executive Director for the St. Christopher Truckers Relief Fund, is your host for this edition of the podcast. As you’ll hear, we’ll take some time in the final part of this episode to highlight a special honor that Donna received during MATS 2025.
SCF Gears Up For Silent Auction Fund Raiser At MATS
In this episode of the SCF Highway To Hope, you’ll get a preview of what the St. Christopher Truckers Relief Fund has planned for this year’s Mid-America Trucking Show, which is happening in Louisville March 27-29. Once again this year, SCF will be holding a silent auction fund-raising event on the opening night of MATS. For this edition of the podcast, SCF Board Secretary Elisabeth Barna, who is also the founder of EAB Strategies, joins SCF Executive Director Donna Kennedy to discuss the Silent Auction. As you will hear, Elisabeth shares the details on the SCF Silent Auction event, including offering us a preview featuring many of the items up for bid. Donna and Elisabeth also talk about what will be happening at the SCF booth during the three-day annual MATS event that has been a tradition in the trucking industry for more than 50 years.
Getting to Know OOIDA PR Director And New SCF Board President Norita Taylor
In this edition of the podcast, our guest is Norita Taylor, the new President of the Board of Directors for the St. Christopher Truckers Relief Fund. As you will hear, Norita is well-respected throughout the trucking industry for her work as the Director of Public Relations for the Owner-Operator Independent Driver Association, OOIDA. Through this segment, Norita shares her career journey into PR and the trucking industry, which brought her to OOIDA. Nortia also talks about her first experiences with the St. Christopher Truckers Relief Fund and the commitment to SCF’s work that inspired her desire to lead the SCF Board of Directors as the organization’s president. Donna Kennedy, the Executive Director for the St. Christopher Truckers Relief Fund, is your host for this edition of the podcast. Donna will be joined in her conversation with Norita by Greg Thompson, the Executive Producer of PodWheels.
Get Healthier In 2025: Detailing SCF’s Health And Wellness Programs
For the episode that opens 2025 and our sixth podcast season, we will get an update from Lindsey Bryan, who is the Health and Wellness Manager for SCF. As you will hear, Lindsey will be discussing several of the health and wellness programs developed by SCF, including Healthy Habits for the Long Haul, Rigs Without Cigs, Get Preventative Screenings, Diabetes Prevention, Vaccine Vouchers and the upcoming Virtual 5K. Also, during this episode, Shannon Currier looks back at SCF’s fundraising efforts during 2024, noting the organization’s successes as well as future initiatives which, as always, are focused on assisting professional drivers and their families.
Managing Health Coverage And Healthcare Options In Today’s World
In this episode of the SCF Highway to Hope, David King from HomeHealth20.com returns to the podcast to continue a discussion on Health Coverage and Healthcare options that professional drivers can utilize. SCF Director of Philanthropy is your host and she talks to David about a variety of health coverage options that can address the needs of those on the road, especially owner-operators, independent contractors and any trucking professional who is not able to obtain coverage through their fleet. Shannon and David will address affordable telehealth plans and prescription drug cards while also providing comprehensive insights into the practical benefits and affordability of these plans. As you will hear, David, along with Shannon, emphasize the importance of preventative health measures. This segment also highlights the importance of transparency and the support provided through SCF.
Navigating Health Insurance Options for Professional Drivers
In this episode of the SCF Highway to Hope podcast, we welcome trucking industry veteran David King from Home20Health.com for the first part of a two-part series. As you’ll hear, David is an expert on health coverage options available for independent contractors and small fleet operators. SCF Director of Philanthropy Shannon Currier is your host for a discussion that covers the challenges drivers face with health crises and the importance of preventive care. In addition, the topics of affordable alternatives, like telehealth services, and prescription drug discount cards are part of the conversation. Shannon will also be talking with David about practical advice on managing health issues, securing insurance and maintaining eligibility for medical cards. As you’ll hear, the focus of this episode is to ensure that the nation’s professional drivers are well-informed and proactive about your health.
For SCF Board Member Mark Singleton, Driver Appreciation Is Not Limited To One Week On The Calendar
Recorded on Thursday of the official National Truck Driver Appreciation Week, SCF Board Member Mark Singleton reminds everyone that our appreciation for the mile-by-mile work done by America’ professional drivers should not be limited to one week in September. Mark, who is the Vice President of Sales and Marketing at Rudolph Foods Company, joins this edition of the podcast to talk about his respect and admiration for professional drivers. He also discusses how Rudolph Foods, the world's largest manufacturer of pork rinds highlighted by its Southern Recipe brand, is working to make a difference in the lives of drivers and their families through the company’s support of the work done by SCF. While chatting with SCF Director of Philanthropy and podcast host Shannon Currier, Mark highlights both the financial assistance SCF provides to professional drivers in need as well as the wellness programs developed for drivers by SCF. As you will hear, this episode underscores the essential role of truck drivers in the supply chain and encourages businesses and individuals to show appreciation and support for these vital members of the American workforce.
Exploring Occupational Accident Insurance & How This Coverage Helps 1099 Independent Contractor Drivers
In this episode of the podcast, we are dedicating some time to learn about Occupational Accident Insurance and how this coverage provides another important safety net for professional drivers. For our discussion, we will be welcoming Andrew Deutsch, Senior Product & Strategy Director at Intact Insurance Accident & Health. “Occ-Acc,” as it is commonly referred to in the industry, is a standard coverage for most fleets. However, Occ-Acc can sometimes become an overlooked area of coverage for independent contractors and owner-operators. Through this episode, we’ll look at various aspects of Occ-Acc and we will discuss how it differs from other policies, including short-term and long-term disability and workers compensation. SCF Director of Philanthropy Shannon Currier is your host for the SCF Highway To Hope Podcast, and Shannon’s conversation with Andrew is a must-listen for independent contractors, owner-operators and any trucking entrepreneurs who currently do not have occupational accident insurance as part of your coverage. As you will hear, Andrew has many great insights on the subject. In his current position with Intact Insurance Accident & Health, Andrew focuses on product development, compliance, contracts, and privacy issues involving occupational accident and contingent liability for transportation and sharing economy businesses, as well as non-trucking liability and auto liability.
Good Sleep Matters: DAT’s Dean Croke Discusses Important Role of Proper Rest
How important is it for a professional driver to get at least six hours of sleep during your 10-hour break period? Dean Croke knows the answer to this question and a host of others related to the value of quality sleep for the men and women behind the wheel. Dean has enjoyed a wide-ranging and fascinating career in the trucking industry. Entering the industry as a driver and then fleet owner in his native Australia, Dean eventually found his way to the United States and to his current position as Principal Analyst at DAT. Through his years in trucking, Dean began to study sleep and the role that it plays in the health and safety of professional drivers. During this episode of the SCF Highway To Hope, Podcast Host and SCF Director of Philanthropy Shannon Currier will take a trip back with Dean through his career and how Dean has become an important voice for sleep health within the trucking industry.
Getting To Know Jacob Findlay, Co-Founder and Executive Chairman of Fullbay
Our guest for this edition of the podcast is Jacob Findlay, who is the Co-Founder and Executive Chairman of Fullbay. For those who may not be familiar with the company, Fullbay is a heavy-duty repair shop management platform that enables shops to receive repair requests, invoice customers, and everything in between. With Fullbay, owners and employees get into the shop, get their work done, and get back to their friends and families. SCF Director of Philanthropy Shannon Currier is your host for the Highway To Hope, and Shannon has a wide-ranging conversation with Jacob. As listeners will hear, Jacob, who began his career in accounting and worked as a professor at one point in his career, has an interesting story on how he found the trucking industry. Through this interview, you will hear Jacob’s passion for helping to improve trucking and giving back to the industry. You will also hear Jacob discuss Fullbay Cares, which is dedicated to giving back to the essential workers of heavy-duty repair. From supporting charitable organizations to community service, the goal of Fullbay Cares is to help however possible.
SCF Healthy Habits Program Making A True Difference For Professional Drivers
During this episode of the podcast, you’ll hear the personal story of Shaun Lezer, a professional driver who knew he needed to make some changes with his diet on the road. After hearing some details about SCF”s Healthy Habits program, Shaun was able to connect with SCF Health & Wellness Manager Lindsey Bryan. As you’ll hear from both Lindsey and Shaun on the podcast, she got Shaun enrolled and active in the Health Habits program. And, by following the program outline, Shaun is feeling better and healthier now with every mile he drives. SCF Director of Philanthropy Shannon Currier is your host of the SCF Highway To Hope Podcast.
Our Chat With Kari Rihm, An Inspirational Business Leader Who Gives Back To Her Industry & Community
In this episode of the podcast, we highlight the inspirational story of Kari Rihm, the President and CEO of Rihm Family Companies. Following her husband's death shortly after he was diagnosed with inoperable brain cancer in 2010, Kari answered the call to lead the company that had been started by the Rihm family in 1932. Under Kari’s guidance as the only 100% woman-owned Kenworth dealership in the U.S., the company has continued to prosper and grow. As you will hear, Kari has also dedicated time and resources to giving back to her community in the Twin Cities of Minnesota as well as the trucking industry – with one of those beneficiaries being SCF. Shannon Currier, the Director of Philanthropy for SCF, is your host for the podcast, and she covers a variety of interesting and heartwarming topics with Kari.
Part 3: Examining Accident Coverage as Part of a Short-Term Disability Plan
In our final segment on our three-part series covering the value of short-term disability coverage for professional drivers, Mark Ballard returns to the podcast to discuss how accident coverage can be beneficial when it comes to on-the-job injuries. Mark is the the Program Director with Trucker's Healthcare, and he is an expert in the field of short-term disability coverage. SCF Director of Philanthropy Shannon Currier serves as the host for the Highway To Hope Podcast. Shannon will be joined once again by SCF Executive Director Donna Kennedy for the final portion of the interview with Mark.
Part 2: Hear Expert Perspective On Obtaining Short-Term Disability Insurance
For the second episode in our three-part series on the value of short-term disability insurance for professional drivers, SCF's Highway To Hope will feature the expert perspective of Mark Ballard. As the Program Director with Trucker's Healthcare, Mark holds a depth of knowledge on short-term disability insurance and how this type of coverage can provide a tremendous amount of value for professional drivers. SCF Director of Philanthropy Shannon Currier leads the discussion as the host of the podcast. Shannon is also joined for the interview with Mark by Donna Kennedy, who is the Executive Director of the St. Christopher Truckers Relief Fund.
Part 1: Short-Term Disability Coverage Is Vital For Professional Drivers
In the first episode of our three-part series examining the importance of securing short-term disability coverage as a professional driver, we will meet Kyle, who became a SCF beneficiary after a medical emergency took him off the road for an extended period of time. Kyle shares his story with SCF Highway To Hope Podcast host Shannon Currier, who is also the organization's Director of Philanthropy. Shannon is joined for her interview with Kyle by Donna Kennedy who is the Executive Director of SCF. As you will hear, Kyle explains that his situation could have been much easier if he had taken steps to secure short-term disability coverage.
What Should Be The Pillars of Your Financial House?
In the final episode of our six-part series discussing how to improve your financial health, we explore having the right insurance coverages in place and the other considerations that factor into establishing the foundational pillars of how you want to build your financial house. While there are some constants in everyone’s planning, the way people choose to construct the foundation of a financial house is often dependent on individual needs and where you are in your life. SCF Director of Philanthropy Shannon Currier is the host of the SCF Highway To Hope Podcast. The featured guest during this series on financial health is Sarah Collen, a New York Life agent. As you’ll hear, Sarah is once again sharing her perspective and insights in her discussion with Shannon.
Highlighting Importance of Life Insurance
During the fifth installment of our six-part series focusing on financial health, the SCF Highway To Hope highlights the importance and value of securing life insurance coverage. Podcast host Shannon Currier, the Director of Philanthropy for SCF, talks once again to New York Life agent Sarah Collen. As you'll hear through this episode of the podcast, life insurance is a key element to have in place to care of your family at the time of your passing. Additionally, as Shannon and Sarah discuss, taking the steps to have the proper life insurance coverage can be especially valuable if you die unexpectedly.
Establishing Your Financial Protection Layer With Insurance
For the fourth episode in our six-part series on financial health, we focus our attention on taking the necessary steps to establish a financial protection layer with insurance. New York Life agent Sarah Collen will discuss a variety of insurance coverages with SCF Director of Philanthropy Shannon Currier, who is your host for the SCF Highway To Hope Podcast. As you’ll hear, Sarah and Shannon will walk listeners through the key questions and reasons for considering different types of insurance coverage.
Building A Strong Financial House
In the third episode of our six-part series looking at ways to improve our overall financial health, the SCF Highway To Hope will place a focus on the construction of your Financial House. New York Life agent Sarah Collen introduces listeners to the concept of the financial house, including the key elements that are needed to build a strong foundation. SCF Director of Philanthropy Shannon Currier is your host for the Highway To Hope. As they do throughout this series, Shannon and Sarah have an engaging conversation that is designed to help listeners with many of the challenges involved when seeking to strengthen financial health.
Understanding The Value Of Financial Planning
With the second episode in our six-part series exploring the importance of your financial health, we place the focus on understanding the value of financial planning. Podcast host Shannon Currier, the Director of Philanthropy for the St. Christopher Truckers Relief Fund, talks with New York Life agent Sarah Collen. In this segment, Shannon and Sarah discuss the importance of creating and following a financial plan that allows you to address your needs of today as well as securing your future. As Sarah notes, many people wait until they are approaching traditional retirement years before they begin to put money away for retirement. Shannon and Sarah talk about the concept of identifying where you want to be financially and then following a plan that will allow you to achieve your financial goals.
Checking Up On Your Financial Health
With the first episode in a six-part series, the SCF Highway To Hope Podcast begins to take a detailed look at the concept of Financial Health. Podcast host Shannon Currier, who serves as the Director of Philanthropy for SCF, is joined on the series by Sarah Collen, who is an agent of New York Life. As you will hear in Part 1 of the series, Shannon and Sarah provide an overview that examines the overall importance of financial health in our daily lives.
2023 Concert Artist Series: Meet Lindsay Lawler, Part 2
The final edition of our Artist Interview Series ahead of the Highway To Hope Benefit Concert taking place on Saturday, April 22, will feature Part 2 of our conversation with Lindsay Lawler, who will be one of the featured artists for the SCF benefit show at Cotton Eyed Joe’s in Knoxville, Tenn. During this portion of the interview, SCF Podcast host Shannon Currier talks to Lindsay about her growth as a songwriter over the years and they discuss Lindsay’s upcoming country music album. Lindsay shares the title of the new album with listeners as well as her plans to play one of the songs from the album during the April 22nd benefit. Shannon and Lindsay also discuss some of the anthem songs in Lindsay’s musical catalog. Listeners will hear Lindsay’s song Truckers And Rodeo Crowds during the podcast.
2023 Concert Artist Series: Meet Lindsay Lawler, Part 1
The Highway To Hope Benefit Concert is happening on Saturday, April 22 at Cotton Eyed Joe’s in Knoxville, Tenn. As part of our final countdown to the show, our concert artist podcast series presents Part 1 of our interview with Lindsay Lawler, who will be one of the featured performers at the show. In Part 1, SCF Podcast host Shannon Currier catches up with Lindsay, who, in addition to her accomplishments as a musical artist, has been a long-time friend of the trucking industry and SCF. During Part 1, Lindsay looks back on her career, the relationship she has built with trucking and her newest role, serving as the co-host with Jimmy Mac on the Dave Nemo Weekends show heard every Saturday and Sunday morning on SiriusXM’s Radio Dog Trucking Radio Channel 146. This edition of the podcast also features Lindsay’s very moving and inspirational song I’m Okay.
2023 Concert Artist Series: Meet Levi Hummon, Part 2
In Part 2 of our conversation with rising country artist Levi Hummon ahead of the April 22 Highway To Hope Benefit Concert, we spend some time exploring Levi’s songwriting influences. As we shared in Part 1, Levi is the son of Grammy-winning songwriter Marcus Hummon. In Part 2, Levi talks about the impactful community work that his mother, the Rev. Becca Stevens, has done in the Nashville area and how that has influenced his perspective on life. Rev. Stevens began a ministry that is focused on helping former prostitutes overcoming addiction and wanting to restart their lives. Her work in launching Thistle Farms has been nationally recognized. During this edition of the podcast, listeners will hear Rent Free, Levi’s latest single.
2023 Concert Artist Series: Meet Levi Hummon, Part 1
The Highway To Hope Benefit Concert is just around the corner and we have the first of four special artist series podcast episodes that we will be sharing with you. To kick things off, we have the first segment of a two-part interview with Levi Hummon, a rising country music artist who will be headlining our Highway To Hope Benefit Concert event on April 22. Levi joins the podcast to talk about what ultimately inspired him to follow in his father into the music business. His father is Marcus Hummon, one of the most respected songwriters working out of Nashville. SCF Highway To Hope Podcast host Shannon Currier also talks to Levi about his growth as a songwriter and an artist. This edition of the podcast features one of Levi's songs, Good Riddance.
New Program Sponsored By Driver Solutions Promotes Better Health Through Walking
We’re opening the 2023 season of the SCF Highway To Hope Podcast by highlighting a new program being sponsored by Driver Solutions that is designed to get professional drivers to take the first steps toward better fitness. Sydney Cox, the Digital Marketing Coordinator for Driver Solutions, joins us for this episode to discuss The Truck Driver Step Challenge, a new program that encourages professional drivers to take some time each day to walk, or to get moving in some form or fashion. Highway to Hope Podcast host Shannon Currier, who is also SCF’s Director of Philanthropy, talks to Sydney about the new program and how professional drivers can participate.
Putting The Smokes Out With SCF’s Rigs Without Cigs Program
For this edition of the SCF Highway to Hope Podcast, we will be focusing on our Rigs Without Cigs program as we mark Great American Smoke Out Day for 2022. Smoking is the leading cause of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). Did you know
that 16 million people in America have been diagnosed with COPD and smoking is the leading cause of COPD? In this episode of the podcast, you’ll hear in-depth perspective on St. Christopher Fund’s Rigs Without Cigs smoking cessation program.
SCF Highway To Hope Podcast host Shannon Currier will be talking with SCF’s Health and Wellness Manager Julie Dillon and Rigs Without Cigs participant Michael Fazekas. You’ll also hear a very interesting discussion featuring representatives
from our program sponsors on why this program is so important to them. Studies show that more than half of the nation's three million truck drivers are smokers, and SCF has an effective solution to support drivers in their journey to become tobacco
free. The Great American Smoke Out for 2022 will take place on November 17. If you're ready to kick the habit, SCF has the program to help you do it!
NTTC Honors Driver of the Year Grand Champion Tom Frain With $2,500 Donation To SCF
During this special episode of the SCF Highway To Hope Podcast, you’ll meet Tom Frain, who earned the prestigious honor of being named the 2021–2022 Professional Tank Truck Driver of the Year Grand Champion by the National Tank Truck Carriers.
Tom will be looking back at his career in trucking and what it means to him to become recognized as the top driver in the tank truck classification. SCF Director of Philanthropy Shannon Currier, who is your host for the Highway To Hope Podcast, will be
talking to Tom about his journey to become the Grand Champion. Will Lusk, who is the Manager of Education and Government Relations for the NTTC, is also a guest on this edition of the podcast. As you’ll hear, Will also serves as the NTTC staff representative
for the Driver of the Year program. One of the highlights from the program that Will, Tom and Shannon will be discussing is the donation of $2,500 that NTTC is making to SCF in honor of Tom becoming Grand Champion.
Big Rig Coffee Launches & Details Plans To Support SCF
In this episode of the podcast, we’ll be meeting Hunter Wilson and Gabriel Massey, the entrepreneurs behind the launch of the Big Rig Coffee Company. The stated mission of the company is to provide the best quality coffee, apparel and service to
the truck drivers of America. The Highway To Hope Podcast is highlighting the launch of Big Rig Coffee because the founders of the company have made the decision up front to donate a portion of their sales to the St. Christopher Truckers Relief Fund.
SCF Director of Philanthropy Shannon Currier is your host for the Highway To Hope Podcast. Shannon will be talking to the company founders about their background as military veterans and how they decided to launch a coffee company dedicated to the nation’s
professional drivers. You’ll also hear the details on how Big Rig Coffee will be supporting SCF.
SCF Founders Celebrate $4 Million Milestone
In this special episode of our podcast series, the Highway To Hope celebrates a true milestone for the St. Christopher Truckers Relief Fund. As you will hear, we have gathered the non-profit organization’s trio of founders –
Dr. John McElligott, Dave Nemo and Michael Burns – to mark a momentous achievement for SCF. The founders will be joined by SCF Executive Director Donna Kennedy and SCF Board President Joyce Brenny to look back at our history while commemorating
the accomplishment of surpassing $4 million of support provided to professional drivers and their families. SCF Director of Philanthropy Shannon Currier is your host for the Highway To Hope Podcast. Shannon will serve as the tour guide that looks at SCF’s
beginnings, the organization’s growth over the years and the impact that SCF continues to make within the trucking industry.
Our MATS Preview: Looking Forward To Seeing Everyone Again
The SCF Highway To Hope Podcast kicks off our third season as we enter the final countdown prior to the return of the Mid-America Trucking Show (MATS), March 24-26. Highway To Hope Podcast host Shannon Currier, who is also the Director of Philanthropy
and Development for SCF, previews the plans and activities that SCF has in place for the 50th anniversary edition of MATS. Shannon will be joined on this edition of the podcast by SCF Health & Wellness Manager Julie Dillion and by Greg Thompson, the
Executive Producer of PodWheels. In addition to discussing the health and wellness activities that Julie and the SCF team have planned for MATS, our discussion with Julie looks back at the success that SCF has found through the virtual health and wellness
programs the organization developed over the past couple of years. Julie will highlight some of the success stories and she will discuss the overall impact that SCF has seen from the virtual health and wellness programs.
Our Update On SCF's Driving Down Diabetes Program
In this episode of the Highway To Hope, you’ll hear an in-depth update on SCF’s Driving Down Diabetes program. SCF Health & Wellness Manager Julie Dillon shares how this effort to address and prevent diabetes among professional drivers
has grown and taken shape with a supportive community of participants. During this episode, you’ll also hear about the impact that the Driving Down Diabetes initiative has made from two of the people in the program. Lei Meyers and Darrin Winters
will be joining this edition of the podcast from road. Lei and Darrin each share their inspirational stories on why they entered the program and the positive changes they have both made. SCF Director of Philanthropy and Development Shannon Currier is
your host for the SCF Highway to Hope Podcast. Shannon is joined on the podcast by Greg Thompson, the Executive Producer of the PodWheels Network.
Part 3: Making Healthcare & Insurance More Accessible for Professional Drivers
For the conclusion of our three-part series examining health insurance and healthcare options that are available to our trucking audience, the SCF Highway to Hope Podcast talks with Tammy Wright, the Director of Trucking for USHealth1. During this segment, you’ll hear Tammy discuss the importance of securing health insurance as well as the work that USHealth1 is doing to make health insurance and healthcare options more accessible for professional drivers and their families. As always, the conversation is being led by SCF Director of Philanthropy & Development Shannon Currier, who is your host for the SCF Highway To Hope Podcast.
Part 2: Highlighting The Benefits of Telemedicine
In Part 2 of our three-part series examining health insurance and healthcare options that are available to our trucking audience, the SCF Highway to Hope Podcast talks with Donn Beam, the President and CEO of Everywhere.care. We discuss the rise in popularity of telemedicine and how the services of Everywhere.care are being utilized. SCF Director of Philanthropy and Development Shannon Currier is your host for the Highway To Hope Podcast, and you’ll hear Shannon talk with Donn about how Everywhere.care is working with SCF to provide a special discount on the services provided by Everwhere.care.
Our Health Insurance & Healthcare Options Series, Part 1
With this episode, the SCF Highway To Hope Podcast begins a three-part series examining health insurance and healthcare options that are available to our trucking audience. In Part One of this series, SCF Director of Philanthropy & Development Shannon
Currier welcomes Allison McKay, Life & Health Benefits Agent from the Owner-Operator Independent Driver Association (OOIDA) to the podcast. Shannon, who is also the host of the Highway To Hope Podcast, is joined by Greg Thompson, the Executive Producer
of the PodWheels Network. During this episode of the podcast, Shannon and Greg will be talking to Allison about the importance of health insurance, especially for professional drivers who are not insured or under-insured. Allison will provide some insights
on key considerations and she also shares details on health insurance programs available to members of OOIDA.
Special Series, Part 5: SCF's Q&A With Country Music Superstar Wynonna Judd
Country Music superstar Wynonna Judd, who is the headliner for the Highway To Hope Benefit Concert, caps off our special series of podcasts featuring the artists performing during the live virtual event on May 16th. The SCF Podcast interview, which was led by podcast host and SCF Director of Philanthropy and Development Shannon Currier, was one of the first media Q&As with Wynonna since the global pandemic. As you will hear, it was an extended conversation that covered a number of interesting topics. While discussing her respect for professional drivers through the interview, Wynonna offered her perspective on being out on the road and away from home, which shares many of the same emotions experienced by truckers behind the wheel. For the interview with Wynonna, Shannon was joined on the podcast by Donna Horton, a member of the Radio Nemo Team. Donna is a long-time friend of Wynonna, and she helped to connect SCF and Shannon to Wynonna’s team as SCF began to plan for the Highway to Hope Benefit. In addition to the conversation with Wynonna, this podcast also includes two songs recorded by Wynonna, No One Else On Earth and Ramble On Rose.
Special Series, Part 4: SCF's Q&A With Multitalented John Schneider
John Schneider joins us for an extended conversation during this episode of the podcast. As we get ready for John’s performance as part of the May 16th Highway To Hope virtual concert benefiting the work of SCF, we talked with John about his career in the entertainment industry that now spans more than 40 years. John revisits his beginnings when won the iconic role of Bo Duke in the Dukes of Hazzard TV show at age 18. We discuss his development as a writer and director in both television and film and how those efforts led to the development of John Schneider Studios. You’ll hear about John’s love for music and his growth in becoming a respected country artist who has recorded 22 albums and has registered five No. 1 hits on the country music charts. One of the highlights of the interview is the connection John has made with the trucking industry and the people behind the wheel. We’ll be talking about his latest album, Truck On, which is dedicated to the trucking industry and a portion of its sales benefits the work of SCF. During the podcast, which is hosted by SCF's Director of Philanthropy and Development Shannon Currier, we’ll be featuring three songs from Truck On, including the title track.
Special Series, Part 3: SCF's Q&A With Country Music Legend Billy Dean
Billy Dean is our featured guest in this episode of our special series highlighting the artists performing at the May 16th Highway To Hope virtual concert benefitting the work of SCF. During our interview, you’ll hear Billy share his amazing journey from what began as being a part of an area talent search competition to earning a place in the national spotlight, ultimately launching a career that now spans more than 30 memorable years in Country Music. SCF Highway To Hope Podcast host Shannon Currier talks to Billy about his contributions to what became the 1990s Country Sound, and how Billy became closely connected to the trucking industry, gaining an appreciation for drivers. This podcast will also feature four songs from Billy, including his classics Somewhere In My Broken Heart and Billy The Kid.
Special Series, Part 2: SCF's Chat With Country Star & Trucking Friend Lindsay Lawler
As we continue our special series previewing the artists who will be performing during SCF's Highway To Hope Virtual Concert on May 16th, our podcast catches up with Lindsay Lawler, the Red River Girl. During our interview with Lindsay, you will learn how she found her way to Nashville after starting her career in California. SCF Highway To Hope Podcast host Shannon Currier talks with Lindsay on how she built a strong bond with the trucking industry and what inspired to write Highway Angel for the Truckload Carriers Association. You'll hear the Highway Angel song as well as the upbeat tune Goodbye Go in full during this podcast.
Special Series, Part 1: SCF's Q&A With Rising Country Music Star Heath Sanders
Rising County Music Star Heath Sanders is our featured guest on the podcast as we begin a series highlighting SCF’s Highway To Hope Virtual Concert on May 16th. An artist who has drawn heavily from his blue-collar roots as a natural gas worker in the fields in Arkansas, Heath talks to us about how he found his way to realize success in country music. Heath also discusses the close connection he feels to America’s Professional Truck Drivers. During the podcast, which is hosted by SCF's Director of Philanthropy and Development Shannon Currier, we’ll feature two songs from Heath’s recorded work, including Common Ground from his latest EP.
Season 2, Episode 2: COVID-19 Update & SCF's Efforts to Get Drivers Vaccinated
We are dedicating this edition of the podcast to provide you with a trucking perspective on what’s happening with COVID-19 and the effort to get the country vaccinated. In our feature interview, you’ll hear from SCF Executive Director Donna Kennedy as well as Dr. John McElligott, the Medical Director and the owner of Occupational Health Systems, which is located in Knoxville, Tennessee. Dr. John is the co-founder of SCF, and he currently serves as a Volunteer Medical Advisor for SCF. Donna and Dr. John will be talking with the Highway to Hope about SCF’s efforts to get professional drivers vaccinated. Shannon Currier, the Director of Philanthropy and Development for SCF, serves as the host for the Highway To Hope.
Season 2, Episode 1: Looking Back at 2020 & Introducing SCF's Driving Down Diabetes Program
The SCF Highway to Hope Podcast returns for a second season. Once again, SCF Director of Philanthropy & Development Shannon Currier returns to serve as the host of the Highway To Hope. In our opening episode of Season 2, we look back at SCF’s fund-raising success in 2020 as the organization surpassed $1 million in donations. We also discuss SCF’s new Driving Down Diabetes program with Wellness Manager Julie Dillon and Kathryn Amatriain from Southern Recipe.
Episode 10: Owner-Op Howard Salmon Honors His Son In Giving Back To SCF
In this edition of the Highway To Hope Podcast, we will feature the touching story of owner-operator Howard Salmon, who has been a long-time supporter of SCF going back to the organization’s earliest days. In January of 2020, Howard and his family encountered their own time of need when a trip to the doctor for their young son, Liam, turned into a living nightmare. Deeply touched by the support SCF has provided following a devastating cancer diagnosis Liam, Howard and his family are finding ways to give back to SCF. As you’ll hear, Liam and Howard are serving as the faces of SCF’s Champion of Change program, which is being sponsored by TravelCenters of America.
Episode 9: Get Details On TravelCenters of America's New Program To Deliver Support For SCF
This edition of the podcast will feature our interview with Patty DelMonico, the Senior Manager of Commercial Marketing for TravelCenters of America. Patty will be discussing a new fundraising campaign that Travel Centers of America has launched to further support the mission of SCF. In addition, Patty, who is also a member of the SCF Board of Directors, looks back at the strong relationship that Travel Centers of America has built with SCF over the years. Listeners will enjoy the recollections she shared on the podcast with Shannon Currier, Director of Philanthropy and Development for SCF. Shannon also serves as the host for the Highway To Hope. Shannon is joined on the podcast once again by Greg Thompson, the Executive Producer of the PodWheels Network. Following the interview with Patty, Greg talks with Shannon to get some news updates on what’s happening at SCF and what’s ahead for the remainder of 2020.
Episode 8, 2020 Citizen Driver Jerry Seaman Discusses His Driving Career & Why He Supports SCF
In our August edition of the podcast, you’ll hear our feature interview with Jerry Seaman, who was honored by Travel Centers of America as a Citizen Driver of the Year for 2020. Jerry tells us how he began his driving career at 12 years old on a farm in South Dakota. You’ll also find out what has inspired him to serve as a professional driver for the past 48 years – compiling more than five million miles of accident-free, safe driving during his career. Jerry chose SCF as the charity that would be supported by the $2,500 donation Travel Centers of America made in honor of his selection as a Citizen Driver. During this podcast, we’ll also be getting an update from SCF Health & Wellness Manager Julie Dillon on the Driven To Be Healthy, Going The Distance Challenge. As always, SCF Director of Philanthropy and Development Shannon Currier serves as your host for the Highway To Hope. Shannon is joined on the podcast once again by Greg Thompson, the Executive Producer of the PodWheels Network.
Episode 7, Meet Our Driver Ambassadors Involved With SCF's Driven To Be Healthy, Going The Distance Challenge
This edition of the Highway To Hope will give us the opportunity to share more details and get an even greater perspective on SCF’s Driven To Be Healthy, Going The Distance Challenge. The new Health & Wellness from SCF initiative begins on July 27th, and it has been designed with a keen understanding of the demands that professional drivers face out on the road. SCF Director of Philanthropy and Development Shannon Currier is your host for the Highway To Hope. Shannon is once again joined on this edition of the podcast by Greg Thompson, the Executive Producer of the PodWheels Network. The guest list for this podcast includes SCF’s Wellness Manager Julie Dillon and Mother Trucker Yoga co-founder Hope Zvara. Veteran professional drivers Carmen Anderson and Craig Daniels will also join us in this edition of the podcast. Carmen and Craig will be serving as Driver Ambassadors for SCF’s Driven To Be Healthy, Going The Distance Challenge.
Episode 6, Detailing SCF's Going The Distance Health & Wellness Program
In the first of two Health & Wellness editions of the podcast to be released in July, the Highway To Hope details SCF’s Going The Distance Challenge. SCF Wellness Manager Julie Dillon highlights this new program. Joining Julie as guests on this edition of the podcast are Hope Zvara, the co-founder of Mother Trucker Yoga and Kim McDonnell, the Senior Marketing Content and Community Manager for RoadPro Family of Brands. RoadPro is serving as a sponsor for the Going The Distance Challenge. Julie and Hope outline the new program and how professional drivers can join the Going The Distance Challenge. Kim, who also serves on SCF’s Board of Directors, talks about RoadPro’s involvement with the program and the company’s support of SCF. SCF Director of Philanthropy and Development Shannon Currier serves as your host. Shannon is joined on the podcast by Greg Thompson, the Executive Producer of the PodWheels Network.
Episode 5, SCF Helps Driving Team After They Came Down With COVID-19
With this edition of the podcast, we will continue to look at the impact that COVID-19 is making on the trucking industry, and how SCF is responding to these new challenging times. In addition to meeting two new corporate sponsors joining SCF, our feature interview will highlight how those sponsorship and donor dollars are making a positive impact. Our feature interview will spotlight the harrowing experience of professional drivers Chris and Chanté Drew, a husband-and-wife team who enlisted the help of SCF after Chris came down with COVID-19 while on the road. Chris and Chanté, who were featured in late May on the PBS News Hour as they went through COVID-19, detail how SCF was able to assist them with their rent payments as they recovered and got back on the road. In this episode of the podcast, we’ll also talk to officials from Omnitracs and Yokohama Tire, hearing the details of what inspired their respective companies to join SCF as corporate sponsors.
Episode 4, The Inspiring Story of New SCF President Joyce Brenny
SCF President Joyce Brenny will be our featured guest on this edition of the SCF Highway To Hope podcast. Joyce is the owner and CEO of Brenny Transportation and Brenny Specialized. You’ll hear Joyce’s inspiring story, as she shares how she began her career in trucking at age 18 ultimately becoming a trailblazer within the industry. Joyce also details how she discovered the St. Christopher Truckers Relief Fund and became involved in SCF. Shannon Currier, the Director of Philanthropy and Development for SCF, serves as the host for the Highway To Hope. Shannon is joined on the podcast by Greg Thompson, the Executive Producer of the PodWheels Network. This edition of the podcast will also include an interview Matthew Miller from AMBEST. Matthew will be discussing the company’s long relationship with SCF as a sponsor, and he will also be talking about the company’s recent donation to SCF in the wake of the COVID-19 National Emergency. During his interview, Matthew will be sharing the initial details of an exciting promotion that AMBEST will holding later in the year involving a classic American-made car.
Episode 3, Saluting Drivers & Answering The Call During COVID-19
The Highway To Hope Podcast returns with the first of three episodes scheduled to be released in June. Old World Industries CEO & President Charles Culverhouse is our featured guest Charles Culverhouse on this edition of the podcast. OWI produces BlueDef Diesel Exhaust Fluid and Peak Coolants, and Charles joins SCF Director of Philanthropy and Development Shannon Currier to discuss the company’s #KeeponTruckin social media campaign. #KeeponTruckin is focused on celebrating professional drivers as front-line heroes for our country. As the podcast details, the #KeeponTruckin campaign will also serve as a fundraiser for SCF. In addition to the interview with Charles, Shannon talks with PodWheels Executive Producer Greg Thompson about the adjustments SCF made as an organization to address the COVID-19 National Emergency.
Episode 2, A Look At The Value of Financial Planning
Do you have a financial plan in place? Are you ready for those “rainy days,” and the unexpected circumstances that can cost you extra money? This episode of SCF’s Highway To Hope Podcast is dedicated to understanding the value of good financial planning and what it can mean for professional drivers. SCF Director of Philanthropy and Development serves as your host. Shannon is joined on the podcast by Greg Thompson, the Executive Producer of the PodWheels Network. Shannon and Greg will be interviewing Colton Lawrence, the CEO of Equinox Business Solutions, discussing how to prepare for unexpected expenses and how to address situations where you encounter debt. They will also be speaking with Danny and Cindy George. Veteran team drivers who share some very effective best practices for saving money while you are on the road.
Episode 1, Welcome To SCF's Highway To Hope Podcast
In this debut edition of the Highway to Hope podcast, we’ll be talking to Shannon Currier, the Director of Philanthropy & Development for the St. Christopher Truckers Relief Fund. PodWheels Network Executive Producer Greg Thompson talked with Shannon on a range of topics. During their discussion, Shannon provides listeners with an overview of SCF and its mission while highlighting the organization’s key initiatives. Shannon also notes SCF’s many achievements during 2019, and she looks ahead to what SCF is seeking to accomplish during 2020.
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