‘Live From Exit 24’ marks one year on the air

The Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association’s live internet talk show dedicated to today’s trucking issues was started in July 2020 as a way to expand communication with members.

Since the launch of “Live From Exit 24,” an hourlong show that airs every other Wednesday on the organization’s YouTube channel and Facebook page, it has provided those on the road with an opportunity to voice their opinions, concerns and more.

“I can tell you we’ve learned a lot from hearing directly from members regarding what they’re seeing and hearing out on the road,” said Mike Matousek, director of state legislative affairs for OOIDA and host of ‘Live From Exit 24.’ “Quite frankly, I probably learn more from the drivers than they learn from me.”

As “Live From Exit 24” continues to evolve, Matousek provided a wish list of what he’d like to see in the future.

“I’d like to focus on issues that are important to drivers and carriers,” Matousek said. “We need to make the platform as user-friendly as possible. Ideally, we’d like more feedback from those that continue to tune in. Tell us what you like, what you don’t like, where we can improve, etc. At some point we’ll cover nonconsensual towing, and I think that will end up being my favorite whenever it takes place.”

A frequent panelist on the show, OOIDA Executive Vice President Lewie Pugh is happy with the how the first year has gone and said he hopes to keep building on listener interaction.

“I think we have some steady listeners as we continue to grow the show,” Pugh said. “My favorite shows have been discussing the PRO Act and AB5. We had a lot of participation from callers. I hope they have gotten some worthwhile information that can help them with their business.”

Incorporating more video is something Pugh said he would like to see down the road, but continuing to grow the show remains a priority.

“I’d like to hear more from members on what they would like to hear more of for topics on the show,” Pugh said. “If a time change is necessary to attract more listeners, that’s something we would explore.”

Those behind the scenes, including Barry Spillman, James Fetzer, Nate Kelly, Aaron Phillips, and Norita Taylor, have helped greatly in making the show what it is now, said Pugh.

“Live From Exit 24” is all about truck drivers and the trucking industry, so OOIDA wants to hear from those out on the road. Help OOIDA format future episodes by filling out the survey on the OOIDA Foundation website. And don’t forget to call 317-67-OOIDA (317-676-6432) at 11 a.m. Central every other Wednesday to be part of the show. LL