Society & Culture
Leisure
Merkel Media
Brian Merkel and Brian Shipper host conversations with people that drive for a living as they share their wild and crazy experiences from the road. Becoming stranded, bad storms, weird hitchhikers, saving someone from an accident, seeing UFOs, and so much more! If you've experienced it, Brian and Shipper want to talk about it!
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15/01/2025

245: Peanut Butter Roads

 In this episode of Hammer Lane Legends, hosts Brian Merkel, Brian Schipper, and Mike Dre chat with Luanne, a trailblazing female trucker, about her journey through the trucking industry. Luanne candidly shares her experiences as a woman in a male-dominated field, from navigating discrimination and life on the road to overcoming a life-threatening truck fire. She reflects on her transition back into trucking after a hiatus, touching on training challenges, maintaining her CDL, and the evolution of the industry. With stories of resilience, camaraderie, and empowerment, this episode offers a compelling look at the triumphs and trials of life behind the wheel. Support The Show KEEP US FUELED: buymeacoffee.com/hammerlane Gear: https://www.hammerlanelegends.com/gear Share Your Stories LEAVE A VOICEMAIL: 515-585-MERK(6375) EMAIL US YOUR STORIES: [email protected] Website: www.hammerlanelegends.com Follow The Show YouTube: www.youtube.com/channel/UC5TWlB5Yqx8JlQr3p3bkkMg Facebook: www.facebook.com/hammerlanelegends Facebook Fan Group: www.facebook.com/groups/hll Instagram Desktop: www.instagram.com/hammerlanelegends Instagram Mobile: @hammerlanelegends Twitter Desktop: www.twitter.com/HLLPodcast Twitter Mobile: @HLLpodcast Follow The Team Brian Merkel Facebook: www.facebook.com/brian.merkel.94 Instagram Desktop: www.instagram.com/brianmerkeloffical/ Instagram Mobile: @brianmerkelofficial Produced by: Jason York Follow Jason on Instagram @jyorkofficial 
1h 36m
27/12/2024

Back It UP | 204: Giant Load Chaos

 In this week's episode, Brian and Brian are joined by Kyle. Kyle shares his transition from a firefighter and welder to becoming a third-generation truck driver, driven by a family tradition of trucking. He recounts several extraordinary experiences on the road, including navigating through a blizzard with the assumption that, as a Canadian, he could handle the snow better than most, outmaneuvering a tornado in Texas, and the unique challenges of hauling oversized loads across various states. Kyle's stories highlight the unpredictable and often dangerous aspects of truck driving, especially when dealing with extreme weather, oversized loads, and the intricacies of navigating through different state regulations and encounters with law enforcement and other road users. His tales reflect the camaraderie, skills, and resilience required in the trucking industry, as well as a deep sense of pride and tradition in his work. Support The Show KEEP US FUELED: buymeacoffee.com/hammerlane Gear: https://www.hammerlanelegends.com/gear Share Your Stories LEAVE A VOICEMAIL: 515-585-MERK(6375) EMAIL US YOUR STORIES: [email protected] Website: www.hammerlanelegends.com Follow The Show YouTube: www.youtube.com/channel/UC5TWlB5Yqx8JlQr3p3bkkMg Facebook: www.facebook.com/hammerlanelegends Facebook Fan Group: www.facebook.com/groups/hll Instagram Desktop: www.instagram.com/hammerlanelegends Instagram Mobile: @hammerlanelegends Twitter Desktop: www.twitter.com/HLLPodcast Twitter Mobile: @HLLpodcast Follow The Team Brian Merkel Facebook: www.facebook.com/brian.merkel.94 Instagram Desktop: www.instagram.com/brianmerkeloffical/ Instagram Mobile: @brianmerkelofficial Produced by: Jack Merkel Follow Jack on Instagram @jack_theproducer 
1h 14m
20/12/2024

Back It Up | 171: The Legend of Bronco

 In the wild world of trucking tales, today's star of the show is none other than Tim, the legendary Bronco-wrangling trucker! Tim's trucking journey began before he even had a proper driver's license. It's like he was maneuvering big rigs before he could properly maneuver a bicycle. He's the kind of guy who, when handed the keys to a truck for the first time, handled it like he was diffusing a bomb. Picture Tim, the Bronco Whisperer, gingerly creeping up a dirt road, clutching first gear for dear life. No one's sure if the truck was terrified of him or he was terrified of the truck, but that's how the legend of Tim began. And let's not forget his city-driving days, which are basically like a demolition derby meets an action movie. Tim braved New York City like a champ, dodging trigger-happy cops and truck-hungry carjackers. There's even a rumor that Tim single-handedly gave traffic a lesson in patience and terror simultaneously. But it wasn't just mayhem; Tim's been through more terminals than a keyboard at a computer store, driving from one end of creation to another. Seriously, he's got road stories that make an epic novel look like a short story. Tim's been trucking since before it was cool, before truckers were VIPs of the road. He's the OG trucker, the man who's seen it all and still keeps rolling on. So, hats off to Tim, the living, breathing embodiment of trucking tales and the king of the Bronco-busting road! KEEP US FUELED: buymeacoffee.com/hammerlane EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS FOOD: www.preparewithhll.com LEAVE A VOICEMAIL: 515-585-MERK(6375) EMAIL US YOUR STORIES: [email protected] Website: www.hammerlanelegends.com Gear: https://www.hammerlanelegends.com/gear YouTube: www.youtube.com/channel/UC5TWlB5Yqx8JlQr3p3bkkMg Facebook: www.facebook.com/hammerlanelegends Instagram Desktop: www.instagram.com/hammerlanelegends Instagram Mobile: @hammerlanelegends Twitter Desktop: www.twitter.com/HLLPodcast Twitter Mobile: @HLLpodcast Produced by: Jack Merkel Follow Jack on Instagram @jack_theproducer 
1h 18m
11/12/2024

240: Challenging The Odds

 In this episode of Hammer Lane Legends, hosts Brian, Scott, and Brian catch up with Garrett Taylor, who shares life-changing updates, including the birth of his second child and his leap into entrepreneurship with a lawn care business. Garrett recounts humorous delivery stories, including an unforgettable visit to a nudist colony, while reflecting on the challenges of starting a business amidst hurricanes and rising healthcare costs. The conversation dives into parenting, bilingual kids, and the evolving dynamics of friendships, touching on societal changes in NASCAR, automation in trucking, and the complexities of immigration policies. With humor and heartfelt insights, the episode explores resilience, adaptation, and the balance between work and family life. Support The Show KEEP US FUELED: buymeacoffee.com/hammerlane Gear: https://www.hammerlanelegends.com/gear Share Your Stories LEAVE A VOICEMAIL: 515-585-MERK(6375) EMAIL US YOUR STORIES: [email protected] Website: www.hammerlanelegends.com Follow The Show YouTube: www.youtube.com/channel/UC5TWlB5Yqx8JlQr3p3bkkMg Facebook: www.facebook.com/hammerlanelegends Facebook Fan Group: www.facebook.com/groups/hll Instagram Desktop: www.instagram.com/hammerlanelegends Instagram Mobile: @hammerlanelegends Twitter Desktop: www.twitter.com/HLLPodcast Twitter Mobile: @HLLpodcast Follow The Team Brian Merkel Facebook: www.facebook.com/brian.merkel.94 Instagram Desktop: www.instagram.com/brianmerkeloffical/ Instagram Mobile: @brianmerkelofficial Produced by: Jason York Follow Jason on Instagram @jyorkofficial 
1h 13m
06/12/2024

Back It Up | 127: FLIPPED!

 In episode 127: FLIPPED!; Shipper and Brian have a great conversation with Jeremy, a line haul driver. Jeremy started out running his own company as a "Hotshot Hauler", hooking up anything he could haul to his pickup truck and hitting the road. He ran in this line of work for over a year until it came to an abrupt end. From there he bounced between a few other gigs, before landing on his feet as a dockworker in an LTL company. Once he was around the big rigs, he attained his CDL, and worked his way to the line haul position he has today. All of Jeremy's experience in his different positions have helped him to get to where he is today, in one of the best industries to be a part of. He shared with us the life lessons he's learned along the way, as well as the many things he's seen on the road in that time. The guys thoroughly enjoyed this conversation, and we know you will too! So sit back, relax, and enjoy the show! KEEP US FUELED: buymeacoffee.com/hammerlane EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS FOOD: www.preparewithhll.com LEAVE A VOICEMAIL: 515-585-MERK(6375) EMAIL US YOUR STORIES: [email protected] Website: www.hammerlanelegends.com Gear: https://www.hammerlanelegends.com/gear YouTube: www.youtube.com/channel/UC5TWlB5Yqx8JlQr3p3bkkMg Facebook: www.facebook.com/hammerlanelegends Instagram Desktop: www.instagram.com/hammerlanelegends Instagram Mobile: @hammerlanelegends Twitter Desktop: www.twitter.com/HLLPodcast Twitter Mobile: @HLLpodcast Produced by: Jack Merkel Follow Jack on Instagram @jack_theproducer 
1h 6m
29/11/2024

Back It Up| 193: Escape From New York

 In this week's episode, Brian and Shipper are joined by Zach, a former New Yorker turned Cincinnati resident. He explains his decision to leave New York and what led him to Cincinnati. He shares personal anecdotes about his life changes post-move, including unexpected fertility success. The episode takes a light-hearted turn with Zach recounting his transition into the trucking industry, starting from his initial dissatisfaction with his previous job to enrolling in a trucking school, and eventually embracing life on the road. Zach then shares stories from his trucking experiences, highlighting the unique aspects of different states like Ohio and New York, and the camaraderie among truck drivers. So sit back, relax, and enjoy the show! Support The Show KEEP US FUELED: buymeacoffee.com/hammerlane EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS FOOD: www.preparewithhll.com Gear: https://www.hammerlanelegends.com/gear Share Your Stories LEAVE A VOICEMAIL: 515-585-MERK(6375) EMAIL US YOUR STORIES: [email protected] Website: www.hammerlanelegends.com Follow The Show YouTube: www.youtube.com/channel/UC5TWlB5Yqx8JlQr3p3bkkMg Facebook: www.facebook.com/hammerlanelegends Facebook Fan Group: www.facebook.com/groups/hll Instagram Desktop: www.instagram.com/hammerlanelegends Instagram Mobile: @hammerlanelegends Twitter Desktop: www.twitter.com/HLLPodcast Twitter Mobile: @HLLpodcast Follow The Team Brian Merkel Facebook: www.facebook.com/brian.merkel.94 Instagram Desktop: www.instagram.com/brianmerkeloffical/ Instagram Mobile: @brianmerkelofficial Produced by: Jack Merkel Follow Jack on Instagram @jack_theproducer 
2h 1m
15/11/2024

Back It Up | 128: Born to Run

In episode 128: Born to Run; the guys sit down in studio with Nevin Sr., a retired truck driver and man of many hats! Nevin had been in and around trucks since he was 5 years old, and his dad would take him along to the butcher's. There Nevin would enjoy the old, beaten-up, truck behind the butcher's shop, pretending to shift gears and drive all over the world. From that point on he had a hankering for the open road. As time went on, he got a job on a farm and then graduated into longer distances. From Dallas to New England, Nevin covered thousands of miles and eventually was able to accomplish a dream of his, and own a farm. All of this didn't come without some unbelievable stories along the way. He's had failed brakes, Cabbage Patch nightmares, and even a wild hurricane experience. Needless to say, Nevin has seen it all, or at least more than most, and we enjoyed the time spent sitting down with him. So sit back, relax and enjoy this incredible conversation with Nevin Sr. KEEP US FUELED: buymeacoffee.com/hammerlane EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS FOOD: www.preparewithhll.com LEAVE A VOICEMAIL: 515-585-MERK(6375) EMAIL US YOUR STORIES: [email protected] Website: www.hammerlanelegends.com Gear: https://www.hammerlanelegends.com/gear YouTube: www.youtube.com/channel/UC5TWlB5Yqx8JlQr3p3bkkMg Facebook: www.facebook.com/hammerlanelegends Instagram Desktop: www.instagram.com/hammerlanelegends Instagram Mobile: @hammerlanelegends Twitter Desktop: www.twitter.com/HLLPodcast Twitter Mobile: @HLLpodcast Produced by: Jack Merkel Follow Jack on Instagram @jack_theproducer
1h 28m
06/11/2024

235: Haunted Highways

 In this episode of Hammer Lane Legends, hosts Brian Merkel and Mike Dre engage in a captivating conversation with Emilio Flores, a seasoned truck driver with over 32 years of experience. Emilio shares his journey into the trucking industry, influenced by his family's legacy, and reflects on the significant changes he has witnessed over the years, including the evolution of regulations and the shift from manual to automatic trucks. The discussion also delves into memorable experiences on the road, the challenges faced by truck drivers today, and the camaraderie that exists within the trucking community. In this conversation, Emilio Flores shares his experiences as a truck driver, including eerie encounters during his night shifts. He recounts a chilling story about a ghostly milker at a dairy farm and reflects on the cycle of life and death. Emilio also discusses his transition from hauling feed to trucking, finding joy in his work, and the challenges of driving in heavy traffic. The conversation highlights the supernatural elements of the trucking industry and the camaraderie among drivers. In this engaging conversation, Emilio Flores and the Hammer Lane Legends discuss various aspects of driving and trucking, including the challenges of navigating traffic, the differences between East Coast and West Coast driving styles, the impending retirement of truck drivers, and the ongoing debate between diesel and electric vehicles. They also touch on the regulatory landscape affecting truck drivers and the responsibilities they bear on the road. In this conversation, Emilio Flores and the hosts discuss the disconnect between management and truck drivers, emphasizing the need for better education and awareness regarding truck safety. They explore the challenges of autonomous driving technology and the importance of government regulation in the trucking industry. The conversation highlights the human element in trucking and the necessity for drivers and the public to understand the complexities of operating large vehicles on the road.  Support The Show KEEP US FUELED: buymeacoffee.com/hammerlane Gear: https://www.hammerlanelegends.com/gear Share Your Stories LEAVE A VOICEMAIL: 515-585-MERK(6375) EMAIL US YOUR STORIES: [email protected] Website: www.hammerlanelegends.com Follow The Show YouTube: www.youtube.com/channel/UC5TWlB5Yqx8JlQr3p3bkkMg Facebook: www.facebook.com/hammerlanelegends Facebook Fan Group: www.facebook.com/groups/hll Instagram Desktop: www.instagram.com/hammerlanelegends Instagram Mobile: @hammerlanelegends Twitter Desktop: www.twitter.com/HLLPodcast Twitter Mobile: @HLLpodcast Follow The Team Brian Merkel Facebook: www.facebook.com/brian.merkel.94 Instagram Desktop: www.instagram.com/brianmerkeloffical/ Instagram Mobile: @brianmerkelofficial Produced by: Jason York Follow Jason on Instagram @jyorkofficial 
1h 33m
18/10/2024

Back It Up| 198: Snow Way Out But Through

 In this week's episode, we are joined by Joe, a seasoned truck driver with a wealth of stories from his decades on the road. From harrowing blizzards to the unique camaraderie found within the trucking community, Joe shares insights into the life of a trucker, including the challenges and unexpected moments that define this profession. His journey through various facets of the trucking industry, from delivering pizzas for Papa John's to navigating the complexities of hauling gas, paints a vivid picture of the resilience and adaptability required in this line of work. Alongside tales of close calls and the importance of quick thinking, Joe's anecdotes highlight the blend of humor and dedication essential to thriving on the open road. This episode not only sheds light on the trucking industry's realities but also celebrates the spirit of those who keep our goods moving, no matter the weather or the hour. Support The Show KEEP US FUELED: buymeacoffee.com/hammerlane Gear: https://www.hammerlanelegends.com/gear Share Your Stories LEAVE A VOICEMAIL: 515-585-MERK(6375) EMAIL US YOUR STORIES: [email protected] Website: www.hammerlanelegends.com Follow The Show YouTube: www.youtube.com/channel/UC5TWlB5Yqx8JlQr3p3bkkMg Facebook: www.facebook.com/hammerlanelegends Facebook Fan Group: www.facebook.com/groups/hll Instagram Desktop: www.instagram.com/hammerlanelegends Instagram Mobile: @hammerlanelegends Twitter Desktop: www.twitter.com/HLLPodcast Twitter Mobile: @HLLpodcast Follow The Team Brian Merkel Facebook: www.facebook.com/brian.merkel.94 Instagram Desktop: www.instagram.com/brianmerkeloffical/ Instagram Mobile: @brianmerkelofficial Produced by: Jack Merkel Follow Jack on Instagram @jack_theproducer  
2h 15m
30/08/2024

BACK IT UP |189: Mudslides and Jackknifes

In this week's episode, the guys are joined by Ken, a retired truck driver with over 30 years of experience on the road. Despite facing challenges like power outages and chilly weather, Ken shares his experiences hauling a variety of loads, from agriculture and frozen meat to heavy equipment. He sheds light on the unique challenges of transporting oversized loads and tells a gripping story of maneuvering a loaded tanker with no baffles. Ken's anecdotes include encounters with wildlife, the dangers of reckless drivers, and the adrenaline-pumping "beaver slide" technique used in California's logging roads. Join us for a fascinating conversation about life on the road and the unexpected twists that keep truckers like Ken on their toes. Angel Tree Farms: Email: [email protected] Website: angeltreefarms.org Donation: https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/donation-form/79f8905a-44ac-4844-9724-ca32d6a0eebf Support The Show KEEP US FUELED: buymeacoffee.com/hammerlane EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS FOOD: www.preparewithhll.com Gear: https://www.hammerlanelegends.com/gear Share Your Stories LEAVE A VOICEMAIL: 515-585-MERK(6375) EMAIL US YOUR STORIES: [email protected] Website: www.hammerlanelegends.com Follow The Show YouTube: www.youtube.com/channel/UC5TWlB5Yqx8JlQr3p3bkkMg Facebook: www.facebook.com/hammerlanelegends Facebook Fan Group: www.facebook.com/groups/hll Instagram Desktop: www.instagram.com/hammerlanelegends Instagram Mobile: @hammerlanelegends Twitter Desktop: www.twitter.com/HLLPodcast Twitter Mobile: @HLLpodcast Follow The Team Brian Merkel Facebook: www.facebook.com/brian.merkel.94 Instagram Desktop: www.instagram.com/brianmerkeloffical/ Instagram Mobile: @brianmerkelofficial Produced by: Jason York Follow Jason on Instagram @jyorkofficial
1h 24m
21/08/2024

224: 57-Foot Giants

In this episode, the guys are joined by guest host Scott VanHalken to hear the wild stories from Andrew Lugo, a seasoned truck driver navigating 57-foot trailers through California’s toughest roads. They dive into the unique challenges of driving these longer rigs, the mental and physical demands of the job, and Andrew's journey from working in his father's small business to his current role in food service delivery. Andrew shares his experiences with trucking competitions, the pride in keeping America fed, and the struggles with low wages and freight rates. The conversation is packed with insights on the changing landscape of trucking, the importance of experience, and the need for better training for new drivers. Support The Show KEEP US FUELED: buymeacoffee.com/hammerlane Gear: https://www.hammerlanelegends.com/gear Share Your Stories LEAVE A VOICEMAIL: 515-585-MERK(6375) EMAIL US YOUR STORIES: [email protected] Website: www.hammerlanelegends.com Follow The Show YouTube: www.youtube.com/channel/UC5TWlB5Yqx8JlQr3p3bkkMg Facebook: www.facebook.com/hammerlanelegends Facebook Fan Group: www.facebook.com/groups/hll Instagram Desktop: www.instagram.com/hammerlanelegends Instagram Mobile: @hammerlanelegends Twitter Desktop: www.twitter.com/HLLPodcast Twitter Mobile: @HLLpodcast Follow The Team Brian Merkel Facebook: www.facebook.com/brian.merkel.94 Instagram Desktop: www.instagram.com/brianmerkeloffical/ Instagram Mobile: @brianmerkelofficial Produced by: Jason York Follow Jason on Instagram @jyorkofficial
1h 18m
07/08/2024

222: Borderline Madness

In this episode of Hammer Lane Legends, Brian Merkel and Brian Shipper chat with Zach, who shares wild tales from the road. They discuss  a misunderstood yard dog incident and a nerve-wracking U-turn near the Mexican border. Zach recounts his experiences as a hazmat tanker driver, emphasizing safety protocols, and recalls mishaps like a bridge collapse in Baltimore, a resin tanker spill, and trailer mix-ups. The hosts also share their own funny and nerve-wracking moments, like getting stuck in intersections and navigating hilly terrain. The episode wraps up with a lighthearted discussion on impressions and dry counties, packed with humor and unique trucker experiences. Support The Show KEEP US FUELED: buymeacoffee.com/hammerlane Gear: https://www.hammerlanelegends.com/gear Share Your Stories LEAVE A VOICEMAIL: 515-585-MERK(6375) EMAIL US YOUR STORIES: [email protected] Website: www.hammerlanelegends.com Follow The Show YouTube: www.youtube.com/channel/UC5TWlB5Yqx8JlQr3p3bkkMg Facebook: www.facebook.com/hammerlanelegends Facebook Fan Group: www.facebook.com/groups/hll Instagram Desktop: www.instagram.com/hammerlanelegends Instagram Mobile: @hammerlanelegends Twitter Desktop: www.twitter.com/HLLPodcast Twitter Mobile: @HLLpodcast Follow The Team Brian Merkel Facebook: www.facebook.com/brian.merkel.94 Instagram Desktop: www.instagram.com/brianmerkeloffical/ Instagram Mobile: @brianmerkelofficial Produced by: Jason York Follow Jason on Instagram @jyorkofficial
1h 35m