Episodes

  • #63 Holiday Stories from the Road and Home
    Dec 24 2024

    What’s better than swapping holiday stories with friends who just get it? In this festive episode, the Enjoying Life OTRteam is sharing their favorite Christmas memories—whether from childhood, precious family time, or the open road. It’s a chance to connect, reflect, and celebrate the season together.

    Your hosts Cindy Tunstall and Malinda Fox-Wellington are joined by our "Roadie and Guide on the Side" Dino Grigoriadis, along with our fun-loving team: Jess Graham, Joe Lee, Brian Wilson, and Gemma Ford. We’re taking a break to laugh, reminisce, and wish you all a "Happy Holidays and Happy New Year!"

    Tune in to feel a little holiday magic, trucker style—it’s a celebration of the hardworking drivers who make every mile count and every holiday brighter. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from all of us at Enjoying Life OTR!

    Send us a text

    Enjoying Life OTR: conversations that inspire curiosity, adventure, and resilience. We're honoring drivers, sharing their adventures and becoming healthier truckers.

    Stay tuned to discover creative life hacks and practical strategies for enhancing our well-being and making the most of our time on the road. So many exciting things are happening in our community, and we are grateful that you are a part of it. Welcome to Enjoying Life OTR!

    Join the Movement! See the sights, enjoy the food, take the pic and share with our community! Make the most of the opportunity and share ways to save money doing it!

    You are invited to share your journey with other drivers who are Enjoying Life OTR.


    Join "Enjoying Life OTR" Facebook Group:
    https://www.facebook.com/share/RstyK3SgWaKLm9Qf/?mibextid=lOuIew

    #HealthierTruckers
    #EnjoyingLifeOTR

    If you have questions or would like information about being on our podcast, contact our hosts:
    Cindy Tunstall: EnjoyingLifeOTR@gmail.com
    Malinda Fox Wellington: Malinda@NomadTLC.org



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    34 mins
  • #62 Navigating the AI Landscape: Practical Tips for Truckers
    Dec 15 2024

    Imagine having a co-pilot for your trucking journey, not made of flesh and bone, but of circuits and code. Join Cindy Tunstall and Melinda Fox Wellington as they recount their own paths from skepticism to reliance on artificial intelligence. They've invited AI into their lives as a trusty assistant, helping with everything from composing emails to planning meals and even crafting holiday jingles. This episode promises to enhance your understanding of AI, showcasing how it's not just a novelty but an integrated part of everyday life on and off the road.

    Ever wondered how AI can supercharge your communication skills? We unlock the potential of tools like ChatGPT, illustrating their unique ability to remember conversations and provide tailored support for truck drivers. From practical tips for crafting effective emails to maximizing productivity in podcast production, the hosts share real-life success stories. They emphasize the importance of verifying AI-provided information while spotlighting its role as a creative problem-solver—be it negotiating offers or brainstorming menu ideas for events.

    Cindy and Melinda don't shy away from discussing AI's limitations alongside its benefits. By adjusting settings and learning effective prompting, they tailor AI interactions to reflect personal values and preferences, transforming AI from a passive assistant into an insightful collaborator. The episode also covers the ethical and legal considerations of AI, urging caution and critical engagement with its outputs. As a delightful finale, enjoy a festive tune born from an AI collaboration, celebrating the holiday spirit and the vibrant journey of truckers everywhere.

    Send us a text

    Enjoying Life OTR: conversations that inspire curiosity, adventure, and resilience. We're honoring drivers, sharing their adventures and becoming healthier truckers.

    Stay tuned to discover creative life hacks and practical strategies for enhancing our well-being and making the most of our time on the road. So many exciting things are happening in our community, and we are grateful that you are a part of it. Welcome to Enjoying Life OTR!

    Join the Movement! See the sights, enjoy the food, take the pic and share with our community! Make the most of the opportunity and share ways to save money doing it!

    You are invited to share your journey with other drivers who are Enjoying Life OTR.


    Join "Enjoying Life OTR" Facebook Group:
    https://www.facebook.com/share/RstyK3SgWaKLm9Qf/?mibextid=lOuIew

    #HealthierTruckers
    #EnjoyingLifeOTR

    If you have questions or would like information about being on our podcast, contact our hosts:
    Cindy Tunstall: EnjoyingLifeOTR@gmail.com
    Malinda Fox Wellington: Malinda@NomadTLC.org



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    1 hr and 12 mins
  • #61 QUIT Smoking, Vaping the EASY Way with Wayne Spaulding
    Dec 1 2024

    What if quitting smoking, vaping or drinking could be as easy as flipping a switch in your brain? On Enjoying Life OTR, join us for a transformative conversation with Wayne Spaulding, who shares his compelling journey of overcoming addiction through the Alan Carr method. We unravel the misconceptions about addiction and discuss the idea that quitting doesn't have to be an arduous, painful process. With personal anecdotes and a touch of humor, Wayne and I explore the initial allure of smoking in youth and how it quickly spirals into a lifelong struggle.

    For those thinking about vaping as a safer alternative, think again. We explore the truth about nicotine withdrawal and the insidious nature of vaping, emphasizing the enduring psychological tug-of-war that often leads to relapse. Wayne's narrative offers hope and practical insights, as he recounts how the Alan Carr method helped him redefine his relationship with smoking and drinking. Even if you're not battling these habits yourself, the mindset shifts discussed provide valuable tools for personal growth and could be your key to a healthier, more fulfilling life.

    Throughout the episode, stories of success with Alan Carr's method shine a light on the power of changing one's mindset. Whether you're a truck driver like our featured guest or someone facing the pressures of life's demands, the insights shared in this conversation highlight the ease and empowerment of quitting without feeling deprived. A healthier lifestyle is within reach, and this episode serves as your guide to finding freedom from addiction and embracing a new perspective on what it means to truly enjoy life.

    Visit www.usa.allencarr.com to find more information about how to quit the easy way!

    Send us a text

    Enjoying Life OTR: conversations that inspire curiosity, adventure, and resilience. We're honoring drivers, sharing their adventures and becoming healthier truckers.

    Stay tuned to discover creative life hacks and practical strategies for enhancing our well-being and making the most of our time on the road. So many exciting things are happening in our community, and we are grateful that you are a part of it. Welcome to Enjoying Life OTR!

    Join the Movement! See the sights, enjoy the food, take the pic and share with our community! Make the most of the opportunity and share ways to save money doing it!

    You are invited to share your journey with other drivers who are Enjoying Life OTR.


    Join "Enjoying Life OTR" Facebook Group:
    https://www.facebook.com/share/RstyK3SgWaKLm9Qf/?mibextid=lOuIew

    #HealthierTruckers
    #EnjoyingLifeOTR

    If you have questions or would like information about being on our podcast, contact our hosts:
    Cindy Tunstall: EnjoyingLifeOTR@gmail.com
    Malinda Fox Wellington: Malinda@NomadTLC.org



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    1 hr and 7 mins
  • #60 Thankful for You: Every Mile, Every Day!
    Nov 28 2024

    In this special episode of Enjoying Life OTR, we celebrate YOU—our incredible drivers—with heartfelt messages from both four-wheelers and fellow truckers across the country. Tune in to hear touching tributes, genuine expressions of gratitude, and stories that highlight just how much you’re appreciated. Plus, we’ve curated a dynamic mix of music to make your listening experience even more enjoyable.

    This show is our way of saying thank you for your hard work, support, and friendship. You keep America moving, and we couldn’t be more grateful. Sit back, relax, and feel the appreciation—we made this just for you!

    Send us a text

    Enjoying Life OTR: conversations that inspire curiosity, adventure, and resilience. We're honoring drivers, sharing their adventures and becoming healthier truckers.

    Stay tuned to discover creative life hacks and practical strategies for enhancing our well-being and making the most of our time on the road. So many exciting things are happening in our community, and we are grateful that you are a part of it. Welcome to Enjoying Life OTR!

    Join the Movement! See the sights, enjoy the food, take the pic and share with our community! Make the most of the opportunity and share ways to save money doing it!

    You are invited to share your journey with other drivers who are Enjoying Life OTR.


    Join "Enjoying Life OTR" Facebook Group:
    https://www.facebook.com/share/RstyK3SgWaKLm9Qf/?mibextid=lOuIew

    #HealthierTruckers
    #EnjoyingLifeOTR

    If you have questions or would like information about being on our podcast, contact our hosts:
    Cindy Tunstall: EnjoyingLifeOTR@gmail.com
    Malinda Fox Wellington: Malinda@NomadTLC.org



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    1 hr and 1 min
  • #59 Pursuing the Trucking Dream: Joe Lee's Journey to Health and Happiness on the Road
    Nov 15 2024

    Have you ever wondered how a lifelong dream can blossom into a fulfilling career, even amidst life's challenges? Meet Joe Lee, a passionate trucker whose journey from carpentry to the open road is a testament to perseverance and transformation. Joe's heartfelt poem, Living the Dream, encapsulates his unwavering love for trucks—a passion ignited in his childhood and reignited in his 40s. Join us as Joe shares his story of overcoming personal losses and initial resistance to chase the trucking dream, proving that small, consistent steps can lead to big changes.

    Joe opens up about maintaining a healthy lifestyle on the road, highlighting challenges like DOT physicals and lifestyle adjustments. His candid discussion on managing blood pressure through better food choices and small changes offers practical insights for others navigating similar hurdles. By prioritizing home-cooked meals, Joe's approach underscores the mental and physical benefits of committing to healthier living, even in a demanding profession like trucking.

    Discover strategies for a healthier, happier life on the road, from reusable kitchenware to managing grocery shopping on the go. Joe's story resonates with anyone striving for long-term lifestyle improvements, emphasizing mindset shifts over rigid diets. Learn how a positive outlook and new motivations can sustain progress beyond initial goals. This episode inspires those eager to pursue dreams while embracing healthier choices, mile by mile, and finding joy in the journey.

    Joe Lee, a member of the Enjoying Life OTR Facebook group and a valued Lead Team member, reflects on the trucking community, encouraging others to pursue their goals.

    Living the Dream, a touching poem by Joe Lee, reflects the journey of rekindling a childhood passion:

    "Living the Dream" When I was a young boy eight, maybe nine I helped to fix a big truck that was down for a time, when the last bolt was tightened and the fluids were all filled. Then came the moment it was time for the key. The man in the shop said hey boy, and he tossed it on over to me. So I climbed in the cab and fired it up, with the hum of the motor, the smoke and the smell. I'll never forget it. I remember it well.

    As I sat there in the cab just holding the wheel, I thought to myself man, I love how I feel. I pretended to drive it with excitement and joy, and a dream came alive inside that young boy. Well, I've done many things in my life since that day, and although that dream faded, it never went away. Every time a rig passed me and rolled on its way, there was a voice in my head that said maybe someday. Well, here

    Send us a text

    Enjoying Life OTR: conversations that inspire curiosity, adventure, and resilience. We're honoring drivers, sharing their adventures and becoming healthier truckers.

    Stay tuned to discover creative life hacks and practical strategies for enhancing our well-being and making the most of our time on the road. So many exciting things are happening in our community, and we are grateful that you are a part of it. Welcome to Enjoying Life OTR!

    Join the Movement! See the sights, enjoy the food, take the pic and share with our community! Make the most of the opportunity and share ways to save money doing it!

    You are invited to share your journey with other drivers who are Enjoying Life OTR.


    Join "Enjoying Life OTR" Facebook Group:
    https://www.facebook.com/share/RstyK3SgWaKLm9Qf/?mibextid=lOuIew

    #HealthierTruckers
    #EnjoyingLifeOTR

    If you have questions or would like information about being on our podcast, contact our hosts:
    Cindy Tunstall: EnjoyingLifeOTR@gmail.com
    Malinda Fox Wellington: Malinda@NomadTLC.org



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    47 mins
  • #58 Surviving the Road: Stress Management Tips Every Driver Should Know with Atara Parkinson
    Nov 1 2024

    Long hours, tight schedules, and unpredictable situations—truckers face these challenges daily, often leading to stress, decision fatigue, and sleepless nights. This episode of Enjoying Life OTR brings in professional counselor Atara Parkinson, who offers practical, science-backed tools to help you manage the mental load of life on the road. Learn quick techniques like the physiological sigh and peripheral vision exercises—simple methods you can implement today to calm your mind and stay focused.

    Trauma can build up over time, especially after facing tough situations on the highway. Atara helps us recognize the hidden impact of unprocessed events and how they can affect your overall health. She shares strategies like brainspotting and talk therapy to help drivers identify trauma triggers and find a path to recovery, even amidst the challenges of the road.

    Finding the right support shouldn’t be another stressor. In this episode, we break down how to find someone who truly understands your unique lifestyle, emphasizing the importance of a supportive, non-judgmental relationship. Plus, discover the power of community support and self-advocacy in the healing process. Whether you’re a long-haul driver or anyone seeking ways to manage stress and trauma, this episode offers valuable insights for a healthier, more balanced life.

    Atara Parkinson is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Certified Integrative Practitioner. Her passion is to help clients in the mind/body connection. She loves watching the physical body and mind align to impact mental health through nutrition and integrative medicine. She supports her clients in creating sustainable vision for their lives. The goal of her work is to empower clients on gaining clarity to obtain holistic balance in mind, body and soul. She believes that a strong therapeutic connection is vital in creating a space for healing to take place. Her approach is to create a safe, compassionate, and non-judgmental space for clients to explore their lives and beliefs. She is a member of the Enjoying Life OTR Facebook group and can be reached via email ataraparkinson@protonmail.com if we have any questions or concerns. She is passionate about helping others on their journey.

    Send us a text

    Enjoying Life OTR: conversations that inspire curiosity, adventure, and resilience. We're honoring drivers, sharing their adventures and becoming healthier truckers.

    Stay tuned to discover creative life hacks and practical strategies for enhancing our well-being and making the most of our time on the road. So many exciting things are happening in our community, and we are grateful that you are a part of it. Welcome to Enjoying Life OTR!

    Join the Movement! See the sights, enjoy the food, take the pic and share with our community! Make the most of the opportunity and share ways to save money doing it!

    You are invited to share your journey with other drivers who are Enjoying Life OTR.


    Join "Enjoying Life OTR" Facebook Group:
    https://www.facebook.com/share/RstyK3SgWaKLm9Qf/?mibextid=lOuIew

    #HealthierTruckers
    #EnjoyingLifeOTR

    If you have questions or would like information about being on our podcast, contact our hosts:
    Cindy Tunstall: EnjoyingLifeOTR@gmail.com
    Malinda Fox Wellington: Malinda@NomadTLC.org



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    47 mins
  • #57 Behind the Wheel: Accidents, Trauma, and Resilience
    Oct 15 2024

    Two Life-Changing Moments on the Road: How Robert Pound Overcame Unimaginable Tragedy
    In this heartfelt episode, seasoned trucker Robert Pound opens up about the life-altering impact of two devastating accidents, sharing his story of resilience and strength with Cindy Tunstall, host of Enjoying Life OTR. Robert’s journey offers a powerful reminder that we often have no idea what others are enduring, a lesson that deeply moved Cindy. Together, they explore the hidden struggles of life behind the wheel and the profound sense of community that sustains drivers through tough times.

    The conversation delves into the evolution of the trucking industry, from the camaraderie-filled days at classic truck stops like the Iron Skillet to the structured routines introduced by new technologies like electronic logging devices. Cindy, a newer face in trucking, and Robert, with over two decades of experience, share their unique perspectives on these changes and what they mean for today's drivers.

    Beyond the challenges, this episode highlights the power of mentorship and the critical role of community. Cindy and Robert tackle misconceptions about road safety, the importance of proper training, and the dynamics of accidents involving four-wheelers. Their discussion reveals how the support of fellow drivers can be key to adapting safely to new technology and staying grounded during difficult moments.

    This episode is not just about adversity; it’s about finding joy and building a healthier lifestyle on the road. Cindy and Robert share creative tips for staying active, accessing nutritious meals, and engaging with supportive online communities. Through stories of mentorship and shared experiences, they celebrate the strength and resilience of truckers everywhere—reminding us that for many, trucking is more than just a job; it’s a way of life.

    Send us a text

    Enjoying Life OTR: conversations that inspire curiosity, adventure, and resilience. We're honoring drivers, sharing their adventures and becoming healthier truckers.

    Stay tuned to discover creative life hacks and practical strategies for enhancing our well-being and making the most of our time on the road. So many exciting things are happening in our community, and we are grateful that you are a part of it. Welcome to Enjoying Life OTR!

    Join the Movement! See the sights, enjoy the food, take the pic and share with our community! Make the most of the opportunity and share ways to save money doing it!

    You are invited to share your journey with other drivers who are Enjoying Life OTR.


    Join "Enjoying Life OTR" Facebook Group:
    https://www.facebook.com/share/RstyK3SgWaKLm9Qf/?mibextid=lOuIew

    #HealthierTruckers
    #EnjoyingLifeOTR

    If you have questions or would like information about being on our podcast, contact our hosts:
    Cindy Tunstall: EnjoyingLifeOTR@gmail.com
    Malinda Fox Wellington: Malinda@NomadTLC.org



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    1 hr and 4 mins
  • #56 Ben Grunenwald: Overcoming Adversity and Embracing Change
    Sep 30 2024

    What if your toughest challenges became the stepping stones to your greatest triumphs? Join us as we sit down with Ben Grunenwald, a remarkable figure in the trucking industry, who shares his incredible journey from hardship to success. From dropping out of high school and facing homelessness to becoming the youngest driver in his company, Ben's story is a testament to resilience and determination. Listen as he recounts his early fascination with trucking, inspired by his grandfather, and his rise through the ranks to become an expert in safety management.

    Ever wondered how a roadside breakdown could lead to an encounter with automotive legends? Ben takes us through his adventurous six years on the road, including a memorable breakdown near Barstow, California, that serendipitously led him to a Carroll Shelby car museum in Las Vegas. There, he met Michael Shelby and got a sneak peek at the unreleased Shelby Series 7. Beyond his professional adventures, Ben also shares a heartwarming tale of reconnecting and marrying a former girlfriend after 20 years apart, highlighting the unexpected twists and personal milestones that define a trucker's life.

    Curious about the future of the trucking industry? Ben delves into the rise of autonomous trucks and technological advancements shaping the field. Hear his thoughts on how these changes could impact drivers and the benefits they might bring. Learn about his transition from night shifts to higher education in criminal justice and supply chain management, all while maintaining a growth mindset and positive outlook. This episode is packed with practical strategies for personal and professional development, making it a must-listen for anyone in the trucking community or those interested in the evolving landscape of this essential industry.

    Send us a text

    Enjoying Life OTR: conversations that inspire curiosity, adventure, and resilience. We're honoring drivers, sharing their adventures and becoming healthier truckers.

    Stay tuned to discover creative life hacks and practical strategies for enhancing our well-being and making the most of our time on the road. So many exciting things are happening in our community, and we are grateful that you are a part of it. Welcome to Enjoying Life OTR!

    Join the Movement! See the sights, enjoy the food, take the pic and share with our community! Make the most of the opportunity and share ways to save money doing it!

    You are invited to share your journey with other drivers who are Enjoying Life OTR.


    Join "Enjoying Life OTR" Facebook Group:
    https://www.facebook.com/share/RstyK3SgWaKLm9Qf/?mibextid=lOuIew

    #HealthierTruckers
    #EnjoyingLifeOTR

    If you have questions or would like information about being on our podcast, contact our hosts:
    Cindy Tunstall: EnjoyingLifeOTR@gmail.com
    Malinda Fox Wellington: Malinda@NomadTLC.org



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    46 mins