In this episode of 'More Than a Broker', Spot Co-Founder Andrew Elsener interviews Brian Schutt, an accidental entrepreneur who shares his journey from corporate America to starting a successful HVAC business, Homesense Heating and Cooling, and expanding to other business ventures. 

The conversation explores the challenges of entrepreneurship, the importance of hiring the right people, and the lessons learned from building a business from scratch. Schutt emphasizes the significance of persistence and the realities of navigating a competitive market. The discussion also touches on the concept of working "on" versus "in" the business and the necessity of embracing constraints as a catalyst for creativity and growth.  

The pair also discusses their journeys in building a brand centered on trust and integrity, the challenges of achieving a work-life balance as entrepreneurs, and the evolution of their business models. Elsener and Schutt share valuable insights for aspiring entrepreneurs, highlight common pitfalls to avoid, and reflect on Schutt's recent experiences navigating the sale process of his business. 

About Brian Schutt 
Brian is the Co-Founder of Homesense Heating and Cooling, a Co-Founder at Refinery 46, a Civic Renewal Fellow with the American Enterprise Institute, and a Board Member at Orr Fellowship and the StartedUP Foundation. Brian writes for the Indianapolis Business Journal and serves as the Innovation Advisor for the Wayfinders Impact Studio Cohort. 

10 Reasons to Listen 

• Elsener and Schutt recount the early days of their businesses, describing how the journey of entrepreneurship often starts unexpectedly. 
• Building a business requires persistence and adaptability. 
• Hear how hiring the right people is crucial for long-term success. 
• Working on the business is as important as working in it. 
• Navigating a competitive market requires a unique strategy 
• As successful entrepreneurs, Elsener and Schutt explain how crucial the need to test ideas in the market is before going all in 
• The importance of building a brand on the foundation of trust 
• A brand’s first customer is its team with a focus on their well-being 
• Schutt stresses the need for follow-through over time in order to retain employees 
• The duo discusses how the sales process can be educational and should be approached with clarity 

At Spot, we understand the vital role that up-to-date information plays in navigating the dynamic logistics market. Each month, we bring you a comprehensive logistics market update. We dive into the latest trends, challenges, and innovations shaping the logistics sector. Join us as we empower you with the knowledge needed to make informed decisions in this fast-paced industry.

Download Spot's May 2025 Market Update report: https://spotinc.com/news/logistics-market-update-may-2025/

Welcome back to More Than a Broker

In this conversation, Peter S. Goodman, the global economic correspondent for The New York Times, discusses his unexpected journey into writing about supply chains, the impact of globalization, and the lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic.

He explores the concepts of just-in-time and lean inventory, the role of the World Trade Organization, and the future of manufacturing and consumer awareness in a changing global landscape. The discussion also touches on the effects of climate change on global trade, particularly through the lens of the Panama Canal.

Goodman explains the complexities of global shipping, the impact of tariffs on American manufacturing, and the emerging role of India in the global supply chain. He highlights the challenges posed by current trade policies and the shift towards nearshoring and onshoring as companies seek to adapt to a changing economic landscape.

The discussion also touches on the interconnectedness of supply chains and the ripple effects of disruptions in one area affecting many others.

About Peter S. Goodman:
Peter S. Goodman is the global economic correspondent for The New York Times, based in New York. He appears regularly on The Daily podcast and major broadcast outlets like CBS News, CNN, the BBC, and MSNBC.

He was previously the Executive Global News and Business Editor of the Huffington Post, where he oversaw award-winning investigative, international, business, and technology reporting.

Goodman began his career as a feature writer in Japan before freelancing from Southeast Asia, based first in Manila and then in Jakarta. His first full-time newsroom job was in Alaska as a reporter at the Anchorage Daily News. He has reported from over 40 countries, including stints in conflict zones such as Iraq, Cambodia, Sudan, and East Timor.

Goodman is the author of three books, most recently HOW THE WORLD RAN OUT OF EVERYTHING: Inside the Global Supply Chain (HarperCollins 2024).

At Spot, we understand the vital role that up-to-date information plays in navigating the dynamic logistics market. Each month, we bring you a comprehensive logistics market update. We dive into the latest trends, challenges, and innovations shaping the logistics sector. Join us as we empower you with the knowledge needed to make informed decisions in this fast-paced industry.

Download our full April 2025 Market Update report at https://spotinc.com/news/logistics-market-update-april-2025/

Welcome back to More Than a Broker.

In this episode, Spot Co-founder Andrew Elsener hosts Ellen Voie, the Founder of Women In Trucking. Voie shares her journey from a background in broadcast journalism to becoming a significant figure in the trucking industry. She discusses her early experiences in transportation, the impact of deregulation, and the evolution of technology in the trucking industry.

Ellen also highlights her role in founding Women In Trucking, emphasizing the mission to encourage women's employment in the industry and address their obstacles. She touches on the challenges and opportunities for Women In Trucking, the importance of safety, and the changing perceptions of the industry.

Learn more about Women in Trucking at https://www.womenintrucking.org/ 

At Spot, we understand the vital role that up-to-date information plays in navigating the dynamic logistics market. Each month, we bring you a comprehensive logistics market update. We dive into the latest trends, challenges, and innovations shaping the logistics sector. Join us as we empower you with the knowledge needed to make informed decisions in this fast-paced industry.

Download our full March 2025 Market Update report at https://spotinc.com/news/logistics-market-update-march-2025/

Welcome back to More Than a Broker.

In this conversation, Spot Co-founder Andrew Elsener and Dr. Chris Caplice, Executive Director of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology’s Center for Transportation & Logistics and Chief Scientist at DAT Solutions, discuss the evolution of freight transportation, the importance of optimization in RFPs, and the dynamics of market visibility.

Chris shares insights from his unique journey from civil engineering to transportation, emphasizing the significance of consistency over volume in freight management. They explore the challenges of dynamic quoting, the efficacy of routing guides, and the impact of market volatility on shipping strategies.

The pair discuss the evolving landscape of freight management, emphasizing the shift towards dynamic solutions and the importance of relationships in transportation. They explore market trends and predictions for 2025, highlighting the impact of technology and education in supply chain management.

Andrew and Chris also discuss the industry's challenges and innovations, particularly the pandemic's effects on market dynamics.

At Spot, we understand the vital role that up-to-date information plays in navigating the dynamic logistics market. Each month, we bring you a comprehensive logistics market update. We dive into the latest trends, challenges, and innovations shaping the logistics sector. Join us as we empower you with the knowledge needed to make informed decisions in this fast-paced industry.

Download our full February 2025 Market Update report at https://spotinc.com/news/logistics-market-update-february-2025/

Welcome back to More Than a Broker.
 
 In this episode of 'More Than a Broker', Spot Co-founder Andrew Elsener engages in an in-depth chat with Transport Futures Founder and Principal Noël Perry to explore the evolution of the logistics and trucking sectors. 
 
The conversation covers the historical context of freight, the transformative effects of deregulation, the ongoing challenges of driver shortages, and the implications of political and regulatory changes on the freight market. 
 
The discussion also examines the role of technology, market dynamics, and future trends in the industry, emphasizing the need for shippers to adapt to a rapidly changing landscape. 

At Spot, we understand the vital role that up-to-date information plays in navigating the dynamic logistics market. Each month, we bring you a comprehensive logistics market update. We dive into the latest trends, challenges, and innovations shaping the logistics sector. Join us as we empower you with the knowledge needed to make informed decisions in this fast-paced industry.

Read and download our full December 2024 Logistics Market Update at https://spotinc.com/blog/logistics-market-update-december-2024/

Welcome back to More Than a Broker.

In this episode, Spot Co-founder Andrew Elsener sits down with DAT Freight & Analytics’s Chief of Analytics Ken Adamo for an in-depth chat about data collection for freight rate trending, market monitoring, and thoughts on what’s to come in the industry. 

Learn more about DAT at https://www.dat.com/

Welcome back to More Than a Broker.

In this episode, Spot Co-founder Andrew Elsener sits down with sales experts Jeff Hoffman and CeCe Aparo of Sell Hoffman for an engaging conversation about the duo's experiences, approaches, and the art of closing.

Listen as Jeff and CeCe provide tips for sales professionals at all levels on how to prospect, engage, and land a deal.

Learn more about Sell Hoffman: https://sellhoffman.com/about-us/

At Spot, we understand the vital role that up-to-date information plays in navigating the dynamic logistics market. Each month, we bring you a comprehensive logistics market update. We dive into the latest trends, challenges, and innovations shaping the logistics sector. Join us as we empower you with the knowledge needed to make informed decisions in this fast-paced industry.

This month, our logistics experts reflect on the peak season, provide a brief 2025 outlook, and more.

Read and download our full October 2024 Logistics Market Update at https://spotinc.com/blog/logistics-market-update-october-2024/

Welcome back to More Than a Broker.

In this episode, Spot Co-founder Andrew Elsener and Vice President of Operations Kreg Hunter sit down with attorney Craig Helmreich of Helmreich Law LLC for an in-depth conversation about navigating the complex world of transportation laws and regulations. 

Listen as Craig dives into his 20+ years of experience and gives real-world examples of how he helps protect his clients.

Learn more about Helmreich Law LLC: https://www.helmreichlaw.com/ 

At Spot, we understand the vital role that up-to-date information plays in navigating the dynamic logistics market. Each month, we bring you a comprehensive logistics market update. We dive into the latest trends, challenges, and innovations shaping the logistics sector. Join us as we empower you with the knowledge needed to make informed decisions in this fast-paced industry.

This month, our logistics experts reflect on the peak season, explore what's happening in the LTL space, and offer predictions of what's to come. 

Read and download our full August 2024 Logistics Market Update at https://spotinc.com/blog/logistics-market-update-august-2024/

Welcome back to More Than a Broker.

Listen as Spot Director of Technology Ben Garvin leads an in-depth discussion with Christoper Fielder, the Field Chief Technology Officer at Arctic Wolf. In this episode, the pair discuss:

• AI is a Powerful Tool, But Humans Remain Central: While AI excels at anomaly detection, human expertise is critical for interpreting data and responding effectively to threats. Businesses should leverage AI to enhance human capabilities, not replace them. 
• Shared Responsibility in the Cloud: Businesses share responsibility with cloud providers to secure data. Don’t rely solely on provider security features; actively monitor and secure your cloud resources. 
• IRPs and Breach Coaches are Essential: Develop an Incident Response Plan (IRP) to minimize damage from cyberattacks. Consider an IRP retainer for a faster and more effective response. Negotiate with attackers using breach coaches to reduce ransom demands and navigate legal complexities.

Learn more at https://arcticwolf.com/ 

Welcome back to More Than a Broker.

In this episode, Spot Co-founder Andrew Elsener leads an engaging conversation with the founder and owner of Brush Pass Research, Kevin Hill. The two chat about Hill's career, his motivation for starting Brush Pass Research, and the current market conditions, and offer a look into the future. 

At Spot, we understand the vital role that up-to-date information plays in navigating the dynamic logistics market. Each month, we bring you a comprehensive logistics market update. We dive into the latest trends, challenges, and innovations shaping the logistics sector. Join us as we empower you with the knowledge needed to make informed decisions in this fast-paced industry.

This month, our logistics experts take a deep dive into seasonality and offer predictions of what's to come. 

Read and download our full June 2024 Logistics Market Update at https://spotinc.com/blog/logistics-market-update-june-2024/

At Spot, we understand the vital role that up-to-date information plays in navigating the dynamic logistics market. Each month, we bring you a comprehensive logistics market update. We dive into the latest trends, challenges, and innovations shaping the logistics sector. Join us as we empower you with the knowledge needed to make informed decisions in this fast-paced industry.

Read and download our full May 2024 Logistics Market Update at https://spotinc.com/blog/logistics-market-update-may-2024/

Welcome back to More Than a Broker.

In this episode, Spot Vice President of Operations Kreg Hunter welcomes back Keith Lewis, Vice President of Operations of CargoNet, for an in-depth conversation about supply chain loss prevention, and how to handle double brokers targeting your freight.

Together, they explore critical information regarding:

• Double Broker Identification: Current tactics double brokers are using to target victims
• Loss Mitigation Strategies: Valuable insights are provided on how to respond to missing cargo situations effectively
• The Next Steps: Tips on how to effectively communicate with customers and law enforcement in the event your freight is stolen

At Spot, we understand the vital role that up-to-date information plays in navigating the dynamic logistics market. Each month, we bring you a comprehensive logistics market update. We dive into the latest trends, challenges, and innovations shaping the logistics sector. Join us as we empower you with the knowledge needed to make informed decisions in this fast-paced industry.

Read and download our full April 2024 Logistics Market Update at https://spotinc.com/blog/logistics-market-update-april-2024/

At Spot, we understand the vital role that up-to-date information plays in navigating the dynamic logistics market. Each month, we bring you a comprehensive logistics market update. We dive into the latest trends, challenges, and innovations shaping the logistics sector. Join us as we empower you with the knowledge needed to make informed decisions in this fast-paced industry.

Read and download our full March 2024 Logistics Market Update at https://spotinc.com/blog/logistics-market-update-march-2024/

Welcome back to More Than a Broker.

In this episode, Spot Vice President of Operations Kreg Hunter leads a dynamic discussion with three industry authorities: Keith Lewis, Vice President of Operations for CargoNet; Joe Byers, Co-founder of CarrierOK; and Rich Daigle, Enterprise Account Executive at Tive, providing solutions for supply chain security through loss prevention and enhanced carrier visibility. 

Together, they explore critical strategies for:  

• Vetting Carrier Partners: The episode dives into best practices for evaluating and selecting reliable transportation partners. 
• The Power of Visibility: The discussion explores how real-time tracking and monitoring can safeguard your cargo throughout its journey. 
• Loss Mitigation Strategies: Valuable insights are provided on how to respond to missing cargo situations effectively. 

Welcome back to another episode of More Than a Broker.

In this episode, Spot Co-founder Andrew Elsener interviews Dr. Angi Acocella, a Transportation, Logistics, and Operations Management researcher at the School of Economics and Management of Tilburg University in the Netherlands. Dr. Acocella is also an alum of MIT, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, and worked as a Research Associate and Case Writer at Harvard Business School. 

Listen to learn more about price impacts and the relationship between Shippers and Carriers.    

Welcome to a bonus episode of More Than a Broker.

Co-founder Andrew Elsener sat down with Indianapolis-based marketing agency Caldwell VanRiper (CVR) President Kevin Flynn and Spot's Director of Marketing, Kris Nielsen, to discuss the behind-the-scenes work to bring Spot's new website to life.  


About Kevin Flynn:
As President of CVR, Indiana’s longest running advertising & PR agency, Kevin has transformed this traditional agency into a global digital marketing firm. He has led marketing strategy for clients in the transportation, retail, healthcare, construction, and financial services industry in the U.S. and around the world.

Prior to joining CVR as President, Kevin was SVP of Marketing of Finish Line (now JD Sport), one of the world’s largest athletic shoe retailers, where he led in-store and on-line marketing, PR, and corporate communications. Before that, he worked in media and account service at Leo Burnett in Chicago on accounts such as Kellogg’s, McDonald’s and Tropicana as well as in ad sales at The Discovery Channel.

Kevin is very active in the local community and has sat on boards of several nonprofits and other small businesses.

About Caldwell VanRiper:
Founded in 1910, CVR is one of the Midwest's longest running and most respected advertising agencies. Its expertise in website design, branding, automation, and SEO was instrumental in creating a new website that is visually appealing, user-friendly, and that will help Spot achieve its business goals.