For most of the industry’s history, truck drivers relied on the radio for entertainment on long hauls. (And not just AM/FM radio, CB radio chatter was hugely popular for drivers and the general public in the 1970s, too!) But today, drivers have another media option to keep their minds engaged while covering long miles: podcasts.

Podcasts offer more benefits than simply being entertaining. They can help to keep drivers in touch with the industry, informed on current events, and help them connect with others with similar interests. Keep reading to learn why podcasts are an ideal media for truck drivers, plus a few recommendations to get you started.

Why Podcasts Are Ideal for Truck Drivers

Podcasts are perfect for life on the road for many reasons, but among the most important is that they don’t pull your focus away from driving safely and responsibly. Listening to podcasts is a hands-free activity that only requires listening along! Podcasts are a preferred past-time for many reasons such as: 

Availability. Most podcasts are free! Just subscribe to the show on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or whatever audio streaming service you prefer and your feed will automatically update whenever a new episode drops.

Variety. There is a podcast for practically every interest, hobby, and profession. You can find shows on comedy, drama, fiction, nonfiction, historical, sports, storytelling, current events, celebrity news…the list is practically endless.

Opportunities. The wide range of podcast content provides plenty of opportunities to expand your horizons. Listen to news broadcasts to stay informed on national and world affairs, try an improv comedy podcast to pass the time with a laugh, or find community by subscribing to industry podcasts.

Time. Podcasts are available at any time. Download a few favorites and hit “play” whenever you want! Plus, you can find podcasts of every length, from just a few minutes long to over an hour or more, making them a perfect companion during long stretches of driving.

And when it's time to take a well-earned break, why not relax with a classic trucking movie? These films have long captured the spirit of the road, and you check out a few favorites in our blog about the impact of trucking in pop culture here.

Podcast Picks for Every Type of Truck Driver 

Not sure which podcasts to try, or looking for new ones to add to your library? Check out these recommendations. From trucking industry updates to the unexpectedly educational and everything in between, we think you’ll find a few solid options here.

1. TalkCDL Trucking Podcast

TalkCDL is a popular trucking-focused podcast that keeps listeners up-to-date on the industry. Featuring news, driver stories, regulation updates, and real-life experiences from truck drivers, you’re bound to either learn something new or hear some relatable stories from the road.

2. Trucker Dump

Hosted by a long-time driver, Trucker Dump mixes industry insights with humor and personal commentary. Though host Todd McCann stopped releasing new episodes in early 2025, you can still download and listen to the show’s 200 episodes.

3. Alice Isn’t Dead

For drivers who enjoy suspense, mystery, and narrative-driven content, try Alice Isn’t Dead. This podcast is fictional storytelling with a trucking twist, with each episode slowly leading up to the end of one mystery and the beginning of another.

4. Radiolab

Radiolab combines science and storytelling in each episode, exploring little-known subjects in more detail and everyday topics in unexpected ways. This podcast is great for deep thinkers who might enjoy learning while they drive.

5. The Daily (by The New York Times)

The Daily is a short-form daily news podcast for drivers who want to stay informed without extensive reading (or listening). Since there’s a new episode every day, you’ll always have something to listen to!

6. Over the Road

If you’re just getting into podcasts and want to start with something short but interesting, check out Over the Road, an NPR-backed limited series exploring the culture and personal stories of American truck drivers.

7. Armchair Expert

Armchair Expert is a long-running podcast that, in its own words, “celebrates the messiness of being human.” Hosted by Dax Shepherd, the podcast covers a wide range of subjects, features fascinating and famous guests, and even has several spinoffs if you’re looking for even more content.

8. Pardon My Take

Fans of sports commentary with a comedic spin might like Pardon My Take, a Barstool Sport podcast. This podcast is an entertaining sports talk show that covers daily sports reports, interviews professional athletes, and keeps things lively so you’re always engaged.

Explore Other Audio Entertainment for Your Next Drive

When it comes to staying alert and engaged behind the wheel, podcasts aren’t your only option. Audiobooks are another powerful way to pass the time, explore new ideas, or get lost in a story, all while keeping your hands on the wheel and eyes on the road. Whether you’re looking for inspiration, adventure, or a deep dive into the hidden corners of science and society, here are a few standout audiobooks that truck drivers love:

“World Travel” by Anthony Bourdain and Laurie Woolever

Though it’s technically categorized as a travel guide, World Travel offers so much more than travel tips. Described as “entertaining, practical, fun, and frank,” the book takes listeners along for the ride as celebrity chef and travel documentarian Anthony Bourdain details his global explorations and his recommendations for getting the most out of wherever you find yourself.

The Fellowship of the Ring by J.R.R. Tolkien

The classic fantasy epic from J.R.R. Tolkien is the perfect audio book companion for OTR drivers who want to be immersed in the Lord of the Rings world, and have plenty of time to stay there for a while. Start with The Fellowship of the Ring before moving on to the next two installments in the trilogy.

“An Immense World: How Animal Senses Reveal the Hidden Realms Around Us” by Ed Yong

Drivers see their share of animals on long haul trips, but how many think about the deer, birds, and other everyday wildlife they encounter beyond that random sighting? An Immense World dives into the incredible sensory abilities of animals to help listeners better understand how they experience the world in their own unique ways.

These picks are just the start. With the right audiobook, every stretch of open highway becomes an opportunity to learn, laugh, or get lost in another world — no screen time required.

Get On The Road With Pride Transport 

Ready to hit the road but still searching for the right trucking company? Join the team at Pride Transport! We’re looking for drivers for OTR and regional routes, both for solo and team driving positions. Check out our driver jobs today and join the Pride Transport family.