Articles by Rhonda Johnsen

  • Blogs By Author

  • Blogs By Tag

Randy's Home Time During Training - Part 1

Experience a week in the life of a truck driver couple as they go through errands, moving, yardwork, pinstriping and more as they attempt to make a living in the trucking industry.

Randy's Phase 1 CDL Training - Part 9 - He's Done!

Randy and his wife discuss their experiences in the trucking industry, from prisons to home time, during the week of October 18-21. Their story includes funny text messages, random drama, and a bus ride with an adorable little blonde girl.

Randy's Phase 1 Training - Part 8

This article provides an inside look into the struggles of maintaining a marriage in the trucking industry. It reveals the importance of communication and trust, as well as insights into the everyday realities of life in the trucking industry. Read on to learn more!

Randy's Phase 1 CDL Training - Part 7

Randy, a truck driver, experiences both the joys and difficulties of a long-distance job. He encounters icy roads, jackknifing, and unexpected fog. While he's away, his wife has to manage the household and bills by herself. Follow Randy's journey as he navigates the struggles of his OTR job.

Randy's Phase 1 CDL Training - Part 6

Truck drivers struggle with a range of issues while on the road, such as maintenance issues, financial struggles, and difficulty staying connected with family. This article follows one truck driver and his daily challenges.

Randy's Phase 1 CDL Training - Part 5

This informative article shares the interesting story of a truck driver's daily life from their experiences on the road and back at the school. Read to learn more about the daily life of a truck driver.

Randy's Phase 1 CDL Training - Part 4

This article follows a truck driver's journey through their training period and details the struggles they face. It covers log violation, communication issues, progressing through the training modules, and more, providing an insider's look into the trucking industry.

Randy's Phase 1 CDL Training - Part 3

This informative article is written by the wife of a truck driver, sharing her first-hand experience with the OTR trucking industry. It covers topics such as the struggles of the job, the acronyms used, and the ways to cope with being away from home.

Randy's Phase 1 CDL Training - Part 2

Randy takes a bus trip across the US, from Utah to South Carolina and then back to Des Moines. His journey is documented by his wife, who shares funny anecdotes and stories about the people he meets and experiences along the way.

Randy's Phase 1 CDL Training - Part 1

Randy, a truck driving student, talks about his experience as a truck driver. Long days for low pay, married widows, and all the hard stuff of trucking. Plus, Randy is getting good mileage, but his trainer drives too fast.

Advice For Couples Regarding Truck Driving

Truck driver school isn't just tough for the student - spouses have to learn new ways of handling the stress and navigating the unique challenges that come with long-distance separations. This article offers advice for both couples and spouses to help them through the process.

Advice For Truck Driving School Students

Get the inside scoop from experienced truckers on what to expect from Truck Driving School. Learn how to prepare, what to expect, and the best way to approach your training for successful graduation!

Randy's Truck Driving School - Days 20 And 21

Going through CDL training on the road can be both stressful and exciting. Learn about one truck driver's experience of navigating their journey, from meeting the trainer and their spouse to getting to their destination. Get tips on how to stay focused, make the best of the journey, and stay connected with loved ones.

Randy's Truck Driving School - Days 18 And 19

Truck driving school can be a difficult experience with a lot of uncertainty. In this article, follow Randy's journey and receive useful tips to survive the process such as budgeting, studying and embracing the change in lifestyle.

Randy's Truck Driving School - Days 16 And 17

Randy graduated truck driving school and is preparing to go out with a trainer. He quickly bonded with his fellow students and will miss hearing about them. The experience was intense and has done him a world of good.

Randy's Truck Driving School - Days 13, 14 And 15

This article provides a day-by-day guide to truck driving school. Learn what to expect during orientation, tests, and while on the road. Get tips on eating healthy, learning the job, and avoiding distractions.

Randy's Truck Driving School - Day 12

This article is about a truck driver's stressful day, which included employment records, an orientation meeting, 100% passing rate in the class, fear of being sent home, and silly anecdotes.

Randy's Truck Driving School - Day 11

This article follows the journey of a truck driver in training as he attempts to pass his exams, talks to his wife for encouragement, and deals with difficult roommates at the training facility. It also discusses the rumors surrounding failed tests and other hardships faced by truck drivers.

Randy's Truck Driving School - Day 10

This article follows a truck driver's journey of long hours, learning new skills, and supporting his wife from afar. Topics include safety issues, time zone differences, and the unique experiences of life on the road.

Randy's Truck Driving School - Day 9

This article follows the story of one truck driver and his family as they navigate the stress and pressures of the trucking industry. They are finding ways to cope, while also discussing the current job market and the competition it is creating. In the end, the article encourages self-care during difficult times.

Randy's Truck Driving School - Day 8

Truck drivers face unique problems and this article shares funny accounts of them. From the snoring roommate to the uncooperative student, to the health nut buying snacks, there's something for everyone in these stories from the road.

Randy's Truck Driving School - Day 7

This article provides safety tips and advice for truck drivers and anyone in the trucking industry. It discusses a recent accident, being well-informed, being patient and understanding, avoiding alarming rumors, preparing for an intense, fast-paced environment, and the importance of family support.

Randy's Truck Driving School - Day 6

Randy was relieved to pass his backing test on the first try. He is practicing pre-trip inspections and has to pass quizzes with scores of 80% or higher in order to get his CDL. He is also learning to deal with the challenges of a crowded school and the cocky 'Super Trucker' stirring up trouble.

Randy's Truck Driving School - Day 5

This article provides an insider's look into a truck driving school and the CDL training process. Get a glimpse into the experience of the instructor's husband who recently began his training. Find out about the flexible, accelerated program, DOT tests, and more.

Randy's Truck Driving School - Day 4

This article explores the day-to-day observations of a truck driver, including tips for safety, money management, and more. Learn best practices for working in the trucking industry so you can be successful and enjoy your career.

Randy's Truck Driving School - Day 3

Randy shares his experience of attending trucking school, the anxiety of everyone there, passing the CDL test, and the importance of studying the CDL book. He also shares highlights from the CDL training and his personal experience of the trucking industry.

Randy's Truck Driving School - Day 2

This article shares an update from a truck driver on his lunch break as he adjusts to life changes in the trucking industry. It discusses the fast-paced schooling, lifestyle adjustments, and updates from Randy. It also provides insight into the loneliness experienced by the truck driver's wife during this transition.

Randy At Truck Driving School - Day 1

Randy spent his first day at a truck driving school and encountered several surprises. He met interesting characters, heard warnings about not taking the lease, and had to face his own nerves. Randy learned a lot on his first day and was even able to make a new friend.

Crazy Bus Ride to Truck Driving School

This article provides insight into what it may be like to ride a Greyhound Bus to Truck Driving School. Misinformation, sketchy characters, and unexpected challenges are all discussed, as well as advice for family members who will be waiting at home during the journey.

Packing List for Truck Driving School

Find out what items are essential to bring on a trucking trip, including documents, school and staying organized items, personal items, necessities, and clothing. Get tips on packing smart and tips for keeping valuable items safe.

How a Husband And Wife Became Interested in Trucking - Part 2

This article tells the story of a truck driver and their family who faced unexpected news and new challenges. It covers their journey from research to school, and the struggles and successes they experienced.

How a Husband And Wife Became Interested in Trucking - Part 1

Randy and his wife have been together for nearly 29 years. For 25 years, they owned an at-home business. When their business struggled, they decided to pursue truck driving. Read more to learn about their inspiring story!

Why Join Trucking Truth?

We have an awesome set of tools that will help you understand the trucking industry and prepare for a great start to your trucking career. Not only that, but everything we offer here at TruckingTruth is 100% free - no strings attached! Sign up now and get instant access to our member's section:
High Road Training Program Logo
  • The High Road Training Program
  • The High Road Article Series
  • The Friendliest Trucker's Forum Ever!
  • Email Updates When New Articles Are Posted

Apply For Paid CDL Training Through TruckingTruth

Did you know you can fill out one quick form here on TruckingTruth and apply to several companies at once for paid CDL training? Seriously! The application only takes one minute. You will speak with recruiters today. There is no obligation whatsoever. Learn more and apply here:

Apply For Paid CDL Training