Carmelo Messina is the VP of Sales at 123Loadboard, a leading freight-matching network connecting brokers, carriers, owner-operators, and shippers across North America. With a community of more than 35,000 active carriers and 5,000 brokers, 123Loadboard helps close the capacity gap and simplify the freight-matching process. In his role, Carmelo focuses on sales growth, industry relationships, and helping logistics professionals use technology to build stronger broker-carrier partnerships and smarter freight solutions. Known for fostering industry partnerships, he brings a competitive edge and a team-first mindset shaped by his experience as an NFL linebacker.

In freight, the right relationship often matters as much as the right rate. Brokers, carriers, and shippers all rely on trust, clear expectations, and consistent follow-through to keep freight moving without unnecessary risk. What separates transactional freight work from partnerships that last?

The answer is a relationship-first approach backed by stronger systems and better carrier vetting. Carmelo Messina, a logistics sales leader with deep experience in the load board and freight marketplace space, explains that brokers and carriers can build better partnerships by asking practical questions about preferred lanes, equipment, freight type, and long-term fit before a load ever moves. Carmelo also highlights the value of using multiple tools, maintaining clear SOPs, and adding human verification to reduce fraud and strengthen trust. The lesson is clear: sustainable logistics success comes from combining personal relationships with disciplined processes.

In this episode of Bear Down Level Up, Desmond Clark talks with Carmelo Messina, VP of Sales at 123Loadboard, about why relationships, carrier vetting, and trust shape logistics success. Carmelo shares how brokers and carriers can create better matches, why one load board is not enough, and how human verification helps fight fraud. He also touches on AI, DOT compliance, and broker liability.

Desmond Clark is the President of Bear Down Logistics, a freight brokerage company that provides transportation and supply chain solutions across the United States. A former NFL tight end who played 12 seasons with teams including the Chicago Bears, Denver Broncos, and Miami Dolphins, Desmond transitioned his leadership and teamwork skills from professional sports into entrepreneurship. Beyond leading the company with a commitment to integrity, relationship-driven service, and operational excellence, he is a global motivational speaker, leadership trainer, and two-time published author.

Louis Santana is the Vice President of Bear Down Logistics, where he oversees operations, builds systems and processes, and strengthens relationships with carriers and clients to ensure efficient freight movement. Louis brings hands-on industry experience from both sides of the logistics business, including operating trucks and working in brokerage operations. His leadership focuses on operational excellence, process-driven growth, and developing strong partnerships that support Bear Down Logistics' mission to deliver reliable transportation services.

In logistics, the best opportunities often come from knowing exactly where you fit in the bigger picture. Preparation matters, but so does being able to step into the right room, explain your value clearly, and build trust face-to-face. What happens when strategy, AI, and real-world relationship-building come together at an international freight conference?

The answer is a sharper, more intentional approach to winning project cargo opportunities. Desmond Clark and Louis Santana, logistics professionals specializing in heavy haul and freight execution, share how they used AI to identify their strongest position before attending Breakbulk Europe: becoming the US execution arm for international and domestic partners moving freight from port to final destination. Rather than leading with cost savings, they focused on certainty, permitting knowledge, domestic execution, and solving the mystery that often begins once cargo reaches US shores. Louis also highlights how direct conversations with international contacts validated their approach and opened doors that would not have been possible through cold calls alone. The episode reinforces that AI can sharpen strategy, but trust is still built through clarity, presence, and relationships.

In this episode of Bear Down Level Up, Desmond Clark, President, and Louis Santana, Vice President, of Bear Down Logistics, chat about leveraging AI, trade shows, and face-to-face networking to create heavy haul opportunities. They share why Breakbulk Europe validated their strategy, how US execution solves project cargo pain points, and what brokers can learn from getting in the room.

Mike Shannon is the Founder of Impruve, a company that builds custom AI solutions for wealth management clients to improve communication, workflows, and client engagement. A PE-exited founder, Mike previously co-founded Packback, an AI-powered writing tool widely adopted in US higher education and recognized by Time magazine as one of the World's Top Education Companies in 2024. He appeared on Shark Tank as an early milestone in his entrepreneurial journey and is the author of Sweaty Equity, in which he shares lessons on entrepreneurship, resilience, and the small details that create lasting success.

Winning in business rarely comes from one massive breakthrough. More often, it is built through small choices, consistent habits, and the willingness to do the unseen work that compounds over time. What happens when leaders start treating those "little 1%" moments as the foundation for long-term success?

The answer is that small details become strategic advantages when they are tied to a bigger purpose. Entrepreneur and AI leader Mike Shannon brings experience from sports, startups, Shark Tank, and technology to illustrate how preparation, relationship-building, and disciplined communication can create momentum across industries. Mike explains why showing up early, asking better questions, nurturing relationships, and staying in motion can open doors that may look like luck from the outside. His insights offer a practical reminder that growth is often manufactured through consistency, curiosity, and the courage to keep learning.

In this episode of Bear Down Level Up, Desmond Clark sits down with Mike Shannon, Founder of Impruve, to discuss how small habits, AI, and entrepreneurial resilience shape winning businesses. Mike shares lessons from Shark Tank, the Chicago Bulls, and startup survival. He also touches on authentic communication, founder-market fit, and how AI can help improve lead response and logistics workflows.

Levi Van Pay is Director of Agent Development at Select Transport Partners, a logistics and freight brokerage that supports independent freight agents through personalized service and innovative tools. He draws on over five years of experience in freight brokerage and recruiting to help agents grow their businesses through effective sales prospecting and strong relationship-building. Levi also hosts The Freight Agent Insider Podcast, where he shares industry insights and practical advice for freight professionals. Prior to his current role, he served as a Senior Business Development Manager at Logistic Dynamics, further strengthening his expertise in logistics and agent support.

Logistics is more than moving freight; it's about building relationships, navigating challenges, and finding ways to stand out in a competitive industry. In an industry where success requires both strategy and adaptability, how do professionals truly develop the confidence and systems to excel?

Levi Van Pay, an expert in agent development, shares his journey from unexpected beginnings to mastering the art of freight brokerage. He emphasizes the importance of tenacity, repetition, and putting oneself in uncomfortable situations to grow both personally and professionally. Levi also highlights how building genuine relationships and collaborating with others, even competitors, can open doors and create sustainable success in the logistics field. His insights reveal that consistent effort, strategic networking, and confidence are key drivers for long-term achievement.

In this episode of Bear Down Level Up, Desmond Clark chats with Levi Van Pay, Director of Agent Development at Select Transport Partners, about why tenacity and relationship-building are essential in logistics. Levi shares strategies for recruiting top agents, growing brand recognition, and creating a presence in competitive markets. He also touches on international expansion, handling complex freight, and maintaining consistency under pressure.

Desmond Clark is the President of Bear Down Logistics, a freight brokerage company that provides transportation and supply chain solutions across the United States. A former NFL tight end who played 12 seasons with teams including the Chicago Bears, Denver Broncos, and Miami Dolphins, Desmond transitioned his leadership and teamwork skills from professional sports into entrepreneurship. Beyond leading the company with a commitment to integrity, relationship-driven service, and operational excellence, he is a global motivational speaker, leadership trainer, and two-time published author.

Louis Santana is the Vice President of Bear Down Logistics, where he oversees operations, builds systems and processes, and strengthens relationships with carriers and clients to ensure efficient freight movement. Louis brings hands-on industry experience from both sides of the logistics business, including operating trucks and working in brokerage operations. His leadership focuses on operational excellence, process-driven growth, and developing strong partnerships that support Bear Down Logistics' mission to deliver reliable transportation services.

Corey Davis is a Logistics Coordinator at Bear Down Logistics, where he manages daily freight operations, including coordinating drivers, tracking shipments, and ensuring loads are delivered on time and according to client expectations. Corey plays a key role in maintaining communication between carriers, clients, and internal teams to solve time-sensitive logistics challenges and keep supply chains moving efficiently.

In logistics, the easiest customer experience usually comes from a lot of behind-the-scenes discipline. Clear communication, shared systems, and fast decisions can turn a stressful project into something customers trust. But what does it actually take to become the "easy button" when freight gets complicated?

The answer is creating structure before the pressure hits. Louis Santana, a logistics professional with deep experience managing complex freight projects and client relationships, explains how solving problems starts with listening carefully, taking ownership, and simplifying execution. One key insight is the power of a shared process — like using one central spreadsheet to track container numbers, pickup and delivery dates, dimensions, carrier updates, and payment status. Louis also emphasizes that winning in logistics is not just about revenue; it is about building trust through speed, integrity, consistency, and partnerships that make clients feel confident the work will get done right.

In this episode of Bear Down Level Up, Desmond Clark, President; Louis Santana, Vice President; and Corey Davis, Logistics Coordinator at Bear Down Logistics, talk about becoming the "easy button" for customers. They explore how systems calm chaos, why relationships drive growth, and what trust looks like in freight execution. They also touch on partnerships, quick communication, and finding your lane in logistics.

Desmond Clark is the President of Bear Down Logistics, a freight brokerage company that provides transportation and supply chain solutions across the United States. A former NFL tight end who played 12 seasons with teams including the Chicago Bears, Denver Broncos, and Miami Dolphins, Desmond transitioned his leadership and teamwork skills from professional sports into entrepreneurship. Beyond leading the company with a commitment to integrity, relationship-driven service, and operational excellence, he is a global motivational speaker, leadership trainer, and two-time published author.

Louis Santana is the Vice President of Bear Down Logistics, where he oversees operations, builds systems and processes, and strengthens relationships with carriers and clients to ensure efficient freight movement. Louis brings hands-on industry experience from both sides of the logistics business, including operating trucks and working in brokerage operations. His leadership focuses on operational excellence, process-driven growth, and developing strong partnerships that support Bear Down Logistics' mission to deliver reliable transportation services.

Corey Davis is a Logistics Coordinator at Bear Down Logistics, where he manages daily freight operations, including coordinating drivers, tracking shipments, and ensuring loads are delivered on time and according to client expectations. Corey plays a key role in maintaining communication between carriers, clients, and internal teams to solve time-sensitive logistics challenges and keep supply chains moving efficiently.

Behind every seamless logistics delivery lies a world of chaos, last-minute changes, and high-stakes problem-solving. When months of planning for a massive freight move are derailed by unexpected delays, what does it take to keep customers happy and operations on

Louis Santana, a heavy-haul brokerage specialist, explains how he and his team tackled a daunting project in Texas to transport a large transformer using a 19-axle trailer. Despite six months of planning, they faced a critical setback the night before the move when the driver ran out of hours and would be delayed. Navigating Department of Transportation regulations, coordinating with riggers and crane operators, and adjusting timelines in real time, the team maintained clear and honest communication with the client. Alongside Desmond Clark, Louis highlights how a hands-on approach — especially being physically present on-site — built trust and transparency, ultimately leading to additional business from the customer.

In this episode of Bear Down Level Up, Desmond Clark, President; Louis Santana, Vice President; and Corey Davis, Logistics Coordinator at Bear Down Logistics, share insights on overcoming operational challenges and building strong client relationships. Corey also discusses face-to-face networking, commission-based growth strategies, and lessons from early career risks.

Clayborn Fields is the Owner of DTLF Transportation, a family-owned interstate trucking company specializing in general freight transportation and logistics services. A US Navy veteran turned entrepreneur, Clayborn partnered with his wife to develop a strategic plan for financial independence after serving eight years in the Navy. They launched their logistics business, focusing on reliability and strong customer relationships. He combines his military discipline, hands-on leadership, and passion for travel to deliver dependable service while building generational wealth for his family.

Breaking into logistics or trucking often feels overwhelming — uncertain income, high startup costs, and a lack of clear direction stop many people before they even begin. Even those already in the industry struggle to build consistent revenue, manage relationships, and scale sustainably. How do you go from uncertainty to building a profitable, long-term business in such a competitive space?

Clayborn Fields, a trucking entrepreneur and Navy veteran, shares that the key lies in preparation, discipline, and long-term thinking. Clayborn explains how he and his wife spent two years planning and saving roughly $25,000 before launching, ensuring they had the financial cushion and necessary equipment to survive the early challenges. He emphasizes self-education, starting small, and building strong relationships by treating drivers and partners with respect and fairness. Clayborn's approach highlights the value of mindset — staying consistent, focusing on systems, and thinking about legacy rather than quick wins — ultimately reinforcing that success comes from preparation meeting execution.

In this episode of the Bear Down Level Up, Desmond Clark and Louis Santana chat with Clayborn Fields, Owner of DTLF Transportation, about building a trucking business and achieving financial independence. Clayborn delves into heavy haul entry strategies, startup capital planning, and life on the road as an owner-operator.

Desmond Clark is the President of Bear Down Logistics, a freight brokerage company that provides transportation and supply chain solutions across the United States. A former NFL tight end who played 12 seasons with teams including the Chicago Bears, Denver Broncos, and Miami Dolphins, Desmond transitioned his leadership and teamwork skills from professional sports into entrepreneurship. Beyond leading the company with a commitment to integrity, relationship-driven service, and operational excellence, he is a global motivational speaker, leadership trainer, and two-time published author.

Louis Santana is the Vice President of Bear Down Logistics, where he oversees operations, builds systems and processes, and strengthens relationships with carriers and clients to ensure efficient freight movement. Louis brings hands-on industry experience from both sides of the logistics business, including operating trucks and working in brokerage operations. His leadership focuses on operational excellence, process-driven growth, and developing strong partnerships that support Bear Down Logistics' mission to deliver reliable transportation services.

Corey Davis is a Logistics Coordinator at Bear Down Logistics, where he manages daily freight operations, including coordinating drivers, tracking shipments, and ensuring loads are delivered on time and according to client expectations. Corey plays a key role in maintaining communication between carriers, clients, and internal teams to solve time-sensitive logistics challenges and keep supply chains moving efficiently.

Behind every successful supply chain is a story of problem-solving, trust, and relentless attention to detail. The logistics industry moves the world's goods, but it also faces challenges such as unreliable carriers, tight deadlines, and constant operational pressure. What does it take to build a logistics company that thrives on trust, strong systems, and real teamwork?

Desmond Clark's answer begins with leadership, discipline, and systems thinking, skills he developed during his career as a professional athlete and later applied to entrepreneurship. As a logistics founder and industry leader, he explains that success in freight brokerage depends on a process-oriented approach, transparency, and strong relationships with both carriers and clients. Together with Louis Santana, a heavy-haul brokerage specialist, and Corey Davis, an expert in sales and brokerage operations, Desmond emphasizes building trust by doing exactly what you promise — and owning mistakes when things go wrong. He and his team delve into the intricacies of creating scalable systems, shifting to a broker-agent model to boost profitability, and maintaining constant communication when solving time-sensitive freight challenges. Ultimately, their philosophy centers on accountability, collaboration, and scalable systems that help teams navigate the unpredictable nature of logistics while consistently delivering results.

In this episode of Bear Down Level Up, Chad Franzen of Rise25 sits down with Desmond Clark, President; Louis Santana, Vice President; and Corey Davis, Logistics Coordinator at Bear Down Logistics, to discuss leadership and problem-solving in freight brokerage. They explore Desmond's transition from a 12-year NFL career to logistics, the company's shift to a broker-agent business model, and how strong relationships with carriers help solve last-minute shipping challenges.