In this episode, I sit down with Pete Lynagh, founder of Haul Agency, a marketing firm that specialises in logistics and freight.

Pete shares how he went from being an electrician to running a full-service digital agency focused exclusively on the logistics sector, and why most companies are still stuck posting “truck pics” instead of building real online brands.

If you work in freight forwarding, transport, or logistics and want to understand how marketing can actually grow your business and attract better talent, this episode is for you.

Price and service still matter in freight forwarding, but they no longer win on their own.

Sam talks with Sean Crook, Co-Founder and Director of Neolink, about why logistics decisions now hinge on visibility, technology, and data-driven insight.

Sean shares how a beer marketing mishap led him into freight, the early grind of building Neolink, and why the old “price and service” pitch falls short.

They cover:

• How COVID flipped customer priorities toward transparency and tech

• Using AI and automation to scale without adding headcount

• Lessons from Neolink’s first acquisition and culture-first growth

• How roles in forwarding will change as AI takes over routine tasks

  
  

For anyone moving freight or selling logistics services, this conversation shows what creates real value beyond a sharp rate and a smile.

In this episode, Sam speaks with Johann Psaila, sales leader and founder of Blueprint Coaching, about how freight professionals can future-proof their careers.

With over 20 years’ experience across shipping lines and freight forwarders, Johann shares what sets top performers apart – from hunger and discipline to building a strong personal brand.

They dive into:

• Why most sales teams rush to hire and fire, and how to fix it.

• The power of personal branding on LinkedIn (and why only 10% of people post).

• How smaller forwarders can compete against the multinationals.

• The role of AI in sales and why communication will always be your edge.

• Actionable tips salespeople can implement today to lift results.

A must-listen for anyone in freight forwarding, shipping, or sales who wants to stay relevant and thrive

In this episode of Forward Thinking, Sam Smeaton speaks with Paul Zalai, co-founder and director of the Freight & Trade Alliance (FTA).

They discuss the evolution of FTA, the challenges facing the freight forwarding and logistics industry, and the impact of AI and automation on talent. Paul shares insights on policy advocacy, customs broker shortages, and the importance of building a pipeline of skilled professionals.

This conversation covers industry trends, recruitment challenges, and what the future could look like for freight in Australia.

Ep 1 - "They think all freight forwarders are dumb", with Arman Muhović from Northline Logistics.

In this first episode of Forward Thinking, Sam Smeaton from LogiHire sits down with Arman Muhović, International Trade Lane & Pricing Manager at Northline. Arman shares how he carved out a unique role managing global agent relationships and why pricing, trust, and hustle still drive results in freight.

We also cover some common misconceptions about the logistics and freight forwarding industry.

We talk about:

• How the freight industry has changed in just a few years
• Why customers are getting sharper and savvier
• The real impact of geopolitical shifts and blank sailings
• What makes someone successful in forwarding (spoiler: it’s not your resume)
• How to get more young people into the industry
• Whether AI is a threat or just another tool

Arman doesn’t hold back - from pricing strategies to therapy sessions with clients, this one’s packed with honest insights, smart advice, and a few laughs.

For anyone in logistics, or thinking about getting into it, this is a must-listen.