From Family Business to $100M Freight Powerhouse: Kristy Knichel on Driving Forward

What does it take to grow a family-run logistics company into a $100M industry leader? Kristy Knichel did just that—and she’s just getting started.

In this episode of Driving Forward, host Nate Johnson sits down with Kristy to talk about her rise as President and majority owner of Knichel Logistics, the bold moves behind their explosive growth, and how she’s breaking barriers as a woman in freight.

You’ll hear:
– How Kristy scaled Knichel Logistics with tech, strategy, and grit
– Her vision to crack the top 50 freight brokers in the U.S.
– Advice for logistics leaders navigating change and growth
– Why mentoring women in logistics matters more than ever

Whether you’re a trucking company owner, brokerage leader, or building logistics tech, Kristy’s insights are a must-hear.

00:00:00 Intro
00:05:30 Growing Through Change: New HQ & Restructuring
00:09:50 From Pizza Shops to Powerhouse: Family Business Dynamics
00:18:00 Adaptation & Growth: Navigating a Dynamic Industry
00:22:00 Personal Sacrifices: Health, Family, and Leadership
00:32:10 People First: Culture, Retention & Women in Logistics
00:42:00 Legacy, Mentorship, and Looking Ahead