Long hours, tight schedules, and unpredictable situations—truckers face these challenges daily, often leading to stress, decision fatigue, and sleepless nights. This episode of Enjoying Life OTR brings in professional counselor Atara Parkinson, who offers practical, science-backed tools to help you manage the mental load of life on the road. Learn quick techniques like the physiological sigh and peripheral vision exercises—simple methods you can implement today to calm your mind and stay focused.

Trauma can build up over time, especially after facing tough situations on the highway. Atara helps us recognize the hidden impact of unprocessed events and how they can affect your overall health. She shares strategies like brainspotting and talk therapy to help drivers identify trauma triggers and find a path to recovery, even amidst the challenges of the road.

Finding the right support shouldn’t be another stressor. In this episode, we break down how to find someone who truly understands your unique lifestyle, emphasizing the importance of a supportive, non-judgmental relationship. Plus, discover the power of community support and self-advocacy in the healing process. Whether you’re a long-haul driver or anyone seeking ways to manage stress and trauma, this episode offers valuable insights for a healthier, more balanced life.

Atara Parkinson is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Certified Integrative Practitioner. Her passion is to help clients in the mind/body connection. She loves watching the physical body and mind align to impact mental health through nutrition and integrative medicine. She supports her clients in creating sustainable vision for their lives. The goal of her work is to empower clients on gaining clarity to obtain holistic balance in mind, body and soul. She believes that a strong therapeutic connection is vital in creating a space for healing to take place. Her approach is to create a safe, compassionate, and non-judgmental space for clients to explore their lives and beliefs. She is a member of the Enjoying Life OTR Facebook group and can be reached via email ataraparkinson@protonmail.com if we have any questions or concerns. She is passionate about helping others on their journey.

Send us a text

Enjoying Life OTR: conversations that inspire curiosity, adventure, and resilience. We're honoring drivers, sharing their adventures and becoming healthier truckers.

Stay tuned to discover creative life hacks and practical strategies for enhancing our well-being and making the most of our time on the road. So many exciting things are happening in our community, and we are grateful that you are a part of it. Welcome to Enjoying Life OTR!

Join the Movement! See the sights, enjoy the food, take the pic and share with our community! Make the most of the opportunity and share ways to save money doing it!

You are invited to share your journey with other drivers who are Enjoying Life OTR.


Join "Enjoying Life OTR" Facebook Group:
https://www.facebook.com/share/RstyK3SgWaKLm9Qf/?mibextid=lOuIew

#HealthierTruckers
#EnjoyingLifeOTR

If you have questions or would like information about being on our podcast, contact our hosts:
Cindy Tunstall: EnjoyingLifeOTR@gmail.com
Malinda Fox Wellington: Malinda@NomadTLC.org

Two Life-Changing Moments on the Road: How Robert Pound Overcame Unimaginable Tragedy
In this heartfelt episode, seasoned trucker Robert Pound opens up about the life-altering impact of two devastating accidents, sharing his story of resilience and strength with Cindy Tunstall, host of Enjoying Life OTR. Robert’s journey offers a powerful reminder that we often have no idea what others are enduring, a lesson that deeply moved Cindy. Together, they explore the hidden struggles of life behind the wheel and the profound sense of community that sustains drivers through tough times.

The conversation delves into the evolution of the trucking industry, from the camaraderie-filled days at classic truck stops like the Iron Skillet to the structured routines introduced by new technologies like electronic logging devices. Cindy, a newer face in trucking, and Robert, with over two decades of experience, share their unique perspectives on these changes and what they mean for today's drivers.

Beyond the challenges, this episode highlights the power of mentorship and the critical role of community. Cindy and Robert tackle misconceptions about road safety, the importance of proper training, and the dynamics of accidents involving four-wheelers. Their discussion reveals how the support of fellow drivers can be key to adapting safely to new technology and staying grounded during difficult moments.

This episode is not just about adversity; it’s about finding joy and building a healthier lifestyle on the road. Cindy and Robert share creative tips for staying active, accessing nutritious meals, and engaging with supportive online communities. Through stories of mentorship and shared experiences, they celebrate the strength and resilience of truckers everywhere—reminding us that for many, trucking is more than just a job; it’s a way of life.

Send us a text

Enjoying Life OTR: conversations that inspire curiosity, adventure, and resilience. We're honoring drivers, sharing their adventures and becoming healthier truckers.

Stay tuned to discover creative life hacks and practical strategies for enhancing our well-being and making the most of our time on the road. So many exciting things are happening in our community, and we are grateful that you are a part of it. Welcome to Enjoying Life OTR!

Join the Movement! See the sights, enjoy the food, take the pic and share with our community! Make the most of the opportunity and share ways to save money doing it!

You are invited to share your journey with other drivers who are Enjoying Life OTR.


Join "Enjoying Life OTR" Facebook Group:
https://www.facebook.com/share/RstyK3SgWaKLm9Qf/?mibextid=lOuIew

#HealthierTruckers
#EnjoyingLifeOTR

If you have questions or would like information about being on our podcast, contact our hosts:
Cindy Tunstall: EnjoyingLifeOTR@gmail.com
Malinda Fox Wellington: Malinda@NomadTLC.org

What if your toughest challenges became the stepping stones to your greatest triumphs? Join us as we sit down with Ben Grunenwald, a remarkable figure in the trucking industry, who shares his incredible journey from hardship to success. From dropping out of high school and facing homelessness to becoming the youngest driver in his company, Ben's story is a testament to resilience and determination. Listen as he recounts his early fascination with trucking, inspired by his grandfather, and his rise through the ranks to become an expert in safety management.

Ever wondered how a roadside breakdown could lead to an encounter with automotive legends? Ben takes us through his adventurous six years on the road, including a memorable breakdown near Barstow, California, that serendipitously led him to a Carroll Shelby car museum in Las Vegas. There, he met Michael Shelby and got a sneak peek at the unreleased Shelby Series 7. Beyond his professional adventures, Ben also shares a heartwarming tale of reconnecting and marrying a former girlfriend after 20 years apart, highlighting the unexpected twists and personal milestones that define a trucker's life.

Curious about the future of the trucking industry? Ben delves into the rise of autonomous trucks and technological advancements shaping the field. Hear his thoughts on how these changes could impact drivers and the benefits they might bring. Learn about his transition from night shifts to higher education in criminal justice and supply chain management, all while maintaining a growth mindset and positive outlook. This episode is packed with practical strategies for personal and professional development, making it a must-listen for anyone in the trucking community or those interested in the evolving landscape of this essential industry.

Send us a text

Enjoying Life OTR: conversations that inspire curiosity, adventure, and resilience. We're honoring drivers, sharing their adventures and becoming healthier truckers.

Stay tuned to discover creative life hacks and practical strategies for enhancing our well-being and making the most of our time on the road. So many exciting things are happening in our community, and we are grateful that you are a part of it. Welcome to Enjoying Life OTR!

Join the Movement! See the sights, enjoy the food, take the pic and share with our community! Make the most of the opportunity and share ways to save money doing it!

You are invited to share your journey with other drivers who are Enjoying Life OTR.


Join "Enjoying Life OTR" Facebook Group:
https://www.facebook.com/share/RstyK3SgWaKLm9Qf/?mibextid=lOuIew

#HealthierTruckers
#EnjoyingLifeOTR

If you have questions or would like information about being on our podcast, contact our hosts:
Cindy Tunstall: EnjoyingLifeOTR@gmail.com
Malinda Fox Wellington: Malinda@NomadTLC.org