The Ramp Up
Podcast Description
The Ramp Up is a Podcast by Hoplite Logistics detailing their journey from a pre-launch startup as a Logistics brokerage. Co-Founders Rich Krul and Bryan Rekowski share their perspective as the business has continued to evolve, while also talking with industry professionals about every aspect of growing a business.
Podcast Insights
Content Themes
The podcast delves into various themes around logistics, business growth, and technology integration, offering episodes focused on sales training innovations, corporate culture, and marketing strategies in logistics. For example, Episode 4 explores AI role-playing in sales training, while Episode 3 discusses cultural values in hiring practices.

The Ramp Up is a Podcast by Hoplite Logistics detailing their journey from a pre-launch startup as a Logistics brokerage. Co-Founders Rich Krul and Bryan Rekowski share their perspective as the business has continued to evolve, while also talking with industry professionals about every aspect of growing a business.
AI is reshaping nearly every industry, and freight and logistics are no exception. Among the companies leading this transformation is Augment, a rising force in freight brokerage technology.
In this episode, hosts Rich and Bryan sit down with Justin Hall, CCO of Augment, to dive into the company’s mission, capabilities, and vision for the future. Justin shares his unique background, the lessons that shaped his career, and why Augment is positioning itself as a game-changer for brokers.
Looking ahead, what will freight look like in the next 2–3 years as innovation accelerates? Justin offers his insights—and explains how you and your company can start capitalizing on these changes today.
00:01 – Intro & Culture Building
06:29 – Justin’s Background & Freight Journey
16:23 – The Origins of Augment
21:37 – Why Hoplite Partnered with Augment
23:49 – Augment’s Mission
28:32 – The Promise of AI in Freight
32:32 – Startup Culture & Work–Life Balance
36:30 – Augment’s Commitment to Customers
37:47 – Do Shippers Care About AI? The Real Value Add
39:34 – Long-Term Applications of AI in Freight
44:43 – The Role of Tribal Knowledge in Logistics
46:10 – Augment’s Biggest Challenges to Date
48:37 – Taking the Leap: Starting Your Own Business
50:38 – Why Shippers Choose Hoplite

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