Hammer Lane Legends

Latest Episodes:

225: Surviving The Road Aug 28, 2024

Show notes

In this episode of Hammer Lane Legends, the hosts introduce their new producer, Jason, diving into his background in graphic design, podcasting, and life as a heavy metal musician. The discussion flows from the evolution of the trucking industry to Jason’s intriguing encounters with the paranormal. They swap stories about Bigfoot sightings, eerie sounds in the woods, and their passion for fast cars and adventure. With a mix of humor and suspense, the conversation explores everything from supernatural experiences to automotive enthusiasm, making for a captivating and entertaining episode.
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KEEP US FUELED: buymeacoffee.com/hammerlane
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EMAIL US YOUR STORIES: hllpodcast@protonmail.com
Website: www.hammerlanelegends.com
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Facebook: www.facebook.com/hammerlanelegends
Facebook Fan Group: www.facebook.com/groups/hll
Instagram Desktop: www.instagram.com/hammerlanelegends
Instagram Mobile: @hammerlanelegends
Twitter Desktop: www.twitter.com/HLLPodcast
Twitter Mobile: @HLLpodcast
Follow The Team
Brian Merkel
Facebook: www.facebook.com/brian.merkel.94
Instagram Desktop: www.instagram.com/brianmerkeloffical/
Instagram Mobile: @brianmerkelofficial
Produced by: Jason York
Follow Jason on Instagram @jyorkofficial

BACK IT UP |106: The Hotshots Aug 23, 2024

Show notes

In Episode 106: The Hotshots, Brian and Tony chat with Verno, a wildfire firefighter who is part of a group called "The Hotshots" - pretty cool! This group of the best wildfire firefighters travels wherever they are needed to fight wildfires in the U.S. Verno was featured in a Discovery Channel show called "Into the Inferno," which depicted the trials the whole crew went through to stop the fires. His stories are remarkable and his bravery is impressive, so buckle up and listen in as Verno turns up the heat!
KEEP US FUELED: buymeacoffee.com/hammerlane
EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS FOOD: www.preparewithhll.com

LEAVE A VOICEMAIL: 515-585-MERK(6375)
EMAIL US YOUR STORIES: hllpodcast@protonmail.com
Website: www.hammerlanelegends.com
Gear: https://www.hammerlanelegends.com/gear
YouTube: www.youtube.com/channel/UC5TWlB5Yqx8JlQr3p3bkkMg
Facebook: www.facebook.com/hammerlanelegends
Instagram Desktop: www.instagram.com/hammerlanelegends
Instagram Mobile: @hammerlanelegends
Twitter Desktop: www.twitter.com/HLLPodcast
Twitter Mobile: @HLLpodcast
Produced by: Jack Merkel
Follow Jack on Instagram @jack_theproducer

224: 57-Foot Giants Aug 21, 2024

Show notes

In this episode, the guys are joined by guest host Scott VanHalken to hear the wild stories from Andrew Lugo, a seasoned truck driver navigating 57-foot trailers through California’s toughest roads. They dive into the unique challenges of driving these longer rigs, the mental and physical demands of the job, and Andrew's journey from working in his father's small business to his current role in food service delivery. Andrew shares his experiences with trucking competitions, the pride in keeping America fed, and the struggles with low wages and freight rates. The conversation is packed with insights on the changing landscape of trucking, the importance of experience, and the need for better training for new drivers.
Support The Show
KEEP US FUELED: buymeacoffee.com/hammerlane
Gear: https://www.hammerlanelegends.com/gear
Share Your Stories
LEAVE A VOICEMAIL: 515-585-MERK(6375)
EMAIL US YOUR STORIES: hllpodcast@protonmail.com
Website: www.hammerlanelegends.com
Follow The Show
YouTube: www.youtube.com/channel/UC5TWlB5Yqx8JlQr3p3bkkMg
Facebook: www.facebook.com/hammerlanelegends
Facebook Fan Group: www.facebook.com/groups/hll
Instagram Desktop: www.instagram.com/hammerlanelegends
Instagram Mobile: @hammerlanelegends
Twitter Desktop: www.twitter.com/HLLPodcast
Twitter Mobile: @HLLpodcast
Follow The Team
Brian Merkel
Facebook: www.facebook.com/brian.merkel.94
Instagram Desktop: www.instagram.com/brianmerkeloffical/
Instagram Mobile: @brianmerkelofficial
Produced by: Jason York
Follow Jason on Instagram @jyorkofficial

BACK IT UP | 135: Return of The Merk Aug 16, 2024

Show notes

In episode 135: Return of The Merk; Brian is joined by Jack and Tony Merkel, his sons, in a throwback-style episode. With Brian Shipper unable to join, and Tony being in Pennsylvania for his sister's wedding, it seemed like a great time to catch up with the family! This was a lot of fun! We hope you enjoy it as much as we did.
KEEP US FUELED: buymeacoffee.com/hammerlane
EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS FOOD: www.preparewithhll.com

LEAVE A VOICEMAIL: 515-585-MERK(6375)
EMAIL US YOUR STORIES: hllpodcast@protonmail.com
Website: www.hammerlanelegends.com
Gear: https://www.hammerlanelegends.com/gear
YouTube: www.youtube.com/channel/UC5TWlB5Yqx8JlQr3p3bkkMg
Facebook: www.facebook.com/hammerlanelegends
Instagram Desktop: www.instagram.com/hammerlanelegends
Instagram Mobile: @hammerlanelegends
Twitter Desktop: www.twitter.com/HLLPodcast
Twitter Mobile: @HLLpodcast
Produced by: Jack Merkel
Follow Jack on Instagram @jack_theproducer

BREAKROOM | 223: DMV Mayhem Aug 14, 2024

Show notes

Brian recounts his cataract surgery and its dramatic impact on his vision, detailing the procedure from eye marking to recovery. He also shares the challenges of recertifying his license, navigating hazmat tests, and updating medical restrictions. The hosts dive into the frustrations of renewing licenses and certifications for truck drivers, highlighting the confusion of managing multiple expiration dates and dealing with ever-changing government requirements. Their conversation underscores the need for a simpler, more streamlined process for truckers, filled with personal anecdotes and candid frustrations.
Support The Show
KEEP US FUELED: buymeacoffee.com/hammerlane
Gear: https://www.hammerlanelegends.com/gear
Share Your Stories
LEAVE A VOICEMAIL: 515-585-MERK(6375)
EMAIL US YOUR STORIES: hllpodcast@protonmail.com
Website: www.hammerlanelegends.com
Follow The Show
YouTube: www.youtube.com/channel/UC5TWlB5Yqx8JlQr3p3bkkMg
Facebook: www.facebook.com/hammerlanelegends
Facebook Fan Group: www.facebook.com/groups/hll
Instagram Desktop: www.instagram.com/hammerlanelegends
Instagram Mobile: @hammerlanelegends
Twitter Desktop: www.twitter.com/HLLPodcast
Twitter Mobile: @HLLpodcast
Follow The Team
Brian Merkel
Facebook: www.facebook.com/brian.merkel.94
Instagram Desktop: www.instagram.com/brianmerkeloffical/
Instagram Mobile: @brianmerkelofficial
Produced by: Jason York
Follow Jason on Instagram @jyorkofficial

Back It Up | 169: Stir Crazy! Aug 09, 2024

Show notes

In this week's episode the guys chat with a long time listener, and returning guest, Flatbed Mike; AKA: Mr. "Toot Toot"! Mike originally was a voicemail line call-in guest several times before joining us on episode 94: Around The World and Back, to share how he got into trucking. At that time Mike was just beginning his journey into the wild world of trucking. Now, a few years later, he still enjoys hitting the road to travel across the country, albeit at the expense of his sanity at times! This was a laugh-out-loud episode, as they tend to be with Mike, full of crazy stories, and even crazier comments. We couldn't have enjoyed our time more! So sit back, relax and enjoy the show! TOOT TOOT!
KEEP US FUELED: buymeacoffee.com/hammerlane
EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS FOOD: www.preparewithhll.com

LEAVE A VOICEMAIL: 515-585-MERK(6375)
EMAIL US YOUR STORIES: hllpodcast@protonmail.com
Website: www.hammerlanelegends.com
Gear: https://www.hammerlanelegends.com/gear
YouTube: www.youtube.com/channel/UC5TWlB5Yqx8JlQr3p3bkkMg
Facebook: www.facebook.com/hammerlanelegends
Instagram Desktop: www.instagram.com/hammerlanelegends
Instagram Mobile: @hammerlanelegends
Twitter Desktop: www.twitter.com/HLLPodcast
Twitter Mobile: @HLLpodcast
Produced by: Jack Merkel
Follow Jack on Instagram @jack_theproducer

222: Borderline Madness Aug 07, 2024

Show notes

In this episode of Hammer Lane Legends, Brian Merkel and Brian Shipper chat with Zach, who shares wild tales from the road. They discuss a misunderstood yard dog incident and a nerve-wracking U-turn near the Mexican border. Zach recounts his experiences as a hazmat tanker driver, emphasizing safety protocols, and recalls mishaps like a bridge collapse in Baltimore, a resin tanker spill, and trailer mix-ups. The hosts also share their own funny and nerve-wracking moments, like getting stuck in intersections and navigating hilly terrain. The episode wraps up with a lighthearted discussion on impressions and dry counties, packed with humor and unique trucker experiences.
Support The Show
KEEP US FUELED: buymeacoffee.com/hammerlane
Gear: https://www.hammerlanelegends.com/gear
Share Your Stories
LEAVE A VOICEMAIL: 515-585-MERK(6375)
EMAIL US YOUR STORIES: hllpodcast@protonmail.com
Website: www.hammerlanelegends.com
Follow The Show
YouTube: www.youtube.com/channel/UC5TWlB5Yqx8JlQr3p3bkkMg
Facebook: www.facebook.com/hammerlanelegends
Facebook Fan Group: www.facebook.com/groups/hll
Instagram Desktop: www.instagram.com/hammerlanelegends
Instagram Mobile: @hammerlanelegends
Twitter Desktop: www.twitter.com/HLLPodcast
Twitter Mobile: @HLLpodcast
Follow The Team
Brian Merkel
Facebook: www.facebook.com/brian.merkel.94
Instagram Desktop: www.instagram.com/brianmerkeloffical/
Instagram Mobile: @brianmerkelofficial
Produced by: Jason York
Follow Jason on Instagram @jyorkofficial

BACK IT UP | 129: A Lineage of Trucking Aug 02, 2024

Show notes

In episode 129: A Lineage of Trucking; Brian and Shipper are joined in studio for a great chat with Nevin Jr. Last week, we had Nevin Jr's dad on the show, and this week we get to sit down with the man who learned from the master. As Nevin shares, driving is just in his family's veins, and that's a good thing. From the time he was a young buck he would watch his dad at work, and see the life of a trucker up close. This didn't deter him, it just opened his eyes to what he could also do. Now Nevin works at Pitt-Ohio and enjoys every minute of it, but it just shows you how we are shaped by our family. This was a great time in the studio with the guys, and we know you'll enjoy the conversation. So sit back, relax, and enjoy the show!
KEEP US FUELED: buymeacoffee.com/hammerlane
EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS FOOD: www.preparewithhll.com

LEAVE A VOICEMAIL: 515-585-MERK(6375)
EMAIL US YOUR STORIES: hllpodcast@protonmail.com
Website: www.hammerlanelegends.com
Gear: https://www.hammerlanelegends.com/gear
YouTube: www.youtube.com/channel/UC5TWlB5Yqx8JlQr3p3bkkMg
Facebook: www.facebook.com/hammerlanelegends
Instagram Desktop: www.instagram.com/hammerlanelegends
Instagram Mobile: @hammerlanelegends
Twitter Desktop: www.twitter.com/HLLPodcast
Twitter Mobile: @HLLpodcast
Produced by: Jack Merkel
Follow Jack on Instagram @jack_theproducer

221: Quirks Of Delivering Milk Jul 31, 2024

Show notes

In this episode of Hammer Lane Legends, hosts Brian Merkel and Brian Shipper chat with Scott Van Auken and his wife Karen. They dive into the trucking industry, the unique challenges of being a trucker's wife, and Karen's career as a nurse. The couple shares humorous and heartfelt stories about marriage, raising kids, and navigating health issues. Topics range from driving school buses and dealing with unruly kids to earning a Class A license and the quirks of delivering milk. The episode is filled with laughter, unexpected turns, and touching moments, making for an entertaining and lighthearted discussion.
Support The Show
KEEP US FUELED: buymeacoffee.com/hammerlane
Gear: https://www.hammerlanelegends.com/gear
Share Your Stories
LEAVE A VOICEMAIL: 515-585-MERK(6375)
EMAIL US YOUR STORIES: hllpodcast@protonmail.com
Website: www.hammerlanelegends.com
Follow The Show
YouTube: www.youtube.com/channel/UC5TWlB5Yqx8JlQr3p3bkkMg
Facebook: www.facebook.com/hammerlanelegends
Facebook Fan Group: www.facebook.com/groups/hll
Instagram Desktop: www.instagram.com/hammerlanelegends
Instagram Mobile: @hammerlanelegends
Twitter Desktop: www.twitter.com/HLLPodcast
Twitter Mobile: @HLLpodcast
Follow The Team
Brian Merkel
Facebook: www.facebook.com/brian.merkel.94
Instagram Desktop: www.instagram.com/brianmerkeloffical/
Instagram Mobile: @brianmerkelofficial
Produced by: Jason York
Follow Jason on Instagram @jyorkofficial

220: Confessions Of A Bus Driver Jul 24, 2024

Show notes

Crystal Hill, a former bus driver, recounts her 34-year career in the transportation industry, sharing captivating stories and wild incidents. From how she got into bus driving to the challenges and crazy moments on the job, Crystal reveals it all. She emphasizes the importance of professionalism and safety, persevering through accidents and tough situations. Her book, Confessions of a Bus Driver: The Ride of My Life, is packed with entertaining and eye-opening tales, including a harrowing incident where a brick shattered her jaw and a heartwarming story of a passenger caring for his terminally ill mother. Crystal highlights the camaraderie among drivers, the value of advice from seasoned professionals, and the faith that sustained her through difficult times.
Support The Show
KEEP US FUELED: buymeacoffee.com/hammerlane
Gear: https://www.hammerlanelegends.com/gear
Share Your Stories
LEAVE A VOICEMAIL: 515-585-MERK(6375)
EMAIL US YOUR STORIES: hllpodcast@protonmail.com
Website: www.hammerlanelegends.com
Follow The Show
YouTube: www.youtube.com/channel/UC5TWlB5Yqx8JlQr3p3bkkMg
Facebook: www.facebook.com/hammerlanelegends
Facebook Fan Group: www.facebook.com/groups/hll
Instagram Desktop: www.instagram.com/hammerlanelegends
Instagram Mobile: @hammerlanelegends
Twitter Desktop: www.twitter.com/HLLPodcast
Twitter Mobile: @HLLpodcast
Follow The Team
Brian Merkel
Facebook: www.facebook.com/brian.merkel.94
Instagram Desktop: www.instagram.com/brianmerkeloffical/
Instagram Mobile: @brianmerkelofficial
Produced by: Jason York
Follow Jason on Instagram @jyorkofficial
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