FOR THE LONG RUN - Jason Lederman

FOR THE LONG RUN

Legend Nominee: Jason Lederman

Fortunately, I was able to catch this Legend driver while he was home, making it easier for us to conduct our interview. The allotted free time is temporary and certainly not by his choice, but rather due to an accident that led to a broken foot. Following two surgeries he is left with inserted pins and an open schedule. Although he will be house-ridden well after our talking session is complete, I’m sure every truck driver can relate to his anguish and anticipation as he counts down the days he can return to driving. I am happy to report that he remains in good spirits while in recovery, appreciating his home-time though secretly imagining his current window view for one of passing mountains and city skylines.

As a third-generation truck driver, there is not much left to be seen or done; it’s this Legend’s journey that is unique, from the very beginning of his life to the seat he is resting in today (with his foot propped up, of course). Listening in detail to his upbringing that led to his initial introduction into the trucking industry, along with the many incredible experiences throughout his driving career, I knew immediately he was the perfect example for our reading audience to gain insight, advice, and guidance. After an overall feel for how he wanted his testimony translated, I glanced down at my recorder and realize that we had been talking for over an hour and a half. That entire time I never once referenced my list of questions.

He singles out the word, interesting – to best describe his life. We continue with our interview another hour; as we drew to a close, I agree – interesting, this guy.

No great life can steer clear of hardship, and not a single person can avoid self-doubt. It’s how you emerge from the darkness that defines who you are.

Jason Lederman of Abilene, Texas has 26 years of experience behind the wheel professionally but knew many years prior to obtaining his CDL that driving a semi-truck was his calling. Before attaining 3-million lifetime miles under his belt, Jason was managing a trucking company with a fleet of 17 trucks by the age of 18. As for trailers, he has pulled flats, tanks, refrigerated, step deck and over-sized. He tends to favor the atmosphere of flatbed and bull hauling, mainly for the challenges involved loading and unloading. But also the people on the receiving end of those two specific lanes tend to share a mutual respect for one another, often absent in other avenues of the trucking industry.

“Nothing can steer me away from this lifestyle – it’s all I have ever wanted to do! For as far back as I can remember, I’ve always imagined myself driving a truck for the rest of my life.”

A GIANT’S ARMOR

Jason was an only child, born in San Angelo, Texas. His parents both worked full-time, his father drove a truck while his mother waited tables at a local truck stop. At the age of 5, Jason was dropped off at a boys ranch located in west Texas. The small community welcomed boys 17 years of age and below – Jason was the youngest during his 3-year stay. The programs offered were to educate and strengthen leadership skills within a safe environment.

Although his initial arrival to the open campus started as a fishing adventure with his dad… at least that was what Jason was told. Idolizing his father, Jason wanted to be just like him – in all the facets, including being a truck driver – that day his mentor wanted to go fishing, so naturally Jason did too. Left at the ranch, completely abandoned by his father, Jason pushed all of his emotions deep down, as to show no fear. The new kid stood tiny in frame with survival instincts on high alert.

The ranch provided academic classes and extra-curricular programs with management, case workers, and coordinators in place to help ensure the living experiences were met by each child. Unique opportunities were available for all students to participate, Jason’s love for animals led him to the 4H Club, which evolved into an interest in bull riding. He paid no mind to his own physical stature, if all the other kids could do it – so could he.

Jason started showing rabbits, sheep, and hogs at county fairs. While at a rodeo parade, a Shetland pony caught his eye. Announcing that he could break the pony in (without any general knowledge of training horses), he was convinced of his abilities strictly on ego alone. After his ride was successful, he leaped off with the confidence of a pro… until the Shetland pony bit him on the lower part of his back. He explains,

“I already had the big head from riding the pony, I had my chest puffed out and everything. Then, while I was standing beside it, he got ahold of me and that bruise turned every color in the rainbow. Red, yellow, blue, purple, green, you name it! But of course, that didn’t stop me… I went on to tell the older kids that I could out ride them all when it came to bull riding… even back then I had an alligator mouth that was way too big for my tweety bird tail.”

Jason was taken down to the rodeo where the riders were practicing, there was no getting out of the challenge he drummed up. Just 6 years old, he was ready to attempt riding bareback for the first time. Nobody’s fool, he selected the smallest steer of the group, who later fell over right out of the gate – which feed his confidence and enticed more banter. Aggravated, the other boys didn’t allow him to pick his next bull. Refusing to coward down, Jason mounted the chosen beast and held on for a number of seconds before being tossed in the air for what felt comparable to forever. That particular day’s rodeo lesson sparked a new passion, as his love for bull riding grew from that moment forward.

Through the 4H Club, Jason was taught the meaning of responsibilities and hard work. At the ranch, he was treated no different on account for his age or height – he was trained to operate machinery and drive tractor-trailers needed to farm and haul feed for livestock. Before the age of 7, Jason knew how to drive a twin stick cabover International. Jason says, “What could be deemed a terrible situation turned out to be an experience of a lifetime, even though it took me many years to recognize this.”

Jason’s mother discovered his whereabouts months after his father parted ways. The legal process of retaining guardianship was a battle in itself. At age 8, Jason was living with his mother and stepfather in Odessa – 120 miles away from the ranch. They lived in a rural area out in the country. Hoping to be an outlet for aggression, his parents signed him up to play football, but sports wasn’t Jason’s forte. Despite the fact he was finally among family again did not erase how deeply affected he was emotionally. Undoubtedly, he appeared more lost with them, than at the ranch surrounded by strangers.

Time has a way of calming one’s spirit. Age can sooth a reckless heart and offer a life with clear vision and peace to accept what is out of our control.

THINK BIG, DREAM BIGGER

His rebellion carried on into his teenage years, but his step-father, Russell was still able to plant little seeds of hope when given the opportunity. Russell owned several businesses, one being a trucking company hauling a water softener to hospitals and establishments throughout the state of Texas. At age 12, Jason began joining Russell on the road pulling tankers and learning the ropes. Four years later, his biological father reentered the picture. Again, pushing the expected resentment away, Jason gave in to the little boy that so desperately loved his father and made amends with his absence. Jason jumped at the offer to travel with his dad in the truck; soon he was driving a 13-speed down the interstate without any assistance from his co-pilot.

He returned home to Texas, as his outrage built up, everyone became a target including himself. Jason struggled with alcohol abuse and drug use. After his 18th birthday followed by a lengthy stint behind bars, he was clean. Russell brought him on full-time with the family business, gave him a truck to drive and put him in charge of the drivers. In exchange, Harold wanted Jason to continue his education; agreeing with the compromise, he pursued a degree in Petroleum Engineering. At age 20, Jason was living in Lubbock, Texas with everything on track – he credits Russell for his unending encouragement during some of his most difficult years. Helping someone unveil their own purpose is a gift many never receive.

In 2000, Jason Jr. was born; also an only child, similar to Jason’s own upbringing, the only difference being – Jason made a promise to himself on a ranch several years ago that if he ever became a father, he would be a part of the child’s life, and help raise him or her to know the meaning of unconditional love. Working over-the-road, Jason admits that he missed out on a lot of quality time that could have been spent with his son, though he knew his profession required that sacrifice. Throughout his driving career, finding a healthy balance while aware of his absence created its share of ups and downs, but the love and pride he feels for Jason Jr. serves as a bond, strengthening their relationship over time. No matter the distance in-between the pair, it has always been important for Jason as a father, that his son recognizes his own worth and knows that he is loved. Jason Jr. is currently a student in college where the two reside in the same hometown.

A year after his son was born, Russell passed away. Venturing out on his own, the first company Jason landed with was a flatbedding outfit running long-haul. Traveling states beyond Texas opened so many opportunities; meeting new people, visiting historical sites, most importantly – experiencing life on the road. Stating,

“I wanted to wake up in a different state every day. The experience was unreal, and I loved every bit of it! Everybody I met along the way and the beautiful places I’ve witnessed will stick with me forever. I was able to complete my life goal – visit all 48 connected states and Canada.

I’ve been working in this industry for a long time… I learned how to drive a truck before I could ride a bike. So, when I was able to really hit the road and do all of this, it reminded me that it was all going to work out. Guess that’s part of why I still love what I do for a living.”

Jason secured a driving position for a company based in America but originated in British Columbia. He was able to expand his driving abilities into a much more complex terrain. The factors of inclement weather on top of mountains was nothing like the open lands of Texas. Reverting back to his relentless mentality, Jason invited the challenge and change of discord.

He shares bits of advice for drivers unaccustomed to the dangers of severe weather hazards or ascending and descending on wet/icy roads: take your time, remain calm, and if you’re not comfortable – don’t drive. No risk is worth the risk. Whether you’re driving a truck up north or further south, each driver’s outlook will mirror one another. Meaning, drivers sacrifice a lot; miss out on holidays, birthdays, and special occasions. But they do so, knowing that their service provides families and businesses with the means to survive.

Aside from Jason’s foot injury, he already began to dial down his away time since tying the knot with his wife, Jessica 3 years ago. Together they share many common interests, such as; hunting, fishing, building and remodeling furniture. As most outcomes unfold, the silver lining proves that even the worst situations can have a positive aspect… and that the underdog always comes out on top.