From Freight Broker to Brand Builder: The Prime Hydration Playbook w/ David Hager | Ep 66

In this high-velocity episode of the Logistics & Leadership Podcast, Justin Maines sits down with David Hager—Director of Transportation and 3PL Administration at Congo Brands—to unpack what it really takes to scale a rocketship like Prime Hydration from the inside.

David’s journey spans from grinding it out at Total Quality Logistics to becoming employee #18 at Congo Brands, where he helped build their freight and fulfillment engine from scratch. From sleepless startup nights to managing a 20-person team, he shares the hard lessons learned scaling one of the fastest-growing beverage brands on the planet—while staying rooted in hustle, ownership, and operational excellence.

Whether you’re a freight broker hungry for a bigger seat at the table or a founder navigating explosive growth, David’s story is a masterclass in grit, systems-building, and showing up like an owner—even when your name’s not on the cap table.

The Logistics & Leadership Podcast, powered by Veritas Logistics, redefines logistics and personal growth. Hosted by industry veterans and supply chain leaders Brian Hastings and Justin Maines, it shares their journey from humble beginnings to a $50 million company. Discover invaluable lessons in logistics, mental toughness, and embracing the entrepreneurial spirit. The show delves into personal and professional development, routine, and the power of betting on oneself. From inspiring stories to practical insights, this podcast is a must for aspiring entrepreneurs, logistics professionals, and anyone seeking to push limits and achieve success.

Timestamps:

(00:02) – Paternity Leave, Prime Opportunity

(01:00) – The Rise of Prime and the Congo Brands Story

(02:04) – From TQL to CPG: Building the Freight Engine

(03:10) – Chaos, Cans, and Growing Pains

(04:42) – Leading Without a Title

(06:06) – Startup Mentality: All Hands, All Hours

(08:15) – From One-Man Show to 20-Person Team

(09:59) – What Shippers Actually Want

(10:43) – Be Irreplaceable: The Sales Rep Mindset

(11:19) – Final Thoughts on Outworking the Competition

Connect with David Hager: 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-hager-a0851482/

Connect with us! 

▶️ Website | LinkedIn | Brian’s LinkedIn | Justin’s LinkedIn

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▶️ Send us your questions!! [email protected]

Watch the pod on: YouTube