From Chicago To the World: Daniel Gonzales leading US Messenger

Episode 40 – Daniel Gonzalez, President & CEO of US Messenger & Logistics Management Group + President of Olympic Logistics In this episode of the Last2First Podcast, Jason Burns sits down in Chicago with Daniel Gonzalez, a second-generation leader who now runs US Messenger, one of the dominant last mile providers in the Chicago market – and has recently acquired Olympic Logistics, a 3PL freight broker handling domestic and international freight. Daniel shares how he went from college bowler to “Swiss Army knife” in his family’s company – working the warehouse, dispatch, customer service, billing, routes and operations – before stepping into the role of President & CEO. He breaks down: ✅How US Messenger runs messenger intercept centers for over 30 buildings in downtown Chicago ✅Why tenants trust their packages from dock to desk with US Messenger ✅How their bike messengers (W2 employees) still move critical freight in brutal Chicago winters ✅What it means to staff mail centers for major law firms, hospitals and printing companies ✅The story behind acquiring Olympic Logistics and expanding into international shipments ✅Using a “say yes” mentality and a trusted agent network to service clients nationwide and abroad ✅The real challenges around insurance, risk, pricing and margins in last mile ✅Why Daniel thinks the barrier to entry in last mile is lower than ever – and what still separates real operators ✅How technology, data and AI are changing dispatch, visibility and customer expectations Daniel also reflects on his “last to first” moment – realizing that every envelope, specimen, cornea and file box has real human impact behind it, and why his mission is to make sure every order, every client and every employee matters. Apple Podcasts 🍎 https://podcasts.apple.com/hn/podcast/last2first-podcast/id1778491941 Spotify 🎧 https://open.spotify.com/show/3gDS58wo6IWeLl48LHukdP?si=gmhv7Lh8QvyY5xxFS9ZpPA 💼 Connect with our guest: 🔗 Daniel Gonzales - https://www.linkedin.com/in/danielgonzales89/ 📌 Shoutout to our Sponsors! Dropoff Inc. https://www.dropoff.com/ [e-mail] [phone] GigSafe https://www.gigsafe.com/ [phone] Deliver Different https://deliverdifferent.com/

What is Last2First Podcast?

Welcome to Last 2 First, the podcast dedicated to exploring the final mile in logistics and the unique challenges faced by business owners in this vital industry. Each episode features insightful conversations with industry experts, entrepreneurs, and thought leaders who share their experiences, strategies, and innovations shaping the future of final mile delivery.

Join us as we dive into topics like optimizing delivery routes, enhancing customer satisfaction, navigating regulatory hurdles, and leveraging technology for efficiency. Whether you're a seasoned logistics professional or a business owner looking to improve your operations, Last 2 First offers valuable insights and actionable advice to help you lead your business to success.

Tune in and discover how to turn the last mile into your first priority!