Trucking: new to trucking/with problems, cdljobs, drug conviction

Question
I have a big delema. I spent 3700 for a CDL, and no one will hire me. the company's that hire new drivers wont hire me because I had a few felony's on my record. last one 6 years ago. a drug conviction in 1996 and some other stuff 7 felony's in my life time. do to drugs and Alcohol. but I have been clean and sober for a while now. I am a changed person. but no one will give me a chance to even walk to there front door because the recruiters never give them my application. the local dirt haulers wont hire me because I have no experience and a felony. I spoke to a broker about buying my own truck and becoming a puller. but the insurance would be 1300.00 a month and I could get a decent truck for about 24K do you have any advice. how much it will really cost me to buy my own truck what the up's and downs will be.I am starting to think I picked the wrong career. thanks Deric

Answer
Well, let's start out by congratulating you for changing your life. now, as for the companies, it will be tough, but hang in there. go to the truckstops and pick up the publications and go through them. To maximize your chances, sign up to job search sites like bubbajunk,truckjobseekers,monster,cdljobs, and so on. fill out the applications on ALL and they will contact you when they find a company.
  As for the truck, if you can't find work as a company driver, you won't find work with your own truck. sorry. Unless you get your own authority, and you are not ready for that. I can't remember, there is companies that will give drivers a chance. don't give up. put your all into it and you will achieve your goal. Good luck Deric.