In Wheel Time Podcast: Your Go-To Automotive Talk Show
By: In Wheel Time Podcast | Automotive talk with Don Armstrong, Michael Marrs, and Jeff Dziekan
Language: en-us
Categories: Leisure, Automotive, Society, Culture
"Join Don Armstrong, Michael Marrs, and Jeff Dziekan on the In Wheel Time Podcast, your premier automotive podcast featuring car talk, reviews, tips, and the latest automotive news.'" The In Wheel Time Podcast is a 30-minute version of the In Wheel Time live automotive talk show on the Audacy Network Saturday from 10a-12noonCT. Now available on your favorite podcast provider including Apple Music, Spotify, Amazon Music, iHeartRadio Podcast, SiriusXM Podcast and many more including InWheelTimeCarTalk.com.Want more In Wheel Time in real time? Follow us for the latest updates! Twitter: https://twitter.com/InWheelTimeInstagram: https://www.instagram.com...
Episodes
Brazilian VW Buses, Toys, And Tacos
Dec 16, 2025The cables were messy, the mics were hot, and the parking lot was already full when we sat down with Dano—Navy and Marine veteran, Region 5 Toys for Tots coordinator, and proud VW bus owner. What followed was a lively ride through car culture, community, and the nuts-and-bolts work that turns one toy into a holiday morning breakthrough.
Dano rolls up in a 1974 Brazilian VW bus, a perfect entry point into a world where affordable classics still exist and weekend campouts feel like time travel. We dig into the differences between Brazilian and German buses, why a tu...
Tailpipes, Tacos, And Horsepower
Dec 15, 2025Sizzling fajitas, a packed lot, and a sea of chrome set the stage at Tailpipes and Tacos in Katy, Texas, where we dive into the heartbeat of car culture. We welcome Chase Murray to swap NHRA road stories and shine a light on sportsman drag racing—the data-driven, family-powered backbone that rarely gets the headlines but delivers the grit. From pit strategy and shared setups to the Emmons team’s relentless note-taking, we get into how grassroots racers turn budgets and weather notes into round wins.
We switch gears into a practical guide for building a car coll...
How Paint Protection, Hybrids, And Boat Care Converge At A Houston Car Hub
Dec 12, 2025Live from Gulf Coast Auto Shield in Houston, we step into a shop where protection, performance, and community collide. John Gray walks us through the craft and the business: why modern paint protection film is the flagship service, how ceramic coatings and nano tint complete the package, and what it takes to keep high-dollar paint and sensors safe in a world of gravel, UV, and crowded freeways. We even go below the waterline to cover marine coatings that replace heavy-metal bottom paints with longer-lasting, cleaner tech that beats barnacles and cuts annual haul-outs.
We dig into partnerships...
From Lowrider Craft To Iconic Dashboards And Christmas Road Trips
Dec 11, 2025Chrome tanks gleaming in the bed, four hydraulic pumps ready to dance, and a pearl-white El Camino built from love and discipline—Rudy joins us to share how lowrider craft, family tradition, and clean engineering come together in a car that means more than metal. He walks us through paint choices, a four-pump setup, 13-inch whitewalls, and the geometry behind extended control arms that make three-wheeling possible, plus the real-world trade-offs like accelerated tire wear and why alignment becomes a balancing act. The story moves beyond parts as Rudy traces a path from street conflict to cage fighting to ca...
Duration: 00:28:43Santa Wears A Cowboy Hat And My Dashboard Has Copper Wheels
Dec 10, 2025Ever wonder what a dashboard really says about a car? We take you on a fast, design-first journey from the brute clarity of American muscle gauges to the handcrafted elegance of vintage European cockpits, the sculpted glamour of Art Deco luxury, and the software-rich arenas of today’s supercars. Along the way, custom hot rod clusters remind us that the best instrument panel can be a mirror of the builder’s personality.
With the design lens focused, we pivot to planning a joyful holiday road trip through San Antonio. Think River Walk lights cascading from the trees, boat...
Charging Headaches And Holiday Horsepower
Dec 09, 2025The smell of fresh wax, the rumble of arrivals, and a table full of hot takes—our live remote at Gulf Coast Auto Shield pulls you straight into car culture. We kick off with a clear-eyed look at November’s sales story: Hyundai dips, Kia climbs, inventory loosens to a 64‑day supply, and hybrids keep humming while EV demand wobbles with changing incentives. That sets the stage for what drivers actually feel on the ground: access, reliability, and the difference between spec sheets and street reality.
Nothing gets more real than trying to charge an EV and findin...
Matte Today, Gloss Tomorrow, Still Don’t Touch The Cars
Dec 08, 2025Sun on the shop floor, cutters snapping, and a Ford GT gleaming under fresh film—this one is for people who love cars and want them to last. We set up at Gulf Coast Auto Shield with owner John Gray to explore how a protection-first mindset turned a corner-bay detailing gig into three thriving Houston locations. The throughline is simple and powerful: do clean work, protect value, and treat every client like the next referral.
John walks us through today’s projects, including a Ferrari F12 getting full stealth paint protection film for a matte finish without the...
Kids, Cars, And Christmas At Tailpipes And Tacos
Dec 05, 2025Cars bring people together, but the best events make room for the next generation. We’re rolling out a fresh twist on a beloved Houston-area cruise-in: a safe, dedicated kids’ car corral as part of the Tailpipes and Tacos Christmas edition at Loopy Tortilla in Katy. From pedal cars to parent-controlled ride-ons, we outline how families can show off kid-sized builds while staying clear of traffic and pristine paint. Add goodie bags, special kids’ trophies, and those famous chili pepper awards for the big rides, and you’ve got a holiday meet that’s warm, organized, and wildly fun.
W...
From High School Shop To Texas Motor Speedway: Students, Skills, And A Big Win
Dec 04, 2025A high school shop can change a life, and today you’ll hear how three Klein Kane students turned four years of training into a first-place finish and a ticket to Texas Motor Speedway. We sit down with instructor Henry Silva and his team to unpack what it really takes to win a professional-grade student technical competition: mentorship from a master tech, interview practice with industry pros, and a three-hour, bugged-vehicle challenge that demands composure and clean diagnostics under pressure.
Their roadmap goes far beyond a single trophy. From oscilloscopes and advanced scan tools to customer storytelling an...
We Drive The QX60, Crunch The Data, Name Easy Cars To Fix, and the Pacifica
Dec 03, 2025Start with a promise and test it hard: can a premium three-row actually balance comfort, capability, and value without resorting to gimmicks? We put the 2025 Infiniti QX60 through its paces, calling out the crisp front-end design, tight third row, and the surprising 6,000-pound tow rating that turns a modest 2.0L turbo into a legit weekend hauler. We share the wins you feel every day—quiet ride, simple infotainment, smart headrest speakers—and the misses that matter, like noticeable turbo lag and a transmission that sometimes feels a step behind.
From there, we pivot to ownership smarts with a sh...
Recalls, Rims, And Road Trips
Dec 02, 2025Big recalls, bigger questions, and a lineup of can’t-miss car events—this week’s show brings the garage, the newsroom, and the car meet together. We start with a clear-eyed look at current safety recalls touching seat belt integrity, instrument panel failures, fuel leaks, and high-voltage battery risks. Then we unpack a stunning manufacturing misstep that may have mixed spare and production wheels, raising the stakes on quality control and why plant processes matter to everyday drivers.
From the driveway, we share a painfully relatable DIY saga: changing a “simple” headlight that required removing the bumper and grille...
Le Mans 2000–2009, Inside The Official History with John Brooks
Dec 01, 2025What truly changed at Le Mans when the 2000s began—and why did teams abandon open cockpits just as speeds stayed sky high? We invited author and photographer John Brooks to walk us through the decade he chronicles in Le Mans: The Official History 2000–2009, and his trackside vantage point delivers a rare blend of technical clarity and human detail. From Audi’s R8 and R10 TDI era to Peugeot’s blistering 908, we explore how diesel power, aero efficiency, and rule changes made reliability the ultimate performance edge.
John pulls back the curtain on the engineering trade-offs that redefine...
Cars, Codes, And The Hackers Closing In
Nov 28, 2025A dealership website script shouldn’t be the key to your car. Yet that’s exactly what one security researcher demonstrated on a DEF CON stage, turning a forgotten corner of a portal into national-level access that could unlock vehicles, view customer data, and send remote commands. We dig into what that means for drivers, dealers, and automakers now that the family SUV doubles as a rolling endpoint connected to clouds, APIs, and third-party tools.
We walk through the chain of weak links—subdomains, misconfigured permissions, app integrations—and explain why dealer networks can become the soft underbel...
Roadrunner To Pike’s Peak
Nov 27, 2025What happens when a family heirloom gets a NASCAR heart and a date with a mountain? We brought Richard Tomlin of Apex Auto Works on to share the full story of transforming a 1968 Plymouth Roadrunner into a Pike’s Peak contender by setting the classic body over a stretched NASCAR truck chassis and dropping in a Mopar R5 P7 that sings to 9,500 RPM. The road to SEMA almost ended on the shoulder after a tow rig failure, but with help from racers and friends the car made a prime debut and drew a crowd that wanted every detail—how it w...
Duration: 00:27:59Ugly Grills, Great Cars
Nov 26, 2025Some faces you can’t forget. We kick off with a sharp, entertaining tour of automotive front ends that sparked love, hate, and head-scratching in equal measure—from the Jeep Cherokee KL’s split lighting and the Lincoln MKT’s controversial split wing to the Dodge Nitro’s gym-bro stance and the Chevy SSR’s retro grin. The thread through all of them is clear: when the nose leads the story, it can amplify a car’s character or drown out everything it does well.
Then we pivot to a grounded, detail-rich review of the 2025 Jeep Wagoneer in its two-row...
EV Reality Check: Incentives, Charging, And Choice
Nov 25, 2025EVs can feel like a battlefield of headlines and hot takes, so we put the rhetoric aside and dig into what actually matters on the road: incentives, charging reality, range you can trust, and the freedom to choose what fits your life. We start with a clear-eyed look at Honda’s massive EV write-down and a supplier lawsuit tied to a delayed electric pickup, then unpack how policy nudges, mandates, and market signals collide to shape buyer behavior. No cheerleading, no doom—just what’s changing, what isn’t, and the trade-offs drivers face today.
From there, we go wh...
Waiting On The Trooper: Cars, Laws, And Laughs
Nov 24, 2025Missed calls, rotary phones, and a trooper who can’t quite get a signal set the tone for a lively ride through today’s car world. We open with a burst of nostalgia—remember the “finger stop” on a dial phone?—then shift gears into the realities drivers face right now: inspection changes, mid-year law updates, and why some rules never match the rhythm of real life. From there, we pull back the curtain on dealership dynamics in smaller markets and the incentives that shape where families plant their flags and expand their rooftops.
The big industry turn lands w...
Yes, Your Garbage Truck Has A Recall, But Toyota’s The Real Headline
Nov 21, 2025Toyota just redrew its playbook, and we’re unpacking the boldest moves: Century stepping into bespoke ultra-luxury, Lexus getting room to grow, Daihatsu anchoring the entry tier, and GR leveling up from a badge to a performance brand with a rumored GRGT supercar. We break down how this five-brand architecture could reshape showrooms, challenge dealer agreements, and influence what you’ll actually be able to buy next year.
From there, we pivot to the realities of ownership with a rapid-fire recall rundown: Jeep Wrangler and Grand Cherokee 4xe engines flagged for sand contamination and fire risk, a swee...
Family, Fast Cars, And A Tough Season Turnaround
Nov 20, 2025What happens when a championship chase runs straight into a mechanical gut punch—and the family still finds a way to win big? We sit down with Jerry Emmons to unpack a season that had everything: a Division IV Stock Eliminator title, finals against his own nephews, and a Sunday triumph in Dallas that marked his 20th national event win. The story isn’t just about trophies; it’s about how a lost-boost hauler turned a cross-country push into a hard reset, and how a family team absorbs both the thrill of the stripe and the sting of a photo...
Duration: 00:32:14Tahoe Power, Club Legends, Subaru Sense
Nov 19, 2025Power meets perspective from the street to the driveway. We start behind the wheel of the 2026 Chevrolet Tahoe Premier 4WD, unpacking what a modern full-size SUV gets right: a serene cabin, a 17-inch horizontal infotainment screen, a crisp 15-inch head-up display, and magnetic ride control that smooths rough pavement. The 6.2L V8 and 10-speed automatic serve up 420 hp and 460 lb-ft, real-world confidence for towing up to 8,200 pounds and threading parking lots without drama. We talk price reality too, from base LS to a Premier build that climbs with paint, 22-inch wheels, and comfort options, and we stack it against...
Duration: 00:14:44Inside The Texas Muscle Car Club Challenge: Growth, Classes, And 2026 Plans
Nov 18, 2025What does it take to turn a local bracket meet into a 140-car institution that tracks want to host and racers plan their year around? We sit down with Scott Stregel to unpack the Texas Muscle Car Club Challenge, from how the series shares revenue with drag strips to the schedule and class design that keep cars in the lanes and teams coming back.
Scott explains why a fourteen-date calendar beats endless makeup races, and how shifting out-of-town events to Saturday afternoons through midnight helps racers dodge brutal Monday commutes after long tows. We break down the...
From F3000 To F1: The Hidden Pipeline
Nov 17, 2025A flat tire, a British accent, and a time machine into racing’s most underrated proving ground—this one starts with a grin and lands with substance. We sit down with journalist and author James Newbold to unpack Formula 3000, the 1985–2004 series that quietly shaped today’s open-wheel landscape. From its wild early years with multiple chassis and engines to the spec-era shift that prioritized driver skill and team preparation, F3000 became the launchpad for names you know and stories you probably don’t.
James shares why he wrote Formula 3000: Where Legends Earn Their Stripes and how he unearthed...
Inside IHRA: Classes, Tracks, And The New Grassroots Push
Nov 14, 2025Nitro belongs to the people who build the cars, tow the trailers, and wrench late into the night—and that’s exactly where we start. We sit down with IHRA Division Director Doug Foley to unpack how a racer-led sanctioning body is rebuilding big-league drag racing around access, value, and raw excitement. Think eight-car nitro fields, a clean two-day show, and five passes to a $50,000 purse—designed to cut costs without cutting thrills.
Doug takes us inside IHRA’s class lineup, from Top Fuel Funny Car and Top Fuel to Pro Mod, Top Alcohol, and the fan-favorite Mountain...
Carfax Smart used car Buys In A Hot Car Market
Nov 13, 2025Car prices are heating up, but your strategy can stay cool. We sat down with Patrick Olsen of Carfax to cut through the noise and map a smarter path to your next vehicle—whether you’re shopping new to beat tariff-driven pressure or hunting for a reliable used car with real value. We dig into timing the market, reading shifting inventory, and setting practical guardrails that protect your budget without giving up tech, safety, or comfort.
If you’re weighing used options, we break down why sedans are the overlooked bargains: late-model Civics, Accords, Camrys, and Malibus that d...
When Value Meets Velvet: Rethinking Family SUV Hybrids
Nov 12, 2025Looking for a family SUV that doesn’t force you to choose between comfort, efficiency, and price? We dive into the 2025 Kia Sorento Hybrid SX Prestige and unpack how this three-row “small” SUV manages a big presence, refined ride, and impressive mpg without blowing the budget. From first impressions to real-world numbers, we bring a driver’s-eye view of what stands out and where it lands among the best hybrids on sale today.
We start with design: a crisp Kia grille, distinctive orange DRLs, quad vertical tail lights, and straight-line sculpting that reads clean and upscale. Inside, the tone...
Mopar Muscle Cars under the Neon Lights
Nov 11, 2025Neon glows, steel shines, and the floor hums with V8 heartbeat as we step inside the Hemi Hideout for a guided tour through one of the most captivating Mopar collections in Texas. We move car by car, blending hard facts with honest reactions—why an aero-wild Superbird reshaped NASCAR, how a numbers-matching Super Bee earns reverence, and where a properly built restomod Cuda proves that drivability and drama can live under the same Shaker hood.
We share the stories that make these machines feel alive. A violet 1970 Road Runner convertible exits a riverbed after 25 years and returns as...
Hot Rod Tour of Texas rolls out around the square!
Nov 10, 2025Steel meets strings on a warm Texas evening, and that’s not a metaphor—hot rods line Victoria’s square while the symphony plays just steps away. We take you inside the kickoff of the Hot Rod Tour of Texas and show how a thoughtful Main Street strategy turned a historic downtown into a true destination for car clubs, families, and anyone who loves a weekend drive with character. From restaurants that spill onto the square to curated itineraries built by the city team, Victoria shows what happens when a community embraces car culture and pairs it with live music...
Duration: 00:29:53From Riverside Karting Legacy To French F4 Podium: A Young Driver’s Rise
Nov 07, 2025A 15-year-old American podiums in France, trains on a historic family kart track, and preps a KZ shifter for SuperNats—this conversation with Truly Adams puts you trackside with a teen who’s chasing F1 the hard way: one tenth at a time. We dive into how karting sharpens the instincts that matter—trail braking, rotation, race starts, and battling through 60-kart grids where the top 30 can be separated by a single tenth. He shares how he balances homeschooling, constant travel, and year-round testing while keeping the physical and mental edge to jump between karts and formula cars.
We...
How Two Engineers Turned AMG Into A Legend
Nov 06, 2025Two engineers walked away from the safe path and built an icon. That’s the spark behind AMG’s journey from late-night tuning to a seat at Mercedes’ top table, and author Matt DeLorenzo brings the full story to life with factory access, rare photos, and details that rarely leave the archives. We dive into the early moonlighting years, the audacious 300 SEL 6.8 “Red Pig” that shocked Spa in 1971, and how race wins turned a side hustle into the performance heartbeat of Mercedes-Benz.
Matt helps us connect the dots from privateer sedans to the Hammer era, where a V8-stuffed...
Chevy Trax Surprises, Kia Telluride Shines
Nov 05, 2025Think a three-cylinder can’t pull its weight? We put the 2026 Chevy Trax through nearly 500 miles and found punchy torque, smart gearing, and honest 30-mpg efficiency that make city runs and highway stretches feel easy. Then we climb into the 2025 Kia Telluride SX Prestige AWD, where the vibe flips from thrifty to luxurious: a serene ride, a clean and modern cabin with a huge infotainment screen, and a 291-hp V6 that tows up to 5,500 pounds without breaking a sweat.
We start with the Trax’s sharp design, intuitive controls, and surprising cargo room, weighing the real trade-off of t...
Supply Chains On Thin Ice
Nov 04, 2025A tiny, overlooked component is bringing giant assembly lines to a halt. We dig into the Nexperia saga—European control, Chinese export blocks, and a packaging choke point—and explain why the “boring” diodes and transistors tucked into door locks, HVAC, and wiper motors matter as much as any cutting-edge processor. When each vehicle hides 300 to 600 of these legacy chips, one missing part can park an entire line, and that’s exactly what Honda, Volkswagen, and Nissan are starting to face.
We connect the supply chain dots to real-world outcomes: reduced shifts, delayed models, and dealer backlogs. Then we pi...
Rochelle Salinas Explains How The Houston Auto Show Is Reinventing Exhibits, Experiences, And Community Impact;
Nov 03, 2025We sit down with newly appointed Houston Auto Show president Rochelle Salinas to unpack what it takes to steer a legacy event through inventory shortages, EV uncertainty, and shifting manufacturer strategies while still delivering experiences people can feel.
Rochelle shares concrete updates: Camp Jeep is confirmed, a curated luxury showcase with Modern Luxury is on deck, and outdoor ride-and-drives with Toyota, Subaru, and Stellantis remain a highlight. We’re adding expert-led tours that group vehicles by real buyer needs—SUVs, trucks, family cars—so you can compare fast, ask smart questions, and leave informed. Inspired by trips to LA...
From Turbo Zoom To Stow‑And‑Go: Our Seats Got Whiplash
Oct 31, 2025Two family haulers, two very different promises. We put the 2025 Mazda CX-90 and the 2025 Chrysler Pacifica through their paces to find out whether driving joy or everyday ease should lead your next purchase. If you’ve ever stood in a dealer lot torn between a sleek three-row SUV and a minivan that just works, this head-to-head is your shortcut to clarity.
We start with the CX-90’s immediate curb appeal: balanced lines, tasteful chrome, and those painted arch moldings that make it feel premium without shouting. On the road, Mazda’s 3.3-liter turbo lights up with 340 hp and 36...
Vinyl Tops, Glory And Regret
Oct 30, 2025A vinyl roof once meant instant glamour. We open with the style story that turned sedans into showroom stars, tracing how factory-installed tops promised convertible vibes without the compromise. From luxury badges to muscle icons, the trend peaked with opera windows and bold textures, then collided with reality—moisture trapped under fabric, hidden rust, and a slow retreat from the option sheets by the 1990s.
Then the conversation downshifts into the shadows: the machines that were too rare, too radical, or too rule-breaking to live a normal life. We unpack the near-mythic 1969 Corvette ZL1 with its all-aluminum 427, Fo...
Off-Road Muscle Meets Family Utility In 2025 Models
Oct 29, 2025As we head to the end of the year, with new 2026 models out or on the way, many buyers are looking for end of year deals. We are doing a review of some of our reviews of popular models, just in case....
A trail tamer or a family hauler—what truly fits your life right now? We put two 2025 standouts under the microscope: Chevrolet’s Colorado ZR2, a factory-built off-road machine with real armor and beadlock-capable wheels, and Kia’s Sorento SX Prestige with the X Pro package, a smart three-row SUV tuned for comfort, tech, and daily e...
Duration: 00:13:35Speed, Size, and Hellcats
Oct 28, 2025With Dodge thinking real hard about bringing the Hellcat, we take a look at two of our favorites.
A three-row family hauler with 710 horsepower sounds like a punchline, but the 2023 Dodge Durango SRT Hellcat Premium makes a strong case for everyday insanity. We dive into the details that matter: the captain’s chairs that make carpool easy, the Laguna leather and heated second row that keep everyone happy, and the SRT Performance Pages that tempt you to explore every drive mode. From red Brembo brakes and 20 by 10 wheels to the 10.1-inch Uconnect system and a thundering Harman Ka...
Duration: 00:12:14We Rank 10 Car Battery Brands And Explain Who Should Buy Each One
Oct 27, 2025With the weather changing toward Winter, it is a good time to check our batteries, so we decided to revisit an earlier discussion to start ... the discussion.
Ever wonder why your car starts strong some mornings and struggles on others? We take you under the hood of battery choices that actually affect daily reliability, from budget-friendly picks at big-box stores to premium designs built for harsh conditions, high-current audio builds, and weekend toys that sit for weeks at a time. Our goal is simple: help you pick a battery that fits your vehicle, your climate, and your...
Duration: 00:08:33Why Porsche Stumbled, Which Classics Surged, And How Toyota Reinvented The 4Runner
Oct 24, 2025The headlines promised an EV future on rails, but the market had other plans. We open with a candid look at Porsche’s sharp margin squeeze, the cost of a rapid electrification pivot, and why tariffs and a cooling Chinese luxury market are reshaping the brand’s near-term outlook. From Taycan’s steep first-year depreciation to the 911’s long-haul value and the Macan/718 model timing gaps, we map the difference between bold strategy and buyer reality and explore what it means for enthusiasts, dealers, and anyone pricing a premium garage.
Then we turn the spotlight to the auction...
Drive What You Build, Or Miss The Point
Oct 23, 2025A turquoise 1958 GMC Apache pulled us in with classic lines, then surprised us with a 2016 heartbeat: a 5.3 V8, 6L80, four-wheel discs, cold AC, and the kind of road manners that beg for long miles. With shop owner and builder Sonny Bennett at the mic, we dive into what it takes to craft a true driver from an old truck—why stock-style pulley systems matter, how water-based paint helps with real-world repairs, and why anyone claiming “no filler” is selling you a lumpy fantasy. Sonny’s ethos is simple and sharp: fix it right or don’t touch it, drive what you b...
Duration: 00:29:02Chainmail Dreams, Horsepower Screams, And A Third Row That Shouldn’t Exist
Oct 22, 2025Skip the time machine and grab the keys—we’re charting five Renaissance festivals worth the drive, then mashing the throttle on a set of street-legal legends before closing with a grounded, real-world review of the 2025 Toyota 4Runner. We start with why people keep returning to these immersive fairs: the craft markets, roaming characters, dense 16th‑century villages, and the freedom to show up as a spectator or a knight in chainmail. From Pennsylvania’s vineyard-backed village to Maryland’s nine-week run and Minnesota’s roomy grounds, we build toward Texas, the largest Ren fest in the U.S., where hundre...
Duration: 00:16:27A Rare Italian Luxury Car Rolls In And Steals The Show
Oct 21, 2025The morning started as a casual remote at Houston’s Back to the Past car show and turned into a deep dive into 1910 luxury on wheels. We met Lee Brown and his extraordinary Bianchi limousine, a Milan-built brass-era time capsule that still runs, still turns heads, and still asks you to earn every mile. From bevel glass and flower vases to a chauffeur’s exposed perch, the car lays out a social map of the Edwardian world where aristocrats rode in comfort and drivers braved the elements.
We walk through the car’s astonishing details and the ritual...
Fire, Chrome, And Community
Oct 20, 2025A boom in a quiet hangar, a frantic call, and a beloved 1968 Dodge Coronet 440 suddenly fighting for its life—this one starts with a gut punch and turns into a blueprint for getting back up. We’re broadcasting from the Back to the Past Car Show in Spring Branch, surrounded by alumni, barbecue smoke, and a lineup that stretches from American muscle to a fresh JDM class. Adalia Graves, from the Spring Branch High School Foundation shares the moment her numbers-matching Mopar caught fire, the shock of seeing firefighters cut into the hood, and how she’s navigating stated-value insura...
Duration: 00:30:10EV Momentum Stalls, Gas Fights Back
Oct 17, 2025The headlines say EVs are the future. The fine print says “not so fast.” We dig into a turbulent moment for electric vehicles as incentives fade, demand cools, and automakers rework plans in ways that actually make sense for drivers. From Acura and Nissan pauses to Ram and Porsche pivots, we unpack why hybrids and range-extended powertrains are stepping into the spotlight and what that means for costs, performance, and everyday usability.
We also talk design evolution—how aerodynamics and smarter packaging have turned efficient cars from awkward experiments into desirable daily drivers. Think of the latest Prius...
Bastrop’s Heroes & Hot Rides: Inside a 400-Car Main Street Takeover for Veterans
Oct 16, 2025Engines, honor, and a Main Street that turns into a living museum—this is how a small Texas town makes car culture feel like a civic holiday. We sit down with the Bastrop Car Cruisers to map the two‑day plan: a laid‑back Friday cruise‑in and a sold‑out Saturday showcase capped at 400 cars. They walk us through the choreography you never see—numbered curbs, early‑morning parking crews, tight coordination with police and fire, and a judging system that keeps 33 classes fair by sending the same judges to the same cars. The result is a show people trust...
Duration: 00:30:58A Fall Driver’s Guide: Scenic Byways, Vintage Window Stickers, and the 2025 Prius
Oct 15, 2025Want fall roads that aren’t just postcards but proper drives? We lay out a practical, enthusiast-friendly map of autumn routes that pair tight turns with big color: Blue Ridge Parkway’s banked curves and layered foliage, the Cherokee and Nantahala forests with their 900–5,000 ft rhythm, Talimena’s ridgetop vistas in the Ouachitas, and Arkansas’s double feature—Highway 23’s Pig Trail and the long, rolling canvas of Scenic Highway 7. You’ll hear when to go for peak hues, where the panoramas hit hardest, and why these segments keep both the driver and the passenger happy.
Then we flip through...
Inside Trader Interactive: How real-time registrations and marketplace behavior reshape dealer strategy
Oct 14, 2025Shoppers are researching harder and buying faster, and the old guesswork about what to stock is getting expensive. We sit down with Shannon Pinto, VP of Statistical Surveys at Trader Interactive, to pull back the curtain on how real DMV registrations and real-time marketplace behavior from RV Trader, Cycle Trader, and Boatline turn into a clear picture of demand—down to the ZIP code, make, model, and even RV configurations like slide-outs and sleeping capacity. If you run an RV, marine, or powersports dealership, this is a tactical map for smarter inventory, sharper marketing, and better show results.
From Hybrid Skepticism to Sports-Car Smiles: Prius, GR86, and the EV Crossroads
Oct 13, 2025A sleeker Prius that’s actually fun, EV incentives vanishing, and a sports car that resets your grin—this one brings the big swings and the small joys. We kick off by tearing down the old hybrid myth and putting the latest Toyota Prius through a real-world lens: punchy off-the-line torque, thoughtful ergonomics, and the kind of efficiency that makes weekly gas stops feel optional. From there, we head straight into the question everyone’s asking: with federal EV tax credits gone, does the market hold or fold?
Jack Nerad joins us to unpack what a true sink-or...
Duration: 00:30:41Inside the Garage: Recalls, Racing, and the Hidden Cost of “Cheap” Car Parts
Oct 10, 2025A bargain part that looks perfect, installs easily, and quietly destroys your engine months later—that’s the nightmare more drivers are waking up to. We dig into the growing wave of counterfeit auto parts sold online, from fake water pumps that toast head gaskets to sensors that never program and starters that die long before their time. As shop policies shift to protect both customers and reputations, we share how to source smarter, when to insist on OEM, and what “too good to be true” looks like in the real world.
From there, we widen the lens. A...
Hot rods, hot dogs, and alumni who don’t need training wheels
Oct 09, 2025A shuttered high school, a two-story library, and a parking lot full of chrome—this is how a community keeps its story alive. We welcome Spring Branch Senior High School Alumni Foundation president Frank Klam to share the unlikely journey from a closed campus in 1985 to a living museum that safeguards trophies, uniforms, and hard-won memories the district nearly hauled away. Then we shift gears into the “Back to the Past” car show, a friendly, growing cruise-in where people’s choice ballots matter, goodie bags land in eager hands, and a beloved barbecue team fires the pits to honor a friend...
Duration: 00:30:36How beer fests, badge hype, and a sleeper sedan reveal what performance really means
Oct 08, 2025Fall energy meets turbo torque as we jump from steins to stopwatches, mapping the most spirited Oktoberfests in the U.S. before tearing into “muscle cars” that talked big and drove small—then we strap into the 2025 Hyundai Sonata N Line to see what real-world performance feels like today. We start with pure festival joy: Denver turns six downtown blocks into keg bowling, stein hoists, and polka beats; Fredericksburg, Texas doubles down on Hill Country hospitality with 50 beers and a proud German thread; Helen, Georgia leans into storybook Bavarian architecture along the Chattahoochee; and Cincinnati’s Zinzinnati packs in hundreds...
Duration: 00:15:33Inside the Texas Muscle Car Club Challenge: Grassroots Racing, Real Community, Safer Than the Streets
Oct 07, 2025A friendly grudge, a lit tree, and a time slip—few things capture real car culture like club-versus-club drag racing. We sit down to explore the Texas Muscle Car Club Challenge and how it turns raw horsepower into community, safety, and bragging rights across eighth-mile tracks statewide. Even when a guest’s signal fades, the story stays clear: organize the adrenaline, race where it’s safe, and bring home a slip that proves it.
From there, we open the hood on the industry’s moving parts. Dealers are quietly finding gold in their service lanes, making real-time offers t...
From Nervous Driver to Hill Country Hero: A 21-Year-Old’s First Bronco Off-Road School
Oct 06, 2025Ever felt your stomach drop at the top of a blind hill? We handed the wheel to Olivia, a 21-year-old nursing student and brand-new Bronco owner, and watched a long day in the Texas Hill Country turn nerves into mastery. With guidance from veteran auto journalist Sue Mead, Olivia moves from classroom theory to real trail work—learning why GOAT Modes matter, how hill descent control actually feels, and where a forward-facing camera turns guessing into precision. The payoff arrives on a feature aptly nicknamed “roller coaster,” when faith in the process replaces fear of the unknown.
We dig...
The Aspire Saga: Car Culture, Comedy, and Industry News
Oct 03, 2025Buckle up for a high-octane exploration of automotive industry trends and challenges that are reshaping the market landscape. We dive deep into the alarming rise of "credit bust out" scams targeting dealerships, where criminals orchestrate the purchase of multiple vehicles through falsified loan applications before credit reports can catch up. One brazen example involved financing six vehicles worth $385,000 through five different lenders in just four days—a stark warning for dealers and lenders alike.
The electric vehicle revolution faces a critical juncture as the $7,500 federal tax credit expires and California Governor Newsom reverses course on state subsidies. Ma...
AI Estimates and Finding Reputable Body Shops
Oct 02, 2025Navigating the murky waters of auto body repairs just got easier thanks to an innovative approach that puts transparency and consumer choice at the forefront. Ilan Mandil, founder of OttoFixIt, joins us to unveil how AI technology is revolutionizing the way drivers approach collision repair estimates. By simply snapping photos of vehicle damage, consumers can now receive preliminary cost projections before setting foot in a body shop – finally addressing the anxiety-inducing question: "How much is this going to cost me?"
The conversation dives deep into the stratified world of auto body shops, from manufacturer-certified facilities using exclusively OE...
Fair Food, the MX-5 is 35, and Familiar Faces Under Different Names
Oct 01, 2025Step right up to a fascinating exploration of the Texas State Fair's hidden gems! Beyond the legendary fried foods lies a world of unexpected attractions waiting to be discovered. Did you know you could view world-famous butter sculptures in the Creative Arts building? Or that a 212-foot Texas Fair Swell offers breathtaking panoramic views of Dallas and Fair Park from 44 illuminated gondolas?
We take you on a virtual tour through ten must-see fair attractions, from the midway's 70+ rides (including the towering 500-foot Texas Tower) to the surprising Lagoon Park with its animatronic dinosaur exhibits. Sports enthusiasts will...
Car Talk & Classic Values
Sep 30, 2025The century-long story of how we value cars has dramatically shifted from dog-eared pages to digital databases. Before the internet, car dealers, buyers, and even divorce courts relied on physical booklets like Kelly Blue Book and NADA guides to determine fair market prices. These guides weren't just reference materials—they were essential tools that brought transparency to a notoriously opaque market.
NADA began tracking vehicle values in 1922, creating a standardized system that expanded far beyond dealership lots. During World War II, as manufacturing materials were diverted to the war effort, these guides became crucial in preventing price go...
The Colorful Life of a Car Paint Mixologist
Sep 29, 2025Randy Borchiding's colorful journey from model car enthusiast to custom paint specialist unfolds with charm and practical wisdom. What started with Testors spray cans and a childhood model contest victory evolved into a full-fledged career creating custom colors for show-stopping vehicles.
Randy pulls back the curtain on his early days, revealing how he built his first professional paint booth using nothing more than PVC pipes, plastic sheeting, and box fans with air conditioning filters. "Don't feel like you can't accomplish something just literally in your garage because you don't have a $50,000 box," he encourages, sharing how cars p...
Dirt, Gravel, and Glory: The Alcan 5000 Rally Adventure
Sep 26, 2025Mercedes and Andy Lilienthal take us on an exhilarating journey through North America's longest road rally - the Alcan 5000. Covering a staggering 5,500 miles from Seattle to Alaska, this husband-wife team pushed their 2026 Honda Passport Trail Sport to its limits across punishing terrain and secured an impressive second-place overall finish.
The conversation reveals the fascinating format of this epic adventure: daily time-speed-distance rally segments connected by long-distance travel through some of the continent's most remote regions. While competitors in the "unlimited" class relied on sophisticated rally computers, the Lilienthals triumphed in their "seat of pants" class using nothing...
Auto Industry Tariff Turmoil and the 2025 Toyota Grand Highlander reveiw
Sep 25, 2025Buckle up for a deep dive into the automotive industry's latest battle with tariffs that could reshape how we buy and maintain our vehicles. Automakers and suppliers have formally urged the Trump administration to reconsider unpredictable tariff expansions, warning that these policies make investing in America increasingly difficult. The financial impact? A potential $4,600 price increase per vehicle within three years, according to the Center for Automotive Research—a sobering prospect when average new car prices already hover around $50,000.
The conversation takes a personal turn as we explore the emotional versus practical considerations of keeping older vehicles. One ho...
Leaf Peepers and Wine Sippers: Safety Helmets: '25 Grand Highlander
Sep 24, 2025Autumn reveals a side of Texas many travelers never experience. While summer heat dominates conversations about the Lone Star State, fall transforms Texas into a wonderland of outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and natural beauty.
Our journey begins in East Texas, where maples explode with vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows that rival New England's famous foliage. The Sabine River region offers perfect fall temperatures for camping, hiking, and outdoor recreation without summer's oppressive heat. Moving westward, we explore the Texas Hill Country Wine Trail stretching from Fredericksburg to Johnson City. Fall means harvest festivals, grape stomps, and perfect...
Speed, Dirt, and Rivalries: Inside American Racing Culture
Sep 23, 2025The battle between dirt and asphalt tracks, the delicate ecosystem of regional racing, and the high-stakes fall racing season take center stage in this revealing conversation with motorsports commentator Rodney Rodriguez.
As Texas transitions into fall, circle track racing enters its most exciting phase with championship battles heating up and big money events drawing competitors from across state lines. Rodriguez highlights the SuperTex 600 at Rocket Raceway Park—a minimal-rules competition offering a potential $25,000 prize—as an example of grassroots racing at its finest, where "you can damn near run anything you have" from bombers to modifieds.
...
Highway to Cybersecurity: Safeguarding Cars in the Digital Age
Sep 22, 2025The digital threat landscape for the automotive industry has never been more dangerous. Legendary FBI operative and cybersecurity expert Eric O'Neill joins us to reveal how cyber attackers are targeting major manufacturers with devastating results. Right now, Jaguar Land Rover's production sits paralyzed by a ransomware attack that's already lasted three weeks with no end in sight.
These aren't isolated incidents. Just last year, a similar attack against CDK Global crippled 15,000 US dealerships, causing nearly a billion dollars in losses. What's truly alarming is how these breaches ripple through the entire automotive ecosystem - from manufacturers to s...
The HEMI Hideout: John Hovis Shares His Collecting Journey
Sep 19, 2025Step into the extraordinary world of the Hemi Hideout as we chat with owner John Hovis about his remarkable journey from car enthusiast to curator of one of the most impressive automotive sanctuaries in Texas.
Surrounded by vintage neon signs and classic cars, John reveals how what began as a personal "man cave" evolved into a destination venue that now hosts everything from corporate events to weddings. His collection of 24 vehicles—half powered by legendary Hemi engines—forms the heart of this automotive paradise, but it's the community spirit that truly defines the space. Every rental fee is ma...
The Lemon Lawyer on Navigating Lemon Laws
Sep 18, 2025Ever wondered what happens when your brand-new dream car turns into a mechanical nightmare? Hovanes Margarian, known as "The Lemon Lawyer," pulls back the curtain on the fascinating world of automotive consumer protection law in this eye-opening conversation.
From his unique garage-turned-law-office where client vehicles undergo inspection alongside his personal collection (including a Ferrari SF90 Spider), Margarian reveals the inner workings of lemon law cases that have defined his 20-year career. With remarkable candor, he explains how manufacturers often make strategic decisions about settling claims based not just on case merit, but on their own financial timing...
Space Tech Hits the Road, Route 66 through Texas and the Lexus LX600
Sep 17, 2025Ever wondered why your car's technology feels so advanced? The answer might be orbiting above your head. We dive into the fascinating world where NASA innovations have transformed everyday driving experiences, from the anti-lock brakes that keep you safe to the head-up display projecting vital information onto your windshield.
These aerospace technologies weren't just adapted for automobiles—they revolutionized them. Space shuttle landing systems became the foundation for modern anti-lock braking. Fighter jet displays evolved into the windshield projections in luxury vehicles. The same composite materials that withstand the harshness of space now form lightweight, durable car co...
Car Dealership Discrimination Scandal, Recalls and Market Shifts
Sep 16, 2025The automotive world still has a discrimination problem, and this episode dives deep into a shocking case that cost two Missouri dealerships $275,000 in settlement fees. When Landmark Dodge Ram and Landmark Chrysler Jeep were caught refusing to hire women for sales positions and men for office roles, the EEOC stepped in with a lawsuit that revealed disturbing practices and attitudes. Former HR employees testified that management claimed "women didn't have the respect necessary" for car sales and that training them was "a waste of time."
Beyond this central story, we tackle the automotive recall landscape, including Ford's...
The Future of Cars: Student-Run Auto Shows and Luxury SUVs
Sep 15, 2025From $150 million in exotic cars managed by college students to the plush comfort of a six-figure luxury SUV, this episode of In Wheel Time takes you on a journey through the fascinating intersections of automotive education and innovation.
Katrina Ness, the 62nd general chair of the Northwood University International Auto Show, joins us to discuss what might be the most unique automotive event in America. As a fourth-year student pursuing her MBA, Katrina leads what she describes as "an organization with the most turnover" - a completely student-run auto show featuring hypercars, racing vehicles, and nearly every...
Behind the Scenes at Savoy Car Museum's Connection Show
Sep 12, 2025The Savoy Car Museum's annual Connection Car Show has evolved into a spectacular gathering of automotive enthusiasts, exceeding all expectations in its third year. Located in Cartersville, Georgia, between Atlanta and Chattanooga, this expanding event showcases the passion and diversity of car culture across the Southeast.
Mary Argusza takes us behind the scenes as spectators line up before dawn, eager to experience both the outdoor car show and the museum's impressive indoor exhibits. The museum itself spans 60,000 square feet with five distinct galleries, featuring a strategic rotation system that ensures fresh experiences for repeat visitors. Currently, guests...
When Grandpa Should Park It...
Sep 11, 2025Deciding when an elderly parent should stop driving ranks among family life's most challenging conversations. Now, General Motors is developing technology to transform this emotional decision into a data-driven process. Their innovative "driver retirement score" system monitors everything from reaction times to proper use of turn signals, even tracking how often other drivers honk at the vehicle. This comprehensive approach could revolutionize how families approach driving cessation discussions with aging relatives.
The timing couldn't be more critical. With nearly 52 million licensed drivers over 65 in America—a 77% increase in just two decades—we're facing unprecedented road safety challenges. Acco...
Regrettable Rides, Texas Trains, and the new Palisade
Sep 10, 2025Climb aboard as we journey through Texas heritage railways and drive some of the most disappointing dream cars ever made. This episode starts with a nostalgic look at Texas' historic train routes transformed into tourist attractions. From the inmate-built Texas State Railroad to the Grapevine Vintage Railroad's themed excursions (including beer trains and Thomas the Tank Engine days), we explore how these metal ribbons of history now create new memories for visitors.
The conversation shifts gears dramatically when we reveal six dream cars that owners deeply regret purchasing. The Mercedes CLS Shooting Brake with its endless repair...
Teen Driving Dangers: What Parents Need to Know
Sep 09, 2025The financial shock of adding a teenage driver to your insurance policy can feel like a sucker punch to your wallet. In Texas, parents face an average premium increase of 114% – the fourth highest in the nation according to WalletHub analyst Chip Lupo, our special guest this week. While Texas ranks middle-of-the-pack (28th) for teen driver fatalities, this statistic offers little comfort to parents navigating the treacherous waters of teen driving safety and skyrocketing insurance costs.
Diving into strategies that actually work, our hosts share personal experiences with driver education approaches across generations. We explore the evolving landscape fr...
Road Safety Spotlight: School Buses, Pedestrians, and Dream Cars
Sep 08, 2025Road safety takes center stage in this eye-opening episode where we tackle the often misunderstood rules of school bus safety. When those yellow lights start flashing, too many drivers make potentially deadly mistakes. We break down exactly what you need to do when approaching a school bus on various road types and why following these rules is absolutely critical for protecting our children.
We uncover a concerning reality about vehicle safety technology that many drivers don't realize—while your car's sensors might detect other vehicles, older models often completely miss pedestrians. This technological blind spot creates serious ri...
Rusty Gold: How One Woman Revolutionized Car Auctions
Sep 05, 2025Labor Day Replay:
A divine prophecy, a kitchen cupboard full of auction school applications, and a career-defining first sale scheduled right after 9/11 – these unlikely elements converged to launch Yvette Vanderbrink into the world of automotive auctioneering, where she's spent 25 years specializing in barn finds and collector vehicles that others often don't know how to handle.
Vanderbrink takes us behind the scenes of her recent Montana auction featuring 604 vehicles from three generations of collecting, explaining the logistical nightmares of conducting sales in remote locations with no cell service or electricity. With refreshing candor, she shares stories of...
Holy Hemis! A Tour of Automotive Treasures
Sep 04, 2025Labor Day Replay:
Step inside the legendary Hemi Hideout, where automotive dreams come to life in spectacular fashion. Once housed in a simple barn, John Hovas's remarkable Mopar collection now resides in this purpose-built sanctuary that celebrates American muscle in its most glorious forms.
The collection tells a story that began when John was just 18 years old in 1970, explaining his particular affinity for vehicles from that era. From the moment you walk in, you're surrounded by automotive royalty – numbers-matching rarities that represent some of the most sought-after configurations in Mopar history.
The stars of...
2026 Hyundai Ioniq 9: Luxury Meets Electric in a Full-Size Package
Sep 03, 2025Luxury electric vehicles have reached a new milestone with the 2026 Hyundai Ioniq 9, a groundbreaking full-size three-row SUV that combines spaciousness, cutting-edge design, and impressive electric performance. Fresh off the assembly line in Ellabelle, Georgia, this American-made Korean masterpiece showcases what happens when minimalist aesthetics meet maximum functionality.
The exterior strikes an immediate impression with its clean, horizontal elements and distinctive lighting signatures that give it a unique presence on the road. But it's inside where the Ioniq 9 truly shines. The spacious interior accommodates up to nine passengers across various configurations, though the six-passenger layout with second-row captain's...
Behind the Wheel with IHRA Division Director Doug Foley
Sep 02, 2025Labor Day Replay:
Drag racing fans rejoice! The International Hot Rod Association (IHRA) is roaring back onto the scene with a full revival that includes the return of Top Fuel racing after a 15-year absence. Division Director Doug Foley joins us to share the exciting developments happening within one of drag racing's most storied organizations.
Founded in 1971 by Larry Carrier at Bristol International Speedway, IHRA has long represented an alternative approach to drag racing. After recent ownership changes, the organization has recommitted to both grassroots racing and professional nitro categories with a fresh perspective. Foley...
Courtney Enders: NHRA TV's Newest Star
Sep 01, 2025LABOR DAY REPLAY:
Courtney Enders brings her infectious enthusiasm and deep drag racing knowledge to this episode as she discusses her exciting new role with NHRA TV. As the sister of six-time Pro Stock champion Erica Enders, Courtney offers a unique insider perspective on the sport while carving her own path in racing media.
Speaking from her temporary home in snowy Stratford, Ontario, Courtney shares the whirlwind journey that led to her joining the NHRA broadcast team alongside veterans like Dave Freiburger. What makes her story particularly compelling is how she's balancing multiple professional roles...
Automotive Evolution: From Digital Keys to Haunted Evacuation Spots
Aug 29, 2025Digital car keys are changing how we access and interact with our vehicles forever. While fobs and physical keys have been the standard for decades, smartphone-based digital keys are gaining incredible momentum—set to quadruple from 15 million to 59 million vehicles by 2031. This transformation extends far beyond just unlocking doors.
The technology has evolved remarkably since Siemens introduced a credit card-sized precursor for Mercedes in the 1990s. Today's digital keys allow unprecedented flexibility: share access with family via WhatsApp, set speed restrictions for teen drivers, or even authorize Amazon delivery personnel to securely leave packages in your trunk. BM...
From Museum to Market: The Larry Klairmont Collection Hits the Auction Block
Aug 28, 2025Automotive passion takes center stage as we welcome Matt Avery, co-host of Mecum in the Morning and veteran automotive journalist with nearly two decades of industry experience. Matt shares his fascinating journey from luxury car technician to content creator, explaining how his mechanical background and storytelling skills perfectly positioned him for his current role at Mecum Auctions.
The conversation shifts to an exciting upcoming event - Larry's Legacy auction featuring the extensive collection of Chicago collector Larry Klairmont. This museum-quality assemblage includes 275 vehicles and over 1,000 pieces of memorabilia, all selling at no reserve. Matt walks us through...
Escaping Hurricane Season: What Your Car Color Says About You: GR Carolla Review
Aug 27, 2025Tired of the same old hurricane evacuation routine? We've compiled a guide to turning your necessary departure into a memorable Texas adventure. Instead of crowding into chain hotels with your family and pets, consider charming destinations like Luckenbach and Fredericksburg with their creek-side cabins, dance halls, wineries, and boutiques. Or venture east to Jefferson, one of Texas's most haunted towns, complete with ghost-filled hotels, antique shopping, and riverboat tours through atmospheric bayous.
For families, Glen Rose offers the prehistoric wonder of Dinosaur Valley State Park where kids can track real dinosaur footprints, while Bandera—the self-proclaimed "Cowboy Ca...
From Model Cars to Custom Classics: The Art of Randy Borcheding
Aug 26, 2025Randy Borcheding of PaintHouse offers a fascinating glimpse into the world of high-end custom car creation, where artistry meets engineering in spectacular fashion. His latest masterpiece – a 1970 Mercury Cougar convertible finished in a custom "Short Bus Pearl" yellow – recently claimed Best Custom at the Craig Bierman show and is headed to the prestigious Triple Crown event in Nashville.
What makes Randy's approach unique is his blend of traditional craftsmanship with cutting-edge technology. The Cougar represents a "what if" concept car that Mercury never built – a convertible version of their Eliminator performance package. Beyond its flawless paint, the car fe...
Durango Diaries: Road Tripping with 710 Horsepower
Aug 25, 2025Jack Nerad takes us on a thrilling ride through America's heartland in a monstrous 710-horsepower Dodge Durango SRT Hellcat. This wasn't just any road trip – it was the "Made in America Tour" meticulously planned by Jack's wife, combining their love of baseball with an exploration of America's cultural landmarks. From Chicago to Milwaukee, through Michigan's Upper Peninsula, Detroit, Cleveland, Pittsburgh and back, they visited major league ballparks, the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, Pro Football Hall of Fame, and Greenfield Village.
What surprised Jack most was how the beast beneath the hood became a gentle giant on...
Recalls, Robots, and Ridiculous Concepts: This Week in Cars
Aug 22, 2025Have car manufacturers been building vehicles the same way for too long? Ford's CEO Jim Farley thinks so, announcing a staggering $6 billion investment in what they're calling the "Universal EV Production System." This revolutionary approach abandons the traditional assembly line in favor of an "assembly tree" using three sub-assemblies with large aluminum castings and a structural battery that get joined together later.
The ambitious manufacturing overhaul promises 20% fewer parts, 40% fewer workstations, and 15% faster assembly times. But as we unpack in this episode, Wall Street's response was lukewarm at best, raising questions about whether this represents genuine innovation...
Ghost Towns and Hot Rods
Aug 21, 2025Ever lost a key fob and faced sticker shock at the replacement cost? Our opening segment breaks down what you might pay—from $50 for basic aftermarket options to a whopping $600 for luxury proximity fobs. It's a practical reminder to keep those small but essential accessories safe.
The heart of our episode features Rob Burley sharing details about his remarkable Labor Day weekend event at Moody Gardens in Galveston. What began as a classic car auction has transformed into something much more meaningful following devastating floods in the Texas Hill Country. With 100% of concert ticket sales being donated to...
Beyond the Beaten Path: Car Culture, Getaway Destinations and the Alpha Romeo Tonale
Aug 20, 2025Ready to hit the road for Labor Day weekend? We've got you covered with unforgettable Texas destinations that promise adventure, relaxation, and everything in between. From the Victorian charm of Jefferson in the piney woods to the artistic desert oasis of Marfa, we're exploring getaways that take you off the beaten path. Looking for coastal vibes? Discover Palacios, the "Shrimp Capital of Texas" where fishing, kayaking, and seafood create the perfect holiday escape. For cooler temperatures, we recommend the mountain scenery of Fort Davis or the crystal-clear waters of the Frio River at Garner State Park.
The...
Concrete Trucks and Corvettes: The Surprisingly Accessible World of Amateur Racing
Aug 19, 2025Ever wondered if you could experience the thrill of competitive motorsports without breaking the bank or risking damage to your beloved vehicle? This episode pulls back the curtain on one of the automotive world's best-kept secrets – the incredibly accessible world of amateur racing through the Sports Car Club of America.
Blair Deffenbaugh, SCCA spokesperson and second-generation member, joins us to demystify the organization's various programs that welcome drivers of all skill levels. We learn that autocross – competitive driving through cone courses in parking lots – offers "low speed and high confidence" perfect for beginners. Blair explains how literally any ro...
Restoring a Roadrunner: A Father's Legacy
Aug 18, 2025A 1968 Plymouth Roadrunner sits dormant in the corner of Apex Auto Works, carrying with it the weight of memory and loss. For Richard Tomlin, this muscle car isn't just a project—it's a living connection to his father, who died in the 1995 Oklahoma City bombing. After years of seeing it gather dust, Richard has finally found the perfect reason to breathe new life into this family heirloom.
The catalyst came from an unexpected source: a customer discussing his dream of racing Pikes Peak in a car like the one he once shared with his own father—who had...
Garbage Cans and Corvettes: Our Hilarious Take on Classic Car Pricing
Aug 15, 2025Fancy yourself a classic car pricing expert? Our latest episode puts that knowledge to the test as we dive into the fascinating world of Hemmings auction results, where perception and reality often collide in surprising ways.
The conversation kicks off with a beautifully maintained 1956 Ford Victoria sporting fender skirts and what our hosts playfully debate might be "hoodlum" wheel covers. When the hammer fell at $18,375, it set the tone for a journey through automotive history and collector valuation that would deliver several shocks along the way.
Nothing demonstrates the unpredictable nature of classic car values...
Lakeside Escapes in Texas
Aug 14, 2025Tired of crowded beaches and saltwater? We're diving into six incredible lake destinations across Texas that offer everything from secluded cabin getaways to luxury resort experiences for your next family vacation.
Our journey begins in the serene pine forests of East Texas at Deer Lake Cabins Ranch Resort, where lakefront cabins provide the perfect basecamp for horseback riding, fishing, and unplugged family reconnection. For nature enthusiasts, Canyon of the Eagles on Lake Buchanan delivers hiking trails, observatory stargazing, and wildlife experiences in a scenic setting that eco-conscious families will love.
We explore the nostalgic charm...
Boxer Engine Meets Battery: Subaru's Boxy Beauty
Aug 13, 2025Discover why the 2025 Subaru Forester Hybrid might be the perfect balance of city practicality and outdoor adventure capability. This week, we dive deep into Subaru's newest hybrid offering, exploring how it stands out in an increasingly crowded crossover market.
The Forester has long been a favorite among outdoor enthusiasts, but this new hybrid variant takes things to another level. With its distinctive boxy design, the Forester makes no apologies for prioritizing function alongside form. Depending on your chosen trim level—and there are plenty to choose from—the aesthetic ranges from sophisticated urban crossover to trail-ready adventure mach...
Why These 5 Vintage Trucks Deserve a Second Chance on the Road
Aug 12, 2025Dust off those wrenches and prepare for a nostalgic journey through American automotive history! We're diving deep into the world of truck restoration with our carefully curated list of five classic pickups that deserve a second chance at life.
The humble truck has evolved from pure utility vehicle to sought-after collector's item, with certain models commanding impressive prices and passionate followings. From the beloved 1972 Chevrolet C10 with its perfect blend of style and simplicity to the surprisingly quick 1979 Dodge Little Red Express (which, believe it or not, was the fastest American-made vehicle in 1978!), we explore what makes...
Pioneering Wheels: From Bertha Benz to James Bond's Submarine Car
Aug 11, 2025Buckle up for a thrilling ride through automotive history's most fascinating turning points! From daring pioneers to corporate chess moves, our latest episode uncovers the moments that revolutionized how we move through the world.
We kick things off with the remarkable story of Bertha Benz, who in 1888 essentially "borrowed" her husband's invention without permission and embarked on a 66-mile journey that would change transportation forever. Imagine purchasing fuel from a pharmacy, making roadside repairs yourself, and proving to a skeptical world that automobiles weren't just novelties but practical machines with real potential. This audacious act by Bertha...
Death and Dagmars: The Alarming Truth About US Highway Safety
Aug 08, 2025The alarming disparity between US and Canadian traffic fatality rates takes center stage in our latest podcast. While road deaths have surged 33% in America over a decade, our northern neighbors have managed to reduce theirs – but why? We dive deep into the fascinating research from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety that reveals how different enforcement approaches and policies might explain this life-or-death difference.
Our discussion explores how pedestrian and cyclist deaths jumped 64% in the US while falling 17% in Canada, and how truck-related fatalities show an even more dramatic contrast. Could it be that American resistance to au...
Driving Into Tomorrow: Education, Careers, and Car Culture
Aug 07, 2025The automotive industry is undergoing a profound transformation that's reshaping how we think about careers in vehicle repair and maintenance. Gone are the days when becoming a mechanic simply meant learning from your dad in the garage. Today's automotive technicians need sophisticated computer skills alongside traditional mechanical aptitude.
Hugh Mann from Houston Community College joins us to discuss the evolving landscape of automotive education and the lucrative career paths available to those with proper training. "You almost feel like you gotta have an IT degree to work on them sometimes," Hugh notes when discussing modern vehicles with...
Off-beat San Antonio, Kia Niro, and Car Grill'n with Jeff!
Aug 06, 2025Ever wondered what treasures hide beyond San Antonio's famous Alamo? Our latest automotive adventure uncovers the city's best-kept secrets that most tourists miss entirely.
Imagine 15 million Mexican free-tailed bats emerging at dusk in a spectacle so massive it appears on weather radar and can be seen from space. This natural wonder at Bracken Cave outshines Austin's famous bat bridge and represents just one of San Antonio's hidden gems. We also explore the eccentric burial site of Sandra West, interred in her beloved 1964 Ferrari, and the haunting Hot Wells of Bexar ruins where 19th-century celebrities once relaxed. For...
White Broncos, Pope Mobiles, and Golf Course Interviews
Aug 05, 2025Ted Ryan, Ford's Heritage Brand Manager, joins us from a golf course to share exciting news about the 60th anniversary of the Ford Bronco. The special commemorative model features stunning Wimbledon white paint with red accents, including the Bronco name spelled out in red on the hood and "1966" embedded in the hubcaps. The original Bronco was unveiled on August 11, 1965, when Ford handed reporters cowboy hats and scarves, telling them "let's go rodeo" before introducing what would become an American icon.
Ryan shares delightful stories about the Bronco's enduring appeal - from his 84-year-old father who's on his...
Barn Finds, Fire Trucks, and the Kia Niro
Aug 04, 2025What happens when a prophet tells you to become an auctioneer? For Yvette Vanderbrink, it launched a 25-year career specializing in automotive barn finds and collections. Her extraordinary journey from hospital worker to renowned auctioneer began when a minister at her church mysteriously knew about auction school application papers she'd hidden in her kitchen cupboard.
Yvette shares the struggles and triumphs of breaking into the male-dominated auction world, including how she handled sexist comments and established her reputation through innovative marketing. When one man told her to "make a sandwich and let the boys do it," she...
Hot Wheels Tour Rolls into Houston
Aug 01, 2025Ever dreamed of seeing your custom car immortalized as a Hot Wheels die-cast model? That dream could become reality as the Hot Wheels Legends Tour rolls into Houston on Saturday, August 2nd.
We're joined by Eric Hahn, lead designer at Hot Wheels, who pulls back the curtain on this extraordinary traveling car show. Now in its eighth year, the Legends Tour has become a global phenomenon where builders showcase their custom creations for a chance at Hot Wheels immortality. The Houston stop promises to be spectacular, with hundreds of unique vehicles expected to fill the Walmart parking...
7,100 Miles of American Backroads in a Subaru Crosstrek
Jul 31, 2025Ever wondered what it would be like to cross America primarily on dirt roads? Andy and Mercedes Lilienthal let us ride shotgun on their extraordinary Transamerica Trail adventure – a jaw-dropping 7,100-mile journey with over 3,100 miles on unpaved terrain, all completed in just 29 days.
The couple's modified 2025 Subaru Crosstrek Wilderness proved remarkably capable, conquering elevations approaching 13,000 feet in Colorado and withstanding temperatures ranging from freezing to a sweltering 111°F in Moab. Their detailed walkthrough of the vehicle's modifications reveals the thoughtful preparation behind such an ambitious journey – from the Thule rooftop tent and ARB awning to the critical Primi...
Hidden Houston, Guiness Recored Breaking Cars, and the new Chevy Blazer EV SS AWD!
Jul 30, 2025Houston reveals itself as a treasure trove of unexpected adventures for locals and visitors alike. From art deco aviation history to underwater shark tunnels, our exploration uncovers destinations perfect for beating the Texas heat and creating memorable experiences right in your backyard.
The 1940 Air Terminal Museum at Hobby Airport stands as a stunning architectural time capsule, preserving aviation heritage with vintage uniforms and airline memorabilia in an elegant setting that now hosts weddings and events. For underwater thrills without getting wet, Downtown Aquarium's Shark Voyage takes riders through a 200,000-gallon tunnel surrounded by magnificent predators including an 18...