Victory Lane: Recent Episodes
Davey Segal
Welcome to the place everybody wants to be: Victory Lane! Davey Segal hosts your one stop shop for all things NASCAR, including news, discussion, interviews and more.
influencers in the NASCAR space, the newly released Jason Kelce collab and more, including who she still wants to get out to the track, whether she gets starstruck or not, how she helps plan schedules minute-by-minute and what she sees the future of the space looking like.Davey also discusses the sudden and tragic passing of Kyle Busch, and the life and legacy he leaves behind.
Fresh off his Talladega Superspeedway victory with Corey Day, Hendrick Motorsports O'Reilly Auto Parts Series Crew Chief Adam Wall joins Davey Segal (1:55) to discuss and debrief their first win together of 2026. Wall explains why he was a bit surprised to see win No. 1 come at a superspeedway, the ups and downs so far for Day in his rookie campaign, reflects on working with 7 different drivers last season, how preparation differs from the Cup Series to NOAPS these days, how much an engineer can really tweak on a Gen 7 car and more.Plus, how he got hooked on racing with no real background in it, how he rose from sweeping floors (literally) at Hendrick to become an engineer and eventual crew chief, what he's learned from working under Cliff Daniels, how he's grown as a leader of the team, how much raw talent Day has, working with current (and future) Hall of Fame drivers, lofty goals for the rest of the season and more.
Longtime crew chief Frank Kerr joins Davey Segal (1:45) to dive into his extensive career in motorsports, both behind the wheel and atop the pit box. Kerr details what it's like working with Brennan Poole and for Alpha Prime Racing, the unique relationship he has with both his driver and team owner, working with other drivers in the past, his two wins in the then Nationwide Series with Marcos Ambrose and more.Kerr explains why he still to this day misses the feeling of being behind the wheel of a sprint car, why he opted to walk away as a winner with some still left in the tank and how the transition to becoming a crew chief and working in NASCAR happened. Plus, some of his gnarliest injuries, a Cup car falling on him (yes, really) at Bristol, what else he'd like to accomplish in his career, at APR and more.
The mayor of Hinchtown himself, James Hinchcliffe, joins Davey Segal (1:45) to debrief his first experience in NASCAR wheeling a Truck around the St. Petersburg streets for Spire Motorsports. He explains how the deal came together, his long relationship with Spire, how impressed the IndyCar paddock was with the series and the chances of him doing something like this again.Hinch also dives into his current roles with IndyCar on FOX , SiriusXM and Formula 1, explains why he's always had an interest for motorsports journalism, how he handles having to criticize fellow drivers and friends, the influence Greg Moore had on him and his perspective on the harrowing qualifying crash at Indy.Plus, his runner-up result on Dancing with the Stars, his beard routine, marrying his high school sweetheart, if he's ever actually considered running for Mayor anywhere and more, including some his favorite tracks around the world and what else is on his racing bucket list behind the wheel.
Fresh from Daytona, Davey and his better half Robin are back to debrief and dissect all that went down during Speedweek from the World Center of Racing. Davey gets the lowdown on his wife's first experience watching the 500 in person, if it felt different than other races/tracks she's been to before, Tyler Reddick's triumphant win and Michael Jordan's jubilation, Chase picks and more.
It's been a minute, but Davey Segal is back and at Daytona International Speedway to kick off the 2026 season! He provides an update on the podcast, what he's been up to the last few months and what we can expect from the season ahead.
NASCAR legend and avid outdoorsman Ward Burton joins Davey Segal this week (2:45) in advance of the State Water Heaters Krush 250 at South Boston Speedway, benefitting the Ward Burton Wildlife Foundation. Burton explains how the idea of the race came together, why and when his passion for the outdoors came into focus and more.Plus, his thoughts on Sam Mayer's suspension after spinning his son Jeb at Martinsville, the state of NASCAR in 2025, the playoff format, the lore of him snatching snakes online, how he got his name (spoiler alert: it's not really Ward), memories of Bill Davis, winning the 2002 Daytona 500 and more. Davey also previews the Championship 4 at Phoenix Raceway for all 3 national series
All good things come to an end, and 2025 marks the end of an institutional powerhouse in Venturini Motorsports. The patriarch of the organization, Bill Venturini, joins Davey Segal (3:45) to reflect and reminisce on the several decades of ownership in the ARCA Menards Series. From humble beginnings in Chicago to the high banks of Daytona, Big Bill was there every step of the way, with his wife Cathy by his side.He explains why now is the right time to step away from the sport, what made Nick Tucker and Nitro Motorsports the right group to take things over, how proud he is of his son, Billy, who has run day-to-day operations (who makes a surprise appearance!), why the ARCA Menards Series has been the right platform for them all these years, how he feels about the health of the series, the legacy he feels like he's leaving behind and more.Plus, how the patented Victory Lane kiss originated, their relationship with Toyota, his plans in retirement, how the feeling of winning races and developing drivers differ and much more.
2025 and two-time Advance Auto Parts Weekly Series champion Jacob Goede joins Davey Segal (2:05) on the heels of clinching another title in the Midwest. He explains the commitment it's taken for him to forgo a normal life to chase trophies and a championship, how his family-owned team has been all hands on deck, how much pride he takes in representing the Midwest, how the racing scene in that part of the country plays itself out and the championship that he's still fighting for this weekend.Plus, his 25+ year career in racing, whether he'd entertain a CARS Tour or NASCAR opportunity, why running the Snowball Derby remains high on his bucket list and what else there is to accomplish for him professionally in motorsports.Davey also recaps the wild finish at Kansas Speedway and looks ahead to the Round of 12 cutoff race at the Charlotte Motor Speedway ROVAL.
TRICON Garage crew chief Scott Zipadelli returns to the podcast (9:10) on the heels of the No. 11's series-leading ninth win of the CRAFTSMAN Truck Series season. He dives into how successful and fun 2025 has been, their quest for double digit wins and an elusive championship. He also shares his strong opinions on the much discussed playoff format, why he prefers things the old way where more consistency was rewarded and coming to grips with the fact that they might only have a 25% chance at winning the championship this year in Phoenix.He also reflects on a special win at Lime Rock Park earlier this year, shares the weak spots for the No. 11 team right now, how good Corey Heim really is, being second on the NCTS all-time wins list as a shot caller and more, including his biggest competition for the title and if they've reflected on their 3+ years together as a group with the writing on the wall that this year may be the final one together.Plus, Davey recaps the Round of 12 opener at New Hampshire, Papa Segal pays homage to John Force and more.
Thomas Annunziata joins Davey Segal this week (2:25) to discuss his racing background and current happenings as a part-time Xfinity Series/Trans-Am driver. He dives into how he got started racing in parking lots in New Jersey, how his dad helped with a racing background of his own, the spec miata success he had and what he learned in that discipline, moving up to Trans-Am, competing against and with drivers he's doing the same with now, like Connor Zilisch, Brent Crews, Connor Mosack and more.Plus, he dives into his runner-up finish over the weekend in Portland, his Lime Rock Park victory in the ARCA Menards Series, improvement on ovals in the Xfinity Series, his 2026 plans, goals for the future and more, including where the nickname "Hollywood" came from, why he doesn't like Italian food and things he's learned now living by himself in North Carolina.Davey also recaps Chase Briscoe's dominating Southern 500 win from Darlington Raceway and looks ahead to Gateway, Race No. 2 of the Round of 12 in the NASCAR Playoffs.
23XI Racing crew chief Davin Restivo joins Davey Segal (2:30) ahead of the final 10 races of his rookie season atop the pit box with Riley Herbst. They discuss what the first 26 weeks have been like, if anything changes in their weekly approach being a non-playoff team, how the No. 35 team may be able to help the No.'s 23 and 45 while in the postseason, how much he's learned in his rookie year as a Cup Series shot caller and more.Restivo also details his background in the sport, getting started at the Truck Series level and working with Kyle Larson, ultimately landing at Stewart-Haas Racing and how he got the call that he'd be working with Herbst as his Xfinity Series crew chief after being an engineer for Aric Almirola in the Cup Series. He also dives into Herbst's groeth confidence behind the wheel, what it's like working for 23XI Racing, the Gen 7 platform and more, including what the next 10 weeks may hold for the No. 35 group.Davey also reaps the regular season finale at Daytona and looks ahead to the 2025 Cup Series playoffs that kick off at Darlington.
NASCAR veteran B.J. McLeod joins Davey Segal (7:25) for an all-encompassing conversation on and off track, including what it's been like without a charter, the transition personally and professionally to racing part-time, what his day-to-day looks like running Live Fast Motorsports, Katherine Legge's progression in the No. 78 this year and more.McLeod also dives into the charter system, explaining why it's a viable business model for decades to come, why he and Matt Tifft sold theirs and reveals why he's already chomping at the bit to get back in, given the right situation. He also discusses the Pigeon Forge Racing Coaster, why they built it, the genesis behind it and his passion for theme parks. Plus, selling sponsorship for a mid-pack/backmarker team, why he thinks he has so much respect from seemingly everyone in the garage, the determination to win a NASCAR race before he turns 50, his obsession with skulls and backwards hats and much, much more.Davey also reviews Austin Dillon's surprise Richmond win for the second consecutive year, looks ahead to the regular season finale at Daytona and Papa Segal looks back to Spingate.
RFK Racing crew chief and veteran of the industry Derrick Finley joins Davey Segal (2:40) to discuss working with Ryan Preece, why the Northeast racer stands out as one of the best Finley has ever worked with, the current push for the playoffs and battling a teammate for a postseason spot and how it is racing against and working for your boss in Brad Keselowski.Finley dives into his upbringing in New Mexico, the racing scene out West, playing football at UNM, why he chose mechanical engineering and motorsports after college, working for Dale Earnhardt Inc. fresh out of school (and some stories to boot), the mentorship he received from Travis Carter, getting the call to crew chief in Cup for the first time in 2003, stops at multiple organizations along the way, what brought him over to RFK Racing and why he got back atop the pit box for 2025 despite not really wanting to.Plus, the intricacies of working on a Gen 7 car in today's NASCAR, whether they're trying to win or point their way into the playoffs, the story behind his famous skull flame pants, his taste in rap music, interesting animal analogies and more. Davey also recaps another dominant road course performance from SVG and looks ahead to Richmond.
Austin Green joins Davey Segal (7:00) to discuss how things are going in the midst of his partial Xfinity Series season with Jordan Anderson Racing. Gearing up for another road course in Watkins Glen, they discuss why the road course moniker may be an inaccurate one given his background, how difficult it is getting used to heavier stock cars, switching between a Trans-Am, ARCA and Xfinity vehicle, his racing background and how big winning recently on the Charlotte oval in ARCA Menards Series competition was.Plus, Green details how his father David and uncles Mark and Jeff have helped him navigate his NASCAR journey, the influence they've had on his career thus far, helping Jordan Anderson Racing grow thanks to his road racing skills, avoiding the chaos during races, what his short and long term plans look like and more.Davey also recaps William Byron's win at Iowa, looks ahead to what might be another SVG dominant performance at The Glen and Papa Segal pays homage to a legendary finish and road racer.
Rev Racing and Alpha Prime Racing’s Lavar Scott joins Davey Segal this week (6:15) to dissect his first career Xfinity Series start at his home track of Dover Motor Speedway, the emotions of having to qualify his way in, what he learned during the race and how everything was heightened with over 100 friends and family members in attendance.Scott also dives into his racing background as a third generation driver, what he was able to learn from his mom and grandfather growing up, the reason for him pursuing circle track racing and not straight line drag racing, competing with his brother growing up, applying for and getting accepted into the Diversity program with Rev Racing, moving to North Carolina at 16-years-old to live in a trailer with his grandmother and more, including his commitment to fitness and nutrition, how his second year in ARCA competition has been going and what his 5-10 year plan in NASCAR looks like.Plus, Davey recaps Bubba Wallace’s Brickyard 400 win at Indianapolis Motor Speedway, looks ahead to Iowa Speedway and Papa Segal pays homage to The Voice of NASCAR.
Mason Massey joins Davey Segal (8:40) to look ahead to his first start at the Brickyard and discuss how his partial schedule with Alpha Prime Racing in the Xfinity Series has been going thus far. They dive into how it is running part-time, what Tommy Joe Martins is like as a boss, why he’s a team first type of driver and more, including his racing background in Georgia that saw him transition from asphalt to dirt before coming back to asphalt and making it in NASCAR.Massey also opens up about his stutter, why he decided to go public with it several years ago, the sense of responsibility he felt to bring awareness to it and how his work away from the track has helped the next generation face their fears with stutters. Plus, how he gets his mustache to look so good, his real name (hint: it’s not Mason), realistic expectations for the rest of 2025 and more.Davey also recaps Denny Hamlin’s impressive victory at Dover, looks ahead to Indianapolis Motor Speedway and Papa Segal pays homage to Gary Nelson.
Aussie Aussie Aussie, Oi Oi Oi! Kaulig Racing crew chief Andrew Dickeson joins Davey Segal (8:55) as their cinderella run in the inaugural In-Season Challenge continues. He walks through what it was like for him atop the pit box as Ty Dillon moved Alex Bowman out of the way for a spot in the Final Four, how confidence and performance have gone hand in hand (and up) in the last month, the culture he's attempting to create on the No. 10 team, arriving at the track with a chip on their shoulder and why he believes in his driver.Dickeson, an Australian native, also dives into his background in motorsports (spoiler alert: he had none), how he got his hands dirty in Supercars, simultaneously working in racing, bartending and getting his engineering degree, the decision to pack up and move across the world to pursue a career in NASCAR, how he went about finding a job with race teams and his progression up the engineering ladder that eventually led him to becoming a crew chief. Plus, a hilarious story involving Richard Childress calling Dickeson while in Australia (and maybe a bit inebriated) asking him to become the full-time shot caller on the No. 10.Dickeson also explains the similarities between U.S. and Australian racing culture, why Marcos Ambrose deserves more credit for helping NASCAR's image down under, what it's like working at Kaulig Racing, expectations for the rest of the season and more.Davey also reviews another SVG dominant performance in Sonoma, previews the Monster Mile in Dover and Papa Segal pays homage to one of the best to ever strap in behind the wheel on road courses: Dan Gurney.
Toyota development and current Venturini Motorsports driver Isabella Robusto joins Davey Segal (6:55) to discuss her unique background in motorsports and already impressive career to this point. She explains how she prepares for a race during the week and on the weekend, how she eventually won over her mom (literally) after being a bit skeptical of her racing at a young age, what it was like competing directly against her brother on track and how the progression up the ladder was for her.She also dives into the concussion she suffered at Hickory in a late model crash and the 10+ month recovery that followed, what she learned during the process and why she's an advocate for educating other female racers about the importance of head injuries, the memorable first trip to an intermediate track this season for Venturini Motorsports, why she's majoring in aerospace engineering at Arizona State while racing full-time, getting the call from Toyota to be a part of their driver development program, how she approaches being a woman in a male-dominated industry and more, including her escapades as a kicker for her high school football team, sneaker collecting hobbies, her path to eventually become a Cup Series driver and more.Davey also chats about Shane van Gisbergen's Chicago Street Course win, the success of the event in year three, looks ahead to Sonoma and Papa Segal pays homage to Tony Glover.
Trackhouse Racing Senior Performance Engineer Jose Blasco-Figueroa joins Davey Segal (5:45) to discuss what his role encompasses and how its evolved over the years in motorsports. He explains how technology has advanced over the years, how internet going down at the track takes him back to the old days of racing, his background working for General Motors in Mexico City, dropping off résumé's to race teams in the Charlotte area, eventually getting a call back (from multiple teams in mere minutes!) and going to work for BK Racing and learning on the job.Being a Mexico City native, Blasco-Figueroa details how special it was to compete at Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez this year, the wild three-week stretch that included him becoming an American citizen, winning the Coca-Cola 600 and in Mexico City, addresses the news of Daniel Suarez not returning to the team in 2026, helps preview the Chicago Street Course weekend and more.Davey also reviews Chase Elliott's thrilling victory in Atlanta at EchoPark Speedway, looks ahead to the Windy City and Papa Segal pays homage to Larry McClure.
Toyota development driver Brent Crews joins Davey Segal (9:10) ahead of his second career CRAFTSMAN Truck Series start at Lime Rock Park for TRICON Garage. He explains how he prepares for his part-time starts, pulling double duty with the ARCA Menards Series, leaning on teammates and his past experience and why this weekend's event may be a good measuring stick at a first-time track for the series.He also dives into how he got involved in racing and why soccer wasn't for him, growing up in Hickory around the racing scene and racing anything and everything, competing internationally in karting and winning all over the world, counting down the days until he can run on intermediates, the cool opportunity he has coming up in Chicago and more.Plus, his guilty pleasure meal at Waffle House, his passion for fishing, why he wants his legacy to be in the GOAT conversation, how impactful Toyota has been in his career, what he's learned in each racing discipline along the way, whether he feels any pressure being one of the most highly touted prospects in the sport and more.Davey also recaps Chase Briscoe's Pocono win, briefly touches on Mexico City, looks ahead to Lime Rock and Atlanta and Papa Segal pays homage to a legendary figure in Pocono history.
Five-time NASCAR Mexico Series champion Rubén García Jr. joins Davey Segal (6:00) to reminisce on days gone by and look ahead to the NASCAR Cup Series’ inaugural trip to Mexico City. He updates us on what he’s been up to since returning to Mexico, if he feels like the Jimmie Johnson of the Mexico Series, how the competition compares to that of stock car racing in the United States, why he feels like the Mexico Series feels like late model racing and the “Winston Cup mindset,” doing more with less, how much Mexican racing fans follow racing in America, differences in race strategy, how well known Daniel Suarez is to Mexicans and more.García Jr. also explains his thought process in coming to the U.S. to participate in the Rev Racing Drive for Diversity program in the 2010s, what the entire experience was like, pulling double duty in the states and Mexico a few times and the relief of finally winning a K&N Pro Series race. He also discusses his upbringing in motorsports, highlights an oval or two in Mexico that may be suitable for the Cup Series, his limited experience racing in the national series and why he’d love an opportunity to return to America to try his hand at NASCAR in the states again. Plus, the deal that came close to being done to put him in a competitive Cup car at Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez and what fans and drivers alike can expect when they arrive at the track.Davey also recaps Denny Hamlin’s Michigan win, looks ahead to Mexico City and Papa Segal pays homage to a namesake of the circuit this weekend in CDMX.
Joe Gibbs Racing jackman Derrell Edwards joins Davey Segal (8:30) to discuss how he went from a kid from Baltimore, to a High Point University basketball player to one of the best jackmen in the NASCAR Cup Series. He details his childhood and how it's shaped him into the man he's become today, keeping his mind focused on the task at hand while dealing with a loved one in failing health, how he's developed the aura of winning and why manifesting is so crucial to his success.Edwards also explains how his winning mindset has permeated the No. 20 team at Joe Gibbs Racing, the chemistry that the team has developed over 4+ years together, how fast a 4-tire stop can/will get, why a driver change impacts a pit crew more than you'd think, why the jackman is like the quarterback of the pit crew, how impactful switching from five lugs to one was for a jackman and why flying is an undercovered aspect of pit crews doing their jobs.Plus, how he got involved with NASCAR in the first place, his humble beginnings with Richard Childress Racing, grinding his way to the top, why he always opts to pay it forward and help out younger athletes, the importance of family in his life and more, including what's next to accomplish in his professional career.Davey also recaps Ryan Blaney's win at Nashville, previews Michigan and Papa Segal pays homage to Pop Pop.
Sam Hunt Racing Crew Chief Kris Bowen joins Davey Segal (7:05) to discuss building up their current Xfinity Series outfit and how things are going working with Dean Thompson full-time. Bowen explains how and where the recent strides and speed has come from on the No. 26 team, his relationship with Thompson, why having kids of his own helps him work with drivers, how having a racing background himself has made the transition to crew chief a rather smooth one and the decision making process behind hanging up the steering wheel for good.Bowen also dives into his relationship with owner Sam Hunt, why it works despite Hunt being a decade younger than him, the satisfaction he gets from building something from the ground up, why he has no plans or desires to go anywhere else in NASCAR, his dedication to fitness (5 am crossfit workouts for 15 years!), his unhealthy gummy bear obsession to relieve stress atop the pit box, realistic expectations for the rest of the season and more.Davey also recaps the Coca-Cola 600, Ross Chastain's improbable march to victory, explains why the Prime Video broadcast was so good, looks ahead to Nashville and Papa Segal pays homage to Humpy Wheeler.
Veteran Crew Chief Mike Kelley joins Davey Segal (5:40) for a reflective and emotional trip down memory lane and deep dive behind Hyak Motorsports with Ricky Stenhouse Jr. Kelley explains how the team is punching above their weight right now in the NASCAR Cup Series, how they operate with no technical alliances in todays day and age and why he and Stenhouse have so much trust in one another.Kelley also recalls his early beginnings in motorsports, including some funny stories when he started working for Ernie Irvan (not as a driver, as he initially thought) and emotional ones while working as Michael Waltrip’s car chief at Dale Earnhardt Inc. Kelley opens up about why the 2001 Daytona 500 is still emotional for him, the relationship he had with Dale Earnhardt and how the team and sport moved forward following his passing.He also dives into winning the 2004 Cup championship with Kurt Busch at Roush, why earning that title meant so much to him, getting hooked up with Stenhouse Jr. as a young, baby-faced kid, winning back-to-back Xfinity Series championships and more, including his leadership style, why he takes pride in teaching the younger generation, his work with Lake Norman Humane and more.Plus, Davey discusses Christopher Bell’s All-Star win, looks ahead to the Coca-Cola 600, Kyle Larson’s double attempt and Papa Segal pays homage to 2026 NASCAR Hall of Fame inductee Ray Hendrick.
Richard Childress Racing Crew Chief Randall Burnett joins Davey Segal this week (5:40) to discuss how the 2025 season has been thus far, working with Kyle Busch, what he's learned from the two-time Cup Series champion and what the public misunderstands about Rowdy. They also discuss the one year anniversary of the infamous fight at North Wilkesboro Speedway (and Davey's assist in helping Kyle), his journey to Cup Series shot caller from the St. Louis area and how/why he opted to forgo his driving career to pursue an engineering degree at UNC Charlotte.Burnett also explains what it's like working for Hall of Famer Richard Childress, what it's like when he comes on the radio unprovoked, working with Kyle Larson in his rookie season at Chip Ganassi Racing, almost sweeping the crowned jewels in 2010 with Jamie McMurray, his son racing at Millbridge Speedway, Burnett's Mario Kart skills and more.Plus, Davey recaps Kansas, looks ahead to the All-Star Race and Papa Segal pays homage to Johnny Mantz.
Current Wood Brothers Racing crew chief and longtime Team Penske engineer Miles Stanley joins Davey Segal (5:15) for a wide-ranging conversation that dives into his career in motorsports and background in racing. Stanley discusses the treacherous nature of Texas Motor Speedway, how winning at Las Vegas Motor Speedway has allowed them to take more risks, when that win truly set in and how big winning a race for WBR really is.Stanley also discusses what he's learned from championship-winning crew chief Todd Gordon, who he worked with for over a decade, how working with all three current Team Penske drivers in some capacity has eased his transition to Josh Berry and the Wood Brothers, why he and Josh seem to be gelling so well so quickly and more.Plus, how he got started in motorsports with Formula SAE, his football career at Dayton and Akron, how racing engineering proved to be a career path for him, his transition from open wheel to stock cars, working with Robby Gordon Motorsports, why the Dakar Rally was one of the coolest experiences he's ever had, why his work at Penske as Head of Performance Engineering was so gratifying (hint: the last 3 championships in a row), why he doesn't go by his given name and more.Davey also recaps Joey Logano's win at Texas, previews Kansas and Papa Segal pays homage to Ron Bouchard.
Front Row Motorsports Crew Chief Jon Leonard (7:45) join Davey Segal this week to discuss his new digs at FRM calling the shots for Chandler Smith on the No. 38. Leonard details how late things came together to even make the second FRM Truck Series entry happen, the thrash that ensued to get things ready for Daytona, why Chandler being involved in the hiring process for team members has made everyone closer and how nice it was to get a win early this season at Bristol Motor Speedway.Leonard also discusses his career as a crew chief, calling races for Leavine-Family Racing in the Cup Series for Kasey Kahne and Regan Smith, being promoted admittedly a little too quickly, learning on the fly, being a first-generation racer turned 14-year NASCAR veteran and more.Davey also reviews Austin Cindric’s Talladega win, looks ahead to Texas and Papa Segal pays homage to one of the greatest of all-time in Formula 1.
That's right, party people. Seven-time NASCAR Cup Series champion, 83-time Cup Series winner, NASCAR Hall of Famer and one of if not the greatest NASCAR driver of all-time, Jimmie Johnson (!) joins Davey Segal this week (9:50) for one of the biggest conversations in Victory Lane history.They discuss how life has been living abroad in London, what the European culture has taught Johnson, being able to travel the world with friends and family, the new kind of horsepower his daughters are into, being a podcast host and more.Johnson explains why he wasn't even paying attention to his milestone 700th start coming up at Charlotte for the Coca-Cola 600, reveals his future plans for more races in the Cup Series and chats about the struggles LEGACY MOTOR CLUB has gone through since switching to Toyota. Johnson also looks back on his record-tying seventh championship and reveals what Richard Petty told him on pit road before the race, recalls the two (!) times he fell asleep behind the wheel of a racecar, the reasoning behind getting in shape and starting a trend within the garage back in 2007 and more.Davey also discusses the return to Rockingham Speedway last weekend and Papa Segal pays homage to the late Al Pearce.
19-year-old phenom and current Hendrick Motorsports driver Corey Day joins Davey Segal (8:55) to discuss his transition from dirt to asphalt and adjustment to stock cars. They also discuss how he's preparing for Bristol Motor Speedway this weekend, going back somewhere for a second time, how the Truck and Xfinity car differ, leaning on crew chiefs Brian Pattie and Adam Wall for advice and the clear distinction that's been made of him being a HMS driver - NOT a development driver.Day also dives into how Jeff Gordon recruited him to Hendrick and the funny story that resulted in Gordon having to prove it was actually him on the other end of their text conversation, how he's keeping his new busy schedule straight, why live pit stops and racing as a profession have been extra difficult to adjust to and his beginnings on two wheels and transition to dirt in California.Plus, how he deals with being heralded as a "generational talent" and "phenom" of sorts, why he loves the haters writing him off, how it feels to have the support and belief from Kyle Larson, Gordon and other racing legends, what his goals are for the rest of this year and more, including why he's such a Taco Bell lover.Papa Segal also pays homage to the late Eddie Jordan and Davey recaps Darlington while looking ahead to Bristol.
Championship winning crew chief Jonathan Toney joins Davey Segal (6:42) for an insightful and feel-good conversation that spans over two decades with one single team. Toney explains how working with Sheldon Creed in the NASCAR Xfinity Series really isn't too different so far than it was working with Cole Custer, the rash of runner-up finishes Creed has scored, team chemistry at Haas Factory Team in this new iteration of the organization and more.Toney also dives into all the change the team has seen over his time, from Haas CNC Racing to Stewart-Haas Racing and now HFT. He explains why he's stayed loyal to the company despite numerous offers to go elsewhere over the years, why the Xfinity Series is the right place for him to be as a crew chief right now from a work/life balance perspective, the conversations leading up to 2023 before he finally got his chance to be a crew chief for the first time and how rewarding it was to win a championship with Custer in his first year at the helm.Toney also reminisces on the 2011 title run with Tony Stewart, what it was like to be a part of that team, some memorable tales from Homestead-Miami Speedway on championship weekend and more, including the vibe at the team when Stewart came in at first and his Hickory, North Carolina roots.Davey also recaps the tripleheader weekend of action at Martinsville Speedway and addresses the debacle of an Xfinity race that saw Sammy Smith penalized, previews Darlington Raceway and Papa Segal pays homage to Raymond Parks in this week's wayback segment.
Ahead of his CRAFTSMAN Truck Series debut this weekend at Martinsville Speedway, reigning SMART Modified Tour champion Luke Baldwin joins Davey Segal (6:49) to discuss his excitement ahead of The Paperclip and why ThorSport Racing was the right team for his first foray into NASCAR's national series.Baldwin also explains how his preparation has been for a vehicle he's never raced before, what he and the No. 66 team are hoping to accomplish in their limited practice time and why Kansas and North Wilkesboro were the other races chosen for 2025. He also dives into his rapid ascension up the ranks, winning the SMART Modified Tour title last season as a rookie and how he even surprised himself a bit.Plus, how his father Tommy Baldwin Jr. has helped and influenced him along the way, convincing his mom to let him race, how busy his 2025 racing schedule is, pulling triple duty this weekend, how the Northeast racing culture has shaped him thus far, what his realistic expectations are for this weekend and more.Davey also recaps Kyle Larson's near weekend sweep from Homestead-Miami Speedway, looks ahead to The Paperclip and Papa Segal pays homage to Red Byron.
Veteran crew chief Trent Owens joins Davey Segal (5:45) to discuss his career in the sport and time thus far with Kaulig Racing. They dive into working with AJ Allmendinger once again, how the relationship has been thus far, capitalizing on road courses while trying to improve their oval track program, the "One Welcome" approach with Richard Childress Racing and information flow between the four crew chiefs at RCR and Kaulig.Owens also reflects on nearing 400 starts as a crew chief, working with countless drivers along the way, including Kyle Larson in 2013, his driving career in ARCA and Trucks, family connection to racing being related to Richard Petty and Barry Dodson, what he's learned from them and at his stops along the way and more, including how being a father of a child with autism has impacted him off track.Davey also recaps Josh Berry's impressive victory at Las Vegas Motor Speedway, looks ahead to Homestead-Miami Speedway and Papa Segal pays homage to a pioneer of NASCAR.
Front Row Motorsports crew chief Dylan Cappello joins Davey Segal (7:30) to discuss year two working with Layne Riggs in the CRAFTSMAN Truck Series, getting used to the No. 34 instead of the No. 38, how the 2025 season has gone so far and the stop/start nature of the Truck Series schedule. Cappello also discusses his relationship with Riggs, how Layne's father Scott has helped the team grow, which areas they're targeting for improvement and how adding a second full-time entry to the truck operation has changed things at FRM.Cappello also dives into his background as a racer growing up in Arizona, winning at The Bullring at Las Vegas a couple years ago, the decision to ultimately go down the engineering route instead of the driving one and the adjustment that entailed, winning a title at his home track in Phoenix in 2022, getting the promotion to crew chief and the challenges that have come along with that including being the "leader of men" for a race team and more.Davey also recaps Christopher Bell's third consecutive victory and the option tire in Phoenix, previews Las Vegas and Papa Segal pays homage to Suitcase Jake.
Motorsports jack-of-all-trades Katherine Legge joins Davey Segal (6:15) ahead of her Cup Series debut with Live Fast Motorsports at Phoenix Raceway to discuss how the deal came together, why she wishes it came a week or so earlier, any pride she feels becoming the first woman to compete in a Cup race in 7+ years, her "renewed sense of vigor" in stock cars as well as her her first Chili Bowl and ARCA experience.Legge also dives into some other women in racing she's looked up to throughout her motorsports journey, how she plans to support other women in the sport once she's done competing and more. Plus, what life is like for a Brit living in Atlanta and the key to what makes a good biscuit.Davey also recaps the action from Circuit of the Americas, previews Phoenix, provides an update on NASCAR's new countersuit against 23XI Racing and Front Row Motorsports, analyses why Austin Cindric was not suspended for right-rear hooking Ty Dillon, breaks down Joe Gibbs Racing winning their L2 appeal against NASCAR post-Daytona and Papa Segal pays homage to Michelle Mouton.
Five-time Spec Miata champion Preston Pardus joins Davey Segal this week (5:30) ahead of his first attempted Xfinity Series race of 2025. He dives into the revenge he's seeking after failing to quality for COTA last year, why he and Pardus Racing chose the select races they did for this year, how his NASCAR experience has been thus far and how his father Dan's experience at the top level of stock car levels has guided his time thus far.Pardus also details his iconic 2017 SCCA runoffs victory that started it all in Spec Miatas, his super sweep in 2020 and how they've done it all while building cars in their backyard in New Smyrna, Florida. Pardus explains why the No. 50 he's running now in Xfinity is special to the family, racing against his sister (and dad) and why he's so appreciative of his loyal fanbase.Davey also recaps Christopher Bell's win at Atlanta, looks ahead to COTA and Papa Segal pays homage to Bobby Labonte.
Fresh off his second straight Daytona 500 win, William Byron’s spotter Branden Lines joins Davey Segal (6:25) to break down how the 2025 Great American Race was won, why the celebration of this one was vastly different than winning on a Monday in 2024, how he passed time during the rain delay and the art of Gen 7 spotting and how he’s evolved his craft since working with Byron in Cup.Lines also touches on the “Triangle of Trust” Byron, crew chief Rudy Fugle and the No. 24 team have established over the last 4 years, how far he and Byron go back, getting started in motorsports growing up outside of Indianapolis, living with Daniel and Kenzie Hemric and Chris Gabehart while trying to make it in racing, the satisfaction of winning a Truck Series championship with Ty Majeski last season and more, including how Atlanta differs from Daytona and what the No. 24 team is capable of in 2025.Davey also recaps the chaotic and surprising finish, looks ahead to Atlanta and Papa Segal pays homage to The King of the Beach.
On the heels of The Clash at Bowman Gray Stadium and ahead of the Daytona 500, NASCAR Regional Managing Director Joey Dennewitz joins Davey Segal (6:50) to discuss his role, how the Cup Series' return to Bowman Gray went and his career before joining the sanctioning body as a driver growing up in Ohio and then transitioning into the business side of the sport.He dives into how his relationship with Spire's Jeff Dickerson and T.J. Puchyr grew, his connection with Landon Cassill, learning how to do everything and anything in motorsports and how that's made him better in his current role, plus how beloved his dog Otis really is.Davey also looks ahead to the season-opening Daytona 500, discusses the 2025 NASCAR Hall of Fame class and Papa Segal pays homage to Dr. Dean Sicking, a motorsports safety pioneer.
NASCAR's Project Lead for the Cook-Out Clash at Bowman Gray Stadium Justin Swilling joins Davey Segal (5:05) to discuss what it's taken to make this upcoming weekend a reality. From painting and installing new walls to a revamped lighting system to numbers on seats, Swilling has overseen the modernization of BGS in advance of NASCAR's kickoff weekend in Winston Salem, North Carolina.He also discusses his personal connection to the venue, why having a parking plan is of the utmost importance, his background in motorsports and what he does on a daily/weekly basis at NASCAR.
Crew Chief Drew Blickensderfer joins Davey Segal (5:10) ahead of the 2025 season to discuss why now was the right time for him to return for his second stint at Front Row Motorsports, his faith in Noah Gragson, what FRM's alliance with Team Penske really means and what's changed at the team since his departure.Blickensderfer also reminisces on his two Daytona 500 victories, starting off his career winning his first two races as a shot caller with Matt Kenseth, why Carl Edwards stands out among the 18+ drivers he's worked with in his career, his background as a walk-on Division I wrestler at Indiana, why he enjoys being the "head coach" of sorts and more, including his real name and legitimate goals for the 2025 season.Papa Segal pays homage to Alvin Hawkins, NASCAR's first flagman, as the season approaches.
Incoming NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series Sunoco Rookie of the Year contender Gio Ruggiero joins Davey Segal this week (6:55) to discuss his impending foray into NASCAR's national series with TRICON Garage. He clears the air on his name and not being related to modified legend Reggie Ruggiero, discusses how he thinks the jump from ARCA to Trucks will be, his Winchester 400 win, growing up at Seekonk Speedway, the culture at TRICON and more, including how and why he went behind his moms back to start his racing career.
One of the most respected voices in the garage and co-author of "NASCAR Mavericks" Holly Cain joins Davey Segal (6:40) to discuss her new project, some learnings from it and what some future mavericks in the sport may look like.Cain also dives into her storied 30+ year career as a sports journalist that has taken her from Florida, to Texas, to Washington and racetracks all over the world. She relives a memorable phone call from George Steinbrenner (yes, that one), reveals the one track she's yet to visit that's on her bucket list, how the sport has changed over the years, relationship building, Dale Earnhardt stories and more, including her love and admiration for the NASCAR community for supporting her during her latest battle with cancer.Papa Segal also pays homage to "Cha Cha" in the wayback segment to kick off the new year.
After 45 years with the company, 42 of which in motorsports and 26 in NASCAR, Goodyear's Greg Stucker is calling it a career. Goodyear Tire & Rubber's Director of Racing joins Davey Segal ahead of his retirement (5:55) to discuss how he got involved in motorsports with Goodyear after graduating from Vanderbilt, learning racing on the fly with little prior knowledge and getting thrown into the fire from short tracks to IndyCar.Stucker also dives into some major takeaways from 2024, including the use of wet weather tires and potential future use of them on intermediates, option tires and how soft of a compound they can actually make, what happened at spring Bristol (if they even know, still) and the differences in concrete vs. asphalt as it pertains to tire wear and temperature.He also reminisces about the good and bad days on the job, including the 2008 Brickyard 400 and why that wound up changing things for the better with their processes, tire wars in the 1990s, the famous Goodyear Blimp, gold car and the meaningful styory behind his patented aviators at the track.
For the second year in a row, Allison Thorson and ThorSport Racing are CRAFTSMAN Truck Series champions. She joins Davey Segal this week (5:35) to dissect Ty Majeski's 2024 NCTS title, the dominant performance he put in at Phoenix Raceway, how this title feels different than the others and what it means to win back-to-back championships for the second time in ThorSport history.She also provides some analysis on the organizations driver lineup in 2024, what Conner Jones can learn moving forward from his Homestead-Miami incident, the history of ThorSport, why they've never entertained the thought of moving from Sandusky, Ohio, why her parents don't do a ton of media, what's next for the team, her passion for horses and reigning and more.Davey also runs through some of the news that came across the wire this week and Papa Segal returns wit a wayback segment.
Davey's better half joins him to recap Championship Weekend from Phoenix Raceway that saw Joey Logano, Justin Allgaier and Ty Majeski triumph in the Cup, Xfinity and CRAFTSMAN Truck Series, respectively. They discuss the playoff format, those calling out Logano for not being a worthy champion based on the format, the possibility of the title race rotating venues, the current antitrust lawsuit between 23XI Racing, Front Row Motorsports and NASCAR, the Martinsville manipulation, look ahead to 2025 and more.
Industry veteran and OG pit spotter Walter Cox joins Davey Segal this week (2:20) to explain what the role of a pit spotter entails and how he and the role began over three decades ago. Cox explains how many feeds he listens to at once during races, what he provides on-air talent with, how he goes about information gathering ahead of races and how the job has evolved over the years.Cox also dives into his famous trades in the garage area, where he gives canned fruits and vegetables for racing memorabilia, and explains how Kasey Kahne helped make them more known. He also shares anecdotes from his interesting life in and out of racing, including his time as a "Waffle Belly," a radio host and being in a music video.Davey also recaps the Martinsville manipulation and penalties divvied out in the wake of the penultimate race of the season, Ryan Blaney's impressive win and previews the Championship 4 weekend at Phoenix Raceway.
Short track legend Bubba Pollard joins Davey Segal (2:45) ahead of his second career NASCAR Xfinity Series start this weekend at Martinsville Speedway. Pollard explains how the deal with Sam Hunt Racing came together, why Martinsville Speedway should be a good venue to showcase his skillset and reminisces on his first start in the series earlier this season for JR Motorsports at Richmond.Pollard also dives into his background as a third generation racer from Georgia, his involvement in running Senoia Raceway back home, how the nickname "Bubba" came to be and why he always has run the No. 26 on track.Plus, he explains why winning the Oxford 250 was the biggest win of his illustrious career spanning over 100 wins and 15 championships, the current state of short track racing and why he's a bit conflicted from multiple perspectives, his expectations for this weekend at The Paperclip and more.Davey also recaps Tyler Reddick's daring move to win at Homestead-Miami Speedway and lock himself into his first ever Championship 4 and looks ahead to the penultimate race weekend of the season at Martinsville.
Rackley W.A.R. President and COO Willie Allen joins Davey Segal this week (2:25) to discuss the news of the team joining forces with Kevin Harvick Incorporated for the 2025 season and beyond. Allen explains why Dawson Sutton is the right driver to pilot their full-time Truck Series entry next season and his unique background, how conversations began with Harvick and KHI, what Kevin brings to a team like theirs and how the alliance on the late model side will impact their national series efforts.Allen also dives into his career as a driver, spanning numerous NCTS and Xfinity Series starts, including for Pro Football Hall of Famer Randy Moss, reflects on Matt DiBenedetto's Talladega triumph for the team, what led to him getting involved in team ownership on the national series side, his future aspirations as an owner and more.Davey also discusses Joey Logano's win at Las Vegas to punch his ticket to the Championship 4, previews Homestead-Miami Speedway and more.
Joe Gibbs Racing's newly named full-time Xfinity Series driver for 2025 Taylor Gray joins Davey Segal (3:10) this week to discuss how the deal came together and the cool story behind why the entry will be the No. 54 instead of the No. 19 involving his best friend Ty Gibbs.Gray also details the differences between the Xfinity car and Truck vehicles, working with crew chief Tyler Allen next year and how that relationship has been so far in 2024, how important the driver/crew chief pairing is, pressure associated with running for the winningest team in series history, how he'd characterize his season to date, racing with his brother Tanner and more.Davey also recaps the Charlotte Motor Speedway ROVAL won by Kyle Larson and the headline news of Alex Bowman failing post-race inspection, being disqualified and Joey Logano being added back in to the Round of 8. Plus, a preview of Las Vegas Motor Speedway.
Crew Chief Charles Denike joins Davey Segal this week (5:45) to discuss the No. 19 McAnally-Hilgemann Racing team's playoffs to date in the Truck Series, having only one finish outside the top 10 to this point, goals and expectations for the remainder of the postseason and the stop/start nature of the NCTS playoffs.Denike also dives into his background in racing in Virginia before enlisting in the armed forces for almost a decade. He details what he did in the U.S. Army and why he opted to return to motorsports upon finishing his time serving.He also touches on some parallels in racing and the Army, goes through his rise from K&N to GMS to MHR, explains what kind of a boss Bill McAnally is and more, including what his 2025 plans may include.Davey also recaps Ricky Stenhouse Jr.'s win at Talladega Superspeedway, looks ahead to the Round of 12 cutoff race at the Charlotte Motor Speedway ROVAL and Papa Segal pays homage to Les Richter.
He’s back! Ryan Reed joins Davey Segal this week (6:10) ahead of his return to the Craftsman Truck Series at Talladega Superspeedway with McAnally-Hilgemann Racing. He explains what he's expecting out of the one-off opportunity, how he's preparing, knowing he'll have a winning-caliber Truck underneath him and why Talladega owes him one.He also gets us up to speed on what he's been up to the last several years since full-time driving dried up and how he's stayed involved in the sport, the emotions associated with not being a full-time racecar driver anymore and how he wrestled and subsequently settled with that, working a 9-5 day job and racing on the side and more.Plus, growing up in California in a racing family, moving East at 18-years-old to pursue a career, overcoming the odds as a type 1 diabetic, memories of his triumphant 2015 win at Daytona in the Xfinity Series, the long road to get to that point with Roush Fenway Racing and more.Davey also discusses Ross Chastain's Kansas win, previews Talladega, the new antitrust lawsuit filed by 23XI Racing and Front Row Motorsports against NASCAR and Papa Segal pays homage to a broadcasting legend.
Industry veteran Wendy Venturini joins Davey Segal this week (7:40) to discuss her vast career in and out of motorsports spanning almost a quarter of a century. She explains the misconception with her last name and ARCA Menards Series powerhouse Venturini Motorsports, growing up in a racing family, pursuing motorsports as a career avenue and starting at the bottom in production before working her way up to on air broadcasting.Venturini also shares the story of how the opportunity at SPEED came about while working at NASCAR Productions, the experience of working on NASCAR RaceDay with Rutledge Wood, Kenny Wallace, Jimmy Spencer, John Roberts and more, the differences and nuances between television and radio and what makes each discipline unique.She also reflects on her near fatal accident in 2018 at Sonoma, where she suffered a basilar skull fracture after being struck by a car, the road to recovery that followed (figuratively and literally) and those that helped her along the way to return to broadcasting some 2 months later (!) at Bristol Motor Speedway, of all places.She also dives into her entrepreneurial success as an owner of Burn Boot Camp franchises, how it may have helped save her life, what she'd still like to accomplish in her career and more.Davey also discusses Kyle Larson's dominant Bristol win and the ensuing industry reaction to the performance, previews Kansas to kick off the Cup Series Round of 12 and Papa Segal pays homage to "Big Daddy" Don Garlits.
Fresh off his first win as a NASCAR national series crew chief, Andrew Overstreet joins Davey Segal (7:30) to debrief and discuss the JR Motorsports No. 88 teams dominant win at Watkins Glen and Connor Zilisch's masterclass of a debut. He explains how he was in awe of Zilisch going quicker when asked to back off, his poise to withstand a chaotic finish and what his potential is moving forward.He also discusses Carson Kvapil's limited starts in the No. 88 this year, his time at JR Motorsports over the last several years and how it compares to his various stops along the way, working at Hendrick Motorsports while in college under Chad Knaus with Greg Ives, how simulation implementation was in the early/mid 2000s, climbing the ladder to a race engineer and more.Plus, his friendship with Ryan Blaney that was forged at Penske and the Wood Brothers, his Petty fandom as a child that helped accelerate his professional career, how a middle school science teacher helped give him the push to pursue motorsports as a career, stories from his win with Nelson Piquet Jr. at Michigan in the Truck Series, working alongside his brother, Tyler, in the sport, what his 2025 plans may look like and trying to go back-to-back with Dale Earnhardt Jr. back in the seat this weekend at Bristol.Davey also discusses Chris Buescher's win at Watkins Glen, the playoff leaderboard heading into Bristol to end the Round of 16 and Papa Segal pays homage to an iconic site of many land speed records.
Josh Berry joins Davey Segal this week (5:00) ahead of his final 9 races with Stewart-Haas Racing before joining Wood Brothers Racing in 2025. The two discuss the Rookie of the Year chase, his recent wild ride at Daytona, the wind array of sponsors and paint schemes in 2024 and when he got the news about SHR closing.Berry explains why he and the team felt a bit free once the news was officially out in the open, how the deal with WBR came about for next year, balancing the task at hand while also looking ahead, racing for KHI, a Taylor Swift question (duh) and preview of Watkins Glen International this weekend.Davey also discusses Joey Logano's Atlanta win, previews The Glen and Papa Segal pays homage to an eye in the sky mentioned on last week's show.
Ahead of his home race, Garrett Smithley (6:05) joins Davey Segal to discuss his new sponsor and what it's like racing at home with friends and family in attendance. It'll be his third race of 2024 with Alpha Prime Racing, but Smithley explains why it's felt like way more and his longstanding relationship with team owner Tommy Joe Martins.He also dives into the troubles Johnny Davis and JD Motorsports have been dealing with in 2024 and his own up and down journey as a race car driver, starting in high school in bandoleros and eventually landing him in the Cup Series. He explains how the Richard Petty driver search and a candid conversation Ken Schrader had with his parents that helped embark him on his racing journey and more.Davey also discusses Chase Briscoe's upset win in the Southern 500 to vault him into the postseason, previews the final 10 races and 16-driver playoff field and Papa Segal pays homage to a name synonymous with The Lady in Black.
West Virginia's finest, Jason Toy, joins Davey Segal this week (7:15) to discuss his 26+ years working for the Motor Racing Network in conjunction with his "day job" at Big Buck Country in West Virginia. He reminisces on his early days at MRN, learning from legends and how growing up in Florida led him to Marshall University, where he's been ever since. Davey also discusses Harrison Burton's upset win at Daytona and explains why he's a worthy playoff contender, previews Darlington and Papa Segal pays homage to a Truck Series legend.
Matt Swiderski, the man affectionately known as "Squid" joins Davey Segal (7:40) to discuss his intriguing career that has spanned motorsports and aerospace. He explains why and how Daniel Suárez and the No. 99 team have turned a corner and flipped a switch ahead of the playoffs, why they were experimenting throughout the spring and summer and reflects on the option tire used at Richmond.Squid dives into his background in racing growing up in the midwest, working on street stocks and super late models in and around Chicago and how he wound up being a first-generation racer before getting hired at Richard Childress Racing after college as a data acquisition engineer. He explains what the role entailed, winning a then Busch Series title in 2007 with Clint Bowyer, working with Kevin Harvick, Casey Mears and others before making a career change.Swiderski explains why he opted to leave motorsports for a job at SpaceX, how his skillset transitioned to aerospace and his one-on-one interview with, you guessed it, Elon Musk. But his time there was short-lived, and he explains why racing was calling him back home to Welcome, North Carolina and RCR just 8 months later.He discusses his eventual rise to the crew chief role, why he was never dead set on pursuing that full-time, but once he got a taste he wanted more of it, stops along the way at Team Penske and Kaulig Racing, the recruitment process to Trackhouse, an ironic story of when he interviewed for the No. 99 crew chief position the first time, the culture at the team being similar to SpaceX, what he's learned in his 100+ Cup races as a shot caller, his realistic expectations ahead of his first playoffs and more.Davey also touches on Tyler Reddick's Michigan win, previews Daytona and Papa Segal pays homage to a NASCAR pioneer.
Chris Wilner joins Davey Segal (5:40) to discuss NASCAR's penalties handed down after Richmond Raceway and whether the sanctioning body got it right or not. They also discuss Wilner's diverse background in motorsports and how his preparation and execution differs from television to radio, sports cars to NASCAR, etc. He also reminisces on his first time working for the Motor Racing Network, growing up in Indianapolis with Dillon Welch, discusses his desire to cover an Indianapolis 500 and more.Davey dives further into the penalties announced to Austin Dillon and Joey Logano from Richmond, previews Michigan and Papa Segal pays homage to Fred Lorenzen.
Richmond Raceway track president Lori Collier Waran joins Davey Segal (7:20) ahead of NASCAR's return to racing after the Olympic break in the commonwealth. She dives into how hospitality remains a constant in her career, even in NASCAR, and her time growing up in Richmond attending races before it all came full circle in 2022.She also explains why she didn't think she was fit for the job when NASCAR recruited her for the vacant position, how she had to figure out what the role of a track president really was, the pride she takes in being the first female track president in 76 years at Richmond, remembering the hectic first race weekend less than a month into the job and more, including how a night race weekend differs from a day one, what the future of Richmond Raceway may look like and the potential to seal the track again.Davey also previews the upcoming weekend with the Goodyear option tire after the Olympic break and Papa Segal pays homage to Alan Kulwicki.
Davey's better half Robin is back for her third appearance on the show for an Olympic break check-in. They discuss the season to date, general takeaways from it, Kyle Larson's double attempt, Martin Truex Jr.'s impending retirement, Trackhouse's decline, weather impacting races, Nashville's 5OT finish, her current Championship 4 and more from a casual fan's perspective. Papa Segal also pays homage to another modified legend.
'Lil Gator is in the house! Justin Allgaier kicks off the Olympic break by joining Davey Segal (7:00) for an extended conversation about the various chapters in his illustrious motorsports career. They discuss what life is currently like as a softball dad, getting started racing quarter midgets at 5-years-old, the Allgaier family racing legacy and how it all came fill circle when he won the ARCA championship on a memorable day in 2008.Allgaier also discusses his move to Penske and the now Xfinity Series in the late 2000s, gets candid about his his time in the Cup Series with HScott Motorsports and why things didn't work out, whether or not he's open to a Cup Series return, how a well-timed sequence of events led to a conversation with Dale Earnhardt Jr. and eventually his ride at JR Motorsports in the Xfinity Series and how much pride he takes in being the longest tenured and winningest driver in JRM history.He also dives into his mindset having never won a Xfinity Series championship despite coming so close so many times, why he's slowly migrated off social media, tries to pick the favorite paint scheme he's run in his career and explains how his nickname of 'Lil Gator came to be.Davey also recaps the 30th anniversary of the Brickyard 400 won by Kyle Larson, dissects NASCAR's calls at the end of the event and Papa Segal pays homage to anther NASCAR Hall of Famer and (thankfully) shares a final Tour de France update.
Broadcasting legend Doug Rice joins Davey Segal this week (9:10) ahead of the return of NASCAR to the Indianapolis Motor Speedway oval for the Brickyard 400. Amid his final season or "Doug's Last Lap," Rice explains why now is the right time to step away, discusses the gestures tracks have done for him in his final stops to them so far this season, leaving the Performance Racing Network in good and capable hands having been there since day one and more.Rice dives into his broadcast beginnings at Appalachian State University, reminiscing on listening to Atlanta Braves games on the radio growing up, how he got started in motorsports and with PRN at Charlotte Motor Speedway, shares some Bruton Smith and Humpy Wheeler stories, a hilarious tale of driving Richard Petty home from the airport and his relationship with Kyle Petty.Plus, what he's most proud of as a 36-year career comes to a close, the most memorable races he's called and what the next chapter of his life, A.K.A. retirement, looks like and more.Davey also recaps Ryan Blaney's Pocono win, previews NASCAR's return to the IMS oval this weekend and Papa Segal pays homage to another legendary crew chief.
Did we just predict the future? Well, maybe. Davey Segal welcomes on Chicago Street Course winner Alex Bowman (7:30) to the show, despite recording the interview with him PRIOR to his winning weekend in Chicago. Nevertheless, Davey jokes with Alex about winning the race to kick things off before diving into a conversation surrounding his four-legged furry friends and why that's become such a passion for him thanks to his friends at Ally.Bowman also dives into his relationship with crew chief Blake Harris over the last couple years, how he compares to former shot caller Greg Ives, what makes team owner Rick Hendrick such a good leader, racing in the Cup Series for a decade and with HMS for seven, recovering from a back and brain injury over the last couple years, his drifting intrigue and more, including why he's in a good spot in his personal life, his decision to stop sprint car racing and a preview of Pocono Raceway.Davey also dives deeper into the second annual Chicago Street Course weekend, the officiating calls made by NASCAR that were widely applauded, previews the Tricky Triangle and Papa Segal also pays homage to a Hall of Fame and champion crew chief.
He's back! 4-time NASCAR Whelen Euro Series champion Alon Day joins Davey Segal (8:35) ahead of his return to the Xfinity Series at the Chicago Street Course. He explains how the deal with Alpha Prime Racing came together, what he's been doing since arriving in the United States to prepare for this opportunity and dives into his career arc that began with go-karts and open wheel vehicles before taking a turn to the stock car route.Day, a proud Israeli, has numerous personal connections to the war going on back home. He explains why a big part of coming to the U.S. to race is to bring awareness to what's going on back home, how he and his family were affected by the October 7 terrorist attacks, representing Israel on a global motorsports stage and why he feels the U.S. has become a second home of sorts for him despite spending limited time stateside.Day also relives his Whelen Euro Series days, the switch he made to pursue stock cars over a decade ago, being a part of the 2016 NASCAR Next class, why he feels like he's done all he can (and wants to) do in Europe, his search for opportunities in the national series, how he's been preparing for the Chicago Street Course, why needing to qualify in has been the most stressful experience of his career and more, including what his realistic expectations are for the race.Davey also discusses Joey Logano's fuel mileage win at Nashville Superspeedway, five overtimes, previews Chicago and Papa Segal pays homage to a newly inducted NASCAR Hall of Famer.
Joe Gibbs Racing Xfinity Series engineer Monon Rahman (7:00) joins Davey Segal to discuss his unique and rapid rise atop the pit box in NASCAR. He explains how the movie "Cars" was a catalyst to launch his passion for motorsports, how his Bangladeshi parents chasing their dreams helped him chase his own and why working on multiple racing programs at the University of Kentucky helped prepare him for the next chapters of his racing career.Rahman also explains how a Facebook post with a UK professor and 2-time Truck Series champion Ben Rhodes wound up connecting him Venturini Motorsports, also dives into his internship at the NASCAR R&D center, time working with Rick Ware Racing, eventually going back to Venturini and winning his first race at the ARCA level as a crew chief.He also details what led to his move to Joe Gibbs Racing, how and why Billy Venturini helped him move on and climb the ladder, the adjustment period of moving from ARCA to Xfinity, working under Tyler Allen and the No. 20 Xfinity Series team and how having multiple different drivers behind the wheel impacts his job as an engineer. Plus, he reveals his ambitious goal for 2030 and what the No. 20 team has its sights set on for the remainder of 2024.Davey also discusses Christopher Bell's weekend sweep at New Hampshire Motor Speedway (his personal playground), previews Nashville Superspeedway and Papa Segal pays homage to a NASCAR Hall of Famer.
Team Penske veteran and recent Cup Series winning Crew Chief Brian Wilson joins Davey Segal this week (6:25) to reflect on the No. 2 teams triumph at Gateway a couple weeks ago and why the win was a validation of the process he and Austin Cindric have been trusting together. He also shares what Roger Penske told him after the win and the gains that Ford Performance and Penske have seemingly made in recent weeks.Wilson details his 21 illustrious years at the company, starting out as a shock specialist before working his way into an engineer role, winning 50 (and counting) times along the way, garnering multiple championships and working with countless drivers. He also touches on his start in racing growing up in Michigan, why his father's influence loomed over him and helped get him started in the sport, why his driving career was short lived and memories working for Frank Kimmel's ARCA team as a 21-year-old fresh out of college.Wilson also explains what makes he and Austin Cindric work so well together, if anybody ever confuses him with some other famous Brian Wilson's out there, previews New Hampshire Motor Speedway and why he said some may be right to write the No. 2 team off come playoff time, but they may surprise some people.Davey also recaps the Cup Series' inaugural trip to Iowa Speedway, Martin Truex Jr.'s impending retirement and Papa Segal pays homage to a legend of Le Mans.
2018 Truck Series champion and Iowa native Brett Moffitt joins Davey Segal this week (5:45) ahead of his return to the Xfinity Series and return to Joe Gibbs Racing at his home track of Iowa Speedway. Moffitt explains the excitement surrounding the opportunity to race in competitive equipment at his home track, what it'll be like having friends and family in attendance, how the partial repave will level out the playing field on a track he's won at multiple times and what it's been like getting re-acclimated to JGR after more than a decade away.Moffitt also dives into getting to know his crew chief for the weekend, Seth Chavka, his partial NCTS schedule with TRICON Garage and why his lack of rhythm has been hindering him during races thus far. He also reminisces on his 2018 championship with Hattori Racing Enterprises and Scott Zipadelli (and Davey shares a funny (and intimate?) story from that night), his time in the Cup Series and why it was a struggle, whether or not he'd like to get back there one day, working as a simulation driver for Hendrick Motorsports, how his time with AM Racing came to an end at the end of 2023 and more, including what it's like now being a father of two, his realistic expectations for Iowa this weekend and some must-dos for those visiting Newton for the first time.Papa Segal also pays homage to the late Parnelli Jones while Davey recaps Kyle Larson's Sonoma victory and looks ahead to the Cup Series' first trip to the land of corn.
Veteran crew chief Kevin "Bono" Manion sits down with Davey Segal (8:15) to discuss his illustrious career in NASCAR that has seen him work with close to 50 drivers, win multiple championships, crowned jewel races and currently with Rev Racing and Nick Sanchez in the Truck Series, where they already have two wins to their credit in 2024.Bono explains what makes Sanchez so good in qualifying, why the consistency the No. 2 team has showed, the stop/start nature of the Truck Series schedule and reflects on being in the sport for over two decades. He also dives into his upbringing in Massachusetts, who he started racing with, moving down south on a whim with Tommy Baldwin and the friends and racers that lived with the duo down in NC.Bono wound up winning in his first ever start as a crew chief, at Daytona of all places, with Dale Earnhardt Jr. as the driver. He reflects on that day and getting paired up with Martin Truex Jr. at Chance 2 Motorsports (which he was hand picked to help start), where they won back-to-back championships to begin his full-time crew chiefing career. Bono and MTJ then moved up to the Cup Series together before Jamie McMurray came into the picture. Remember that storybook 2010 season? Bono does too, but it wasn't all good, as he explains.He also touches on what made working at DEI so special, what working at so many different teams taught him as a crew chief, why he enjoys where he's at in the Truck Series with Spire/Rev, being the class clown of the team and pulling pranks on his people, expectations for the No. 2 team for the rest of 2024, what else he wants to accomplish in his NASCAR career and where the nickname "Bono" actually derived from.Papa Segal pays homage to Ernie Irvan and Davey discusses Austin Cindric's surprise Gateway win, NASCAR granting Kyle Larson a playoff waiver and looks ahead to Sonoma.
McAnally-Hilgemann Racing's Tyler Ankrum joins Davey Segal (6:35) to discuss his best start to the season in his NASCAR career, how and why his habits to prepare for races have changed and if he can pinpoint why his performance has taken an uptick in 2024.One reason why may be his new team. Ankrum dives into how he's gelling with MHR, what Bill McAnally is like as a team owner and leader, why Mike Hillman is the right crew chief for him, how low his confidence got over the last few years and how good it feels to be running back up front with regularity again. He also explains what the teammate dynamic is like at MHR, looks ahead to Worldwide Technology Raceway at Gateway this weekend and shares what the No. 18 needs to improve upon with 5 races to go before the playoffs.Plus, what a typical weekday looks like for him as a farmer, the money-making business it truly is, how many cowboy boots he has, what brought him to Davey's backyard in Washington, D.C. recently and more.Davey also discusses Kyle Larson's foiled double attempt thanks to the weather interfering, why he should and will get a waiver from NASCAR and shares his take on Stewart-Haas Racing ceasing operations at the end of the 2024 season. Papa Segal also takes us wayback and Davey looks ahead to Gateway.
Ahead of tackling the motorsports double, spotter Tyler Monn joins Davey Segal (7:00) to dive into the preparation, logistics, learning and excitement the month of May has had in store thus far. Monn explains how the idea to spot the double came about, why he feels thankful that Kyle Larson put his trust in him, how he's gone about familiarizing himself with IndyCar terminology and the series in general and why it isn't as hard as it seems to spot a car going 40-50 mph faster than he's used to.Monn also reflects on being a part of the closest finish in NASCAR history at Kansas, his recruitment to become a part of the No. 5 team at Hendrick Motorsports, growing up a Terry Labonte fan and Darlington being a full circle moment, going from the back of the field to champion in 365 days, his friendship with crew chief Cliff Daniels and why he got into spotting in the first place.He also explains how and why a motocross accident ultimately stopped his racing career behind the wheel (or in his case, handlebars), his experience at Pit Crew U, what a successful Sunday looks like at both Indianapolis and Charlotte and more.Davey also dives into the Ricky Stenhouse Jr. and Kyle Busch scuffle at North Wilkesboro Speedway and shares his unique perspective having found himself become a part of it (A.K.A. a landing spot for KFB), touches on the $75K fine handed down to Stenhouse Jr. and previews NASCAR's longest race. Papa Segal also pays homage to another racer who has completed the double as Motorsports Christmas looms.
Just a couple of Waffle House enthusiasts chopping it up this week on the pod. CARS Tour standout Brenden "Butterbean" Queen joins Davey Segal this week (6:15) ahead of his NASCAR National Series debut with TRICON Garage in the CRAFTSMAN Truck Series at North Wilkesboro Speedway. He explains how he deal came together on the heels of some strong 2023 results, his reaction when Toyota called him to let him know, preparations for this weekend's race, his realistic expectations and if he feels pressure to perform and make the most of this opportunity.Butterbean also explains the story behind his nickname and why it wound up sticking and his recognizable No. 03 video game font, why building his brand has been very intentional, how he learned about race craft, working on his own stuff, the influence from team owner and mentor Lee Pulliam, winning 3 track titles at Langley Speedway and the current high level of competition on the CARS Tour.Plus, the reason for his mullet, finishing his degree at Old Dominion University his Waffle House order and much more.Davey also discusses Brad Keselowski's Darlington won and why his career arc has potentially endeared him to some fans, why Chris Buescher had every right to be upset with Tyler Reddick and previews the All-Star Race at North Wilkesboro Speedway. Papa Segal also pays homage to Chargin' Charlie as the Month of May rolls on.
Missed it by that much. RFK Racing crew chief Scott Graves joins Davey Segal (6:40) on the heels of Chris Buescher and the No. 17 team coming up 0.001 seconds shy of winning at Kansas, the closest finish in NASCAR Cup Series history. Graves explains the roller coaster of emotions he experienced from thinking they had the win to realizing they didn't, what answers he got from NASCAR when he went to talk to them before leaving the track, the conversation he had with Chris post-race and the photo finish technology the sanctioning body implements.Graves also dives into the speed RFK has shown as of late with four runner-up finishes and how close they and Ford really are to breaking through and running better every week. He also dives into getting his start as a crew chief in NASCAR, working with a then young Chris Buescher, winning the 2015 Xfinity championship together, leaving Roush for Joe Gibbs Racing before ultimately returning and being a part of Ryan Newman's harrowing 2020 crash at Daytona.Plus, why the No. 17 should be one to watch this weekend at Darlington, Graves' passion for fitness, background in racing and why he didn't immediately get into it upon graduating from Texas Tech and why he knows the "what's up brother?!" meme.Davey also discusses the finish that still has everyone buzzing at Kansas, previews throwback weekend at Darlington and Papa Segal pays homage to Bobby Johns as we continue in the month of May.
Fresh off another Monster Mile win, Ryan Truex joins Davey Segal (7:00) to chat about how and why this win was so much different than his first career dub last season at his home track, staying in the game and chipping away at things, what was giving him fits throughout the day and how he sent it on into Turns 1 and 2 hoping it would stick on the final restart.He also explains the difficulties in being a part-time driver and finding a rhythm inside the car, frustrations with not finding adequate sponsorship to run full-time with Joe Gibbs Racing yet, giving his brother, Martin Truex Jr., some crap for not holding up his end of the bargain this year, what he specifically does for JGR when he's not driving the Xfinity Series car and why he may need to do a little house remodeling to fit another Miles the Monster trophy.Papa Segal pays off the O.J. Simpson saga, pays homage to a Kansas native as we enter the month of May and Davey discusses Denny Hamlin's Dover win, why the No. 11 team are far and away the ones to beat right now and looks ahead to Kansas Speedway.
The man, the myth, the legend: Kyle Petty joins Davey Segal this week (6:30) ahead of the 28th annual Kyle Petty Charity Ride Across America. KP dives into the facts and figures associated with this years ride, beginning in South Dakota and ending in North Carolina.He also discusses the origins of the ride, how it's evolved to the event it is today, the vetting process of getting riders ready to go, some fun anniversaries that coincide with this years ride and some memories from the open road over the last near three decades.KP also weighs in on the current happenings of NASCAR, including why he saw the "it" factor in William Byron so early, his various other media escapades, including being a musician, and more.Papa Segal also continues to pay homage to "The Juice" and his complicated story while Davey checks in from overseas (sort of).
Veteran crew chief Luke Lambert joins Davey Segal (6:40) on the heels of his first top 10 finish of the 2024 season with rookie Carson Hocevar and Spire Motorsports. He explains why he's been pleased with the start to the season thus far, what it's been like to come into the organization amid the rapid growth and what it's like working with Stephen Doran and Ryan Sparks as Cup crew chief counterparts.Lambert also dives into his background, starting as an engineer back in 2005 with Richard Childress Racing, how the sport and his job(s) have evolved in the nearly two decades since, getting thrusted into the crew chief role midway though the 2011 season, his memorable Championship 4 run with Ryan Newman and RCR in 2014, why he opted to leave the organization for Roush Fenway and how COVID impacted his career trajectory more than you'd expect.Plus, how his passion for engineering blossomed at NC State, working with countless drivers along the way and what's next for him in the sport.Plus, Papa Segal turns the wayback machine on a complicated historical figure and Davey talks Chase Elliott's big win at Texas and looks ahead to the 2.66-mile behemoth of Talladega Superspeedway.
JR Motorsports driver Carson Kvapil joins Davey Segal (8:20) on the heels of his impressive 4th-place finish in his Xfinity Series debut. The two discuss what the lead up to the race was like, leaning on Bubba Pollard, Josh Berry and Dale Earnhardt Jr. among others, how tire conservation came into play, why his CARS Tour background helped and his relationship with crew chief Andrew Overstreet.He also dives into his CARS Tour success, defending his Late Model Stock title this year, missing Hickory this past weekend and what it's going to take to make up the lost ground, how competitive the series is and how Xfinity compared, why he had two different firesuits at Martinsville, what it was like winning at North Wilkesboro Speedway last year and more, including where he sees himself in 5 years and the influence his father, Travis, has had on him.Davey also discusses the current short track product in the Cup Series, what could potentially be done to fix it and looks ahead to Texas Motor Speedway. Plus, Papa Segal pays homage to one of the greatest racers of all time.
Former Busch Series winner and current spotter Tim Fedewa joins Davey Segal (7:30) to discuss how his the transition to a new driver in Ryan Blaney has been going in 2024, the process and reasoning behind the switch and why he's learned to not take fiery outbursts from drivers on the radio personally in the heat of battle.Fedewa also dives into his background in racing as a proud Michigander, being inducted into the Michigan Motorsports Hall of Fame with several other of his family members, his driving career and wins at Nazareth, who he served as a driver coach for once his driving career dried up, the transition to spotting and more.Plus, the infamous sandwich incident at Indianapolis and the real story behind it (Free Timmy!), why he's a Spartan fan and not a Wolverine supporter, which races stand out to him that he's won and that got away (as a spotter and driver) and more.Davey also recaps the first ever Cup Series points race started on wet weather tires at Richmond, Denny Hamlin's jumped final OT restart, previews Martinsville and Papa Segal pays homage to Dick Hutcherson.
17-year-old Connor Zilisch (and a surprise/unexpected guest) join Davey Segal this week (7:15) on the heels of his impressive NASCAR national series debut at Circuit of the Americas. Zilisch explains what went wrong in Turn 1 from the pole, dives into the wildly successful season he's had to date, winning the 24 Hours of Daytona, where his Rolex watch is, why the 12 Hours of Sebring was a different kind of gratifying and how he got hooked up with Justin Marks and Trackhouse Racing.Zilisch explains how and why his time spent overseas karting in Europe was beneficial to his young career, learning the fundamentals of race craft, how teammates and team members treat him given the large gap in age, balancing homeschooling and racing, adjusting to oval track racing and his upcoming Truck and Xfinity Series events. Plus, why he doesn't care if people mispronounce his last name.Davey also discusses William Byron's second win of the season and dominant performance at COTA, Papa Segal pays homage to a country music legend and more.
Truck Series veteran Grant Enfinger joins Davey Segal (6:05) to discuss his season thus far and how the adjustment (or maybe lack thereof) to CR7 Motorsports has been going. He explains how the decision to join forces with Codie Rohrbaugh was a natural one, how far back their relationship goes, the alliance CR7 has established with McAnally-Hilgemann Racing and why it may take awhile to make CR7 into a weekly race winning contender.Enfinger also dives into his career as a trucker, how the series has changed over the last decade or so, what the current state of the series is, how long it took him to get over how the 2023 season ended with GMS Racing at Phoenix, the cool backstory on how he wound up with his adorable pet pig, Wilbur, and more, including how much longer he may want to race in NASCAR.Davey also recaps the wild and wacky race we saw at Bristol, previews COTA and Papa Segal pays homage to a Busch Series legend.
Veteran crew chief and Phoenix Xfinity Series winner Jeff Meendering joins Davey Segal (5:35) to discuss his second consecutive win in the desert and third overall in the series with three different drivers. They also dive into how the transition has been thus far in 2024 working with Chandler Smith, how growing up with Berlin Raceway literally in his front yard helped get him hooked into racing and the illustrious career he's enjoyed in NASCAR.Meendering dives into his start, sweeping floors at Hendrick Motorsports, becoming a crew chief full-time with Bobby Labonte in 2008, why he was underprepared for the task, how the sport and various roles he's held over the years has evolved, his future aspirations, what it's been like working with his younger brother Kevin alongside him and more, including a preview of COTA and why he feels JGR and Toyota should be ones to watch.Davey also recaps Christopher Bell's dominant win at Phoenix, the debut of the new short track package, briefly previews Bristol and Papa Segal pays homage to one of the best crew chiefs of all-time.
The General is here! Defending Xfinity Series champion Cole Custer chats with Davey Segal (7:00) on the heels of his runner-up result at Las Vegas Motor Speedway and 2023 series championship. They discuss things staying mostly the same for this year, his relationship with crew chief Jonathan Toney, his go-to celebratory dessert from Andy's Frozen Custard and how the move has been going with a doggo in the family and little one on the way.The also discuss how his life has changed since winning the Xfinity Series championship, some cool gifts and opportunities he's gotten the chance to experience since being the champ, if he fielded any calls to return to the Cup Series and how the working relationship with his father, Joe, works at Stewart-Haas Racing,.Plus, where his iconic St0ne C0le celebration originated, his work in the MRN broadcast booth, history behind the No. 00, who he leans on for advice now that Kevin Harvick is retired, what he thinks it'll be like driving into Phoenix Raceway this weekend as the champion and more.Papa Segal also mays homage to Gentleman Ned Jarrett, Davey discusses the significance behind Washington D.C.'s own Rajah Caruth scoring his first career CRAFTSMAN Truck Series win over the weekend and more.
Longtime crew chief Brian Pattie joins Davey Segal this week (6:40) on the heels of their win at Atlanta with Kyle Busch to discuss his 30th year of working in NASCAR. Pattie reminisces on the good, bad and ugly of a lifetime atop the pit box and at the race shop, from his first job of fabricating at NEMCO, to his first Cup win in 2010 at Sonoma with Juan Pablo Montoya, runner-up points finish with Clint Bowyer in 2012 and more.Pattie also discusses his long relationship with Kyle Busch, including a funny story about the first time Rowdy tested a car at Charlotte, where his love for road course racing came from, time working with Ron Fellows as an OG road course ringer, how the Reutimann family helped spark his passion for motorsports and more, including expectations for the No. 7 Spire Motorsports Truck Series Chevrolet in 2024 and who we can expect to see wheeling the truck.Papa Segal pays homage to Rusty Wallace and Davey dives into the all-time finish over the weekend that saw Daniel Suarez edge Ryan Blaney and Kyle Busch by 0.003 seconds in the third-closest finish in NASCAR history at Atlanta.
Hendrick Motorsports crew chief Blake Harris joins Davey Segal (7:15) to discuss getting off to a hot start in 2024, replicating their early 2023 success and what that'll take to make happen. He also dives into the relationship with Alex Bowman, getting hired at Hendrick Motorsports and time spent in Colorado with Furniture Row Racing.Plus, how he met his wife Kaitlyn Vincie of NASCAR on FOX, stories from his driving days in Texas, the infamous yellow go-kart, who the best bowler on the No. 48 team, ginger or yum-yum sauce (you'll get it, I promise) and morePapa Segal also pays homage to the late Cale Yarborough as the 66th running of the Daytona 500 is in the rearview mirror.
Happy Daytona race week! 2021 winner of the Great American Race Michael McDowell joins Davey Segal (7:00) to discuss his mindset heading into the 2024 season, coming off a career-best year that saw him make the playoffs, his relationship with crew chief Travis Peterson and things staying the same on the No. 34 team.McDowell also chats about the process to get to the closing laps on Sunday, starting weeks (and months) before cars hit the track in Daytona, how the Next Gen car has helped teams like Front Row Motorsports, what his expectations are for the upcoming year and why he feels like he has a lot ahead of him despite being a series veteran who's experienced the highest highs and lowest lows.Papa Segal also pays homage to Perfect Peter Grigg and Davey previews the opening points-paying weekend of the 2024 season.
LEGACY MOTOR CLUB Crew Chief Ben Beshore joins Davey Segal (7:50) to discuss the teams transition from Chevrolet to Toyota and his acclimation process back to the Cup Series after spending some time in the Xfinity Series. He also dives into what makes he and driver John Hunter Nemechek click, who called who to get him with LMC and more.Beshore also outlines how he feels about the short track package for 2023, why having a year under his belt with the Next Gen car may pay major dividends this season, his humble upbringing in Pennsylvania, what brought him to Virginia Tech, working with his brother RJ on the same pit crew and how often people STILL mispronounce his name.Papa Segal also pays homage to some recent Hall of Fame inductees by reminiscing on "Tiregate" as we inch closer and closer to the start of the 2024 racing season.
Newly named Spire Motorsports driver Chase Purdy joins Davey Segal (6:00) to ring in 2024 and another year of the pod. They discuss their mutual hatred for Michigan (but congrats, I guess), why his new opportunity with Spire Motorsports isn't really all that new, working with crew chief Jason Trinchere, how Spire is beefing up their program ahead of their first full-time Truck Series campaign and working with teammates Carson Hocevar, Zane Smith and Corey LaJoie.Purdy also discusses his career year in 2023 and why he's aiming for bigger and better in 2024, getting more comfortable in the seat after his two-year hiatus, how he deals with being labeled as a "pay driver" and more, including his background to get to this point and realistic expectations for this season.Papa Segal also pays homage to Hurley Haywood ahead of the Rolex 24 Hours of Daytona.
Kaden Honeycutt joins Davey Segal (6:50) on the heels of another runner-up finish in the Thanksgiving Classic. He explains why the finish stung for multiple reasons, the battle late with Josh Berry and Brenden "Butterbean" Queen and whether or not he'll increase his aggressiveness moving forward.He also details his upbringing and start in motorsports in Texas, the moment he realized he was capable of doing and achieving big things, making racing more than just a hobby, the influence of his father Kirby on his career, winning the ARCA West owners championship for MMI Racing, working at Niece Motorsports while racing against them in the CRAFTSMAN Truck Series, when his 2024 plans could be announced, previewing the Snowball Derby this weekend and more.Plus, Papa Segal pays homage to a famed member of the Alabama Gang.
The champ is here! Tire changer on the No. 12 Cup Series championship winning team Ryan "Skip" Flores joins Davey Segal (6:15) to discuss the title winning afternoon the squad had on pit road, including the money stop, the pressure associated with performing in the Championship 4 and what it now feels like to officially be a champion.Skip also compares what it's like to win a Daytona 500 as a tire changer compared to a championship, how journey to get to this point as a veteran changer in the Cup Series, from getting fired in the middle of the Daytona 500 to being doubted by countless people along the way. He also shares how he used those haters as motivation, what he's planning for the banquet in Nashville and more.Davey also discusses all three national series' finales, including Corey Heim and Carson Hocevar's run-in, Ben Rhodes' second title, Cole Custer's triumph, Blaney's hot streak culminating in his first career championship and Papa Segal also pays homage to Fonty Flock.
Ahead of Championship Weekend in Phoenix, Dr. Eric Warren, a literal rocket scientist, joins Davey Segal (6:17) to discuss Chevrolet clinching all 3 NASCAR national series manufacturer championships in what's been an ultra-successful season to date. Warren shares his thoughts on Chevrolet's chances of bringing home additional driver and owner championships this weekend, what his title as Executive Director of Global Motorsports Competition entails and his humble beginnings in the sport.Dr. Warren, who received his PhD from N.C. State in the late 1990s, explains how he helped further advance science and technology into the motorsports landscape, why he had to learn how to be a racer (despite his accent), helping create the first unofficial "war room" and how it helped immensely during COVID as well as the planning and building of the GM Technical Center in Charlotte and more.Davey also previews the Truck, Xfinity and Cup Series Championship 4 from Phoenix Raceway, the weekend that was at Martinsville Speedway, including RCR's nightmare finish (and aftermath) on Saturday and Ryan Blaney's statement win on Sunday. Plus, Papa Segal pays homage to a late great engine builder.
Champion crew chief Rodney Childers joins Davey Segal (6:25) on the heels of the sentimental weekend at Homestead-Miami Speedway, where he gave the command to fire engines. He details the moment with his family, why he didn’t have an Adam Sandler moment, gathering members from the 2014 championship team to reminisce, take photos and the No. 4 team’s up and down race on Sunday.Childers also discusses his desire to give Kevin Harvick one more win in his final season, why their partnership has worked so well for so long, how 2024 preparations are coming along with his soon-to-be driver Josh Berry and recently eclipsing the 600 starts mark as a shot caller in the Cup Series.Plus, his work with Layne Riggs and KHI Management on the late model side of things, why Michael Jordan’s continued presence at the track is beyond cool, what he thinks about the current landscape of the sport and more, including a fun story about Davey’s experience watching the No. 4 team win the 2014 championship.Davey also discusses Christopher Bell’s clutch win at Homestead to vault himself into the Championship 4, the trouble for other JGR drivers, previews Martinsville and Papa Segal pays homage to another NASCAR Hall of Famer.
Lauren Edwards of Reine Digital and Consulting joins Davey Segal this week (5:30) to discuss her unique role in the racing industry behind the scenes and how she's built a company that's vital to many drivers and brands on a daily basis.Edwards recalls the origin of Reine Digital, stemming from a call from a gondola in Colorado from Jimmie Johnson, and why pushing her outside her comfort zone was a blessing in disguise. Edwards explains how she built her company from the ground up, why she never aspired to be a business owner or work in NASCAR, how she initially got involved in the industry with Hall of Fame Racing, the Sprint program and eventually developing a social presence for Jimmie Johnson at the early onset of social media.Plus, Edwards shares which social campaign she's most proud of, what the future of Reine may look like (inside and outside of motorsports), the importance of empowering women in a male dominated industry and more.Davey also discusses Kyle Larson's Las Vegas win, Ryan Blaney's rescinded disqualification, the 4EVER 400 at Homestead-Miami Speedway and more. Plus, Papa Segal pays homage to Speedy Thompson.
2023 ARCA Menards Series East champion and Joe Gibbs Racing development driver William Sawalich joins Davey Segal (6:15) to discuss his wildly successful season to date, ending his ARCA season in Victory Lane at Toledo and how big of a change it's been to dip his toe into the Truck Series competition wise.A first generation racer from Minnesota, Sawalich explains what sparked his interest in motorsports in the first place, the pride he takes in being a Minnesotan, how his schooling works while pursuing a career in racing and why he can't wait until he turns 18.He also dishes on how he got hooked up with Toyota, JGR and TRICON Garage, his interesting nickname, the dynamic of his sister dating one of his future competitors, what it's like working with people significantly older than him, his 2024 (and 2025) plans in NASCAR's national series and more, including his outlook on some upcoming late model races to close out the calendar year.Davey also discusses the Round of 12 finale at the Charlotte Motor Speedway ROVAL, why AJ Allmendinger's win was so emotional, previews the Round of 8 and Las Vegas Motor Speedway and Papa Segal pays homage to Ralph Earnhardt.
You know him, you love him, and you wish you had his hair (at least I wish I do). The legendary Boris Said joins Davey Segal this week (7:30) ahead of his start for Hendrick Motorsports in the Xfinity Series at the Charlotte ROVAL. Said explains how the deal came together as an early Christmas present from Rick Hendrick, his time in the sport spanning multiple decades, how he's seen road course racing evolve and what he thinks the future of road course racing with stock cars looks like.Said also explains why winning at the Nürburgring is one of his top career accomplishments, that famed day in 2010 at Montreal where he earned his first career NASCAR win, the close call at Daytona in 2006, how and why he got started relatively late in racing, and of course, his infamous spat with Greg Biffle at Watkins Glen.Plus, what does he think realistic expectations are for the weekend? If things go well, will this be his last time ever racing in NASCAR? Does he still think Biffle is "the most unprofessional little scaredy cat" he's ever seen? Those answers and more lie in this conversation.Davey also recaps Ryan Blaney's win at Talladega to advance him into the Round of 8, previews the ROVAL, shares some takes on the 2024 schedule and Papa Segal pays homage to Mark Donahue.
Crew Chief Dave Elenz joins Davey Segal (7:20) to discuss LEGACY Motor Club's recent uptick in speed, including the No. 43 teams run at Texas. They also discuss how Elenz is re-adjusting to life in the Cup Series, this time as a crew chief, why he waited purposefully for the Next Gen era, why the driver is more important than ever and how the relationship he has with driver Erik Jones works so well.Elenz also reminisces on his early days growing up in Michigan, always surrounded by racing and eventually pursuing it as a career. After graduating from Clemson with an engineering degree, Elenz had stops at Jasper, MB2, Red Bull and Penske before landing at Hendrick Motorsports, where he won the 2013 Cup Series championship with Jimmie Johnson. Elenz explains why that achievement was beyond his wildest dreams and details the celebration (or lack thereof) afterwords.Plus, who calls him David? What's it like to crew chief from the war room while suspended? How did his back-to-back Xfinity Series championships compare to his Cup title? And what are goals for the remainder of 2023 with LMC ahead of their manufacturer switch to Toyota?Davey also recaps the Round of 12 opener at Texas, William Byron's triumph, Martin Truex Jr.'s struggles, previews Talladega and Papa Segal pays homage to the late NASCAR Hall of Famer Mike Stefanik.
LEGACY Motor Club's Joey Cohen joins Davey Segal (6:15) to discuss the teams recent surge of speed with Erik Jones and Carson Hocevar, the recent signing of John Hunter Nemechek and what he can bring to the team in 2024, the impending manufacturer switch to Toyota and how his day-to-day duties changed with his recent title change from Competition Director to VP of Operations.Cohen also relives his racing days as a driver, recalls his college years in Charlotte being classmates with Cliff Daniels, Rudy Fugle and other successful crew chiefs, interning with Hendrick Motorsports, being an early adopter to simulation tools and analytics in NASCAR and explains what it's like answering to two 7-time champions in Jimmie Johnson and Richard Petty.Plus, why he doesn't crew chief much anymore, what LEGACY's goals for the remainder of the season are, his side hustle(s) and why he may need a visit to the infield care center come Talladega weekend.Davey also recaps the Round of 16 finale at Bristol, Kevin Harvick and Joey Logano being eliminated, Denny Hamlin's win and subsequent boos from the fans, previews Texas and Papa Segal pays homage to an Xfinity Series legend.
Fresh off their first ever playoff berth, Big Machine Racing crew chief Patrick Donahue joins Davey Segal (6:05) to discuss the relief of locking up a postseason spot after their impressive day at Kansas. He explains the satisfaction he's had with building the team from nothing, how he got hooked up with team owner Scott Borchetta in the first place, Parker Kligerman's growth as a driver this season, their technical alliance with Richard Childress Racing and more.
Donahue, who's been around the sport for over two decades, recalls his early stops at Hendrick Motorsports where he worked with a young Jeff Gordon and Ray Evernham, building other race teams from nothing to something, some stories from the infamous BK Racing days and more.
Plus, would he ever entertain a move back to the Cup Series as a crew chief? And how far does he think Big Machine Racing can realistically go in these playoffs?
Davey recaps Tyler Reddick's OT win at Kansas, Martin Truex Jr.'s struggles heading into the Round of 16 cutoff, previews Bristol and Papa Segal pays homage to the number 200 (albeit a week late).
We've made it: Episode 200 is HERE! And one of the biggest guests in podcast history joins Davey Segal (4:45) celebrate the landmark episode: Kyle Larson.It's "Yung Money" like you've never heard before, as he discusses life on and off the racetrack, including whether he likes his nickname or not, his crew chief Cliff Daniels' competitive spirit (and is he actually a robot?), if he's ever gotten into a fight at the track and being a father of three.Larson also recalls the first time he saw his wife, Kaitlyn, shotgun a beer, what's on his racing bucket list, how Indianapolis 500 preparations are coming along, the next race he really wants (or wanted...) to win, how he feels about being compared to racing legends and how he feels about bringing home Cup Series championship No. 2 in 2023.Davey also reflects on 200 episodes of the pod and shares what lies ahead for the show.
Trackhouse Racing Director of Performance, Project 91 crew chief and Cup Series champion Darian Grubb joins Davey Segal (6:05) to discuss his all-encompassing role at the team and gearing up for the NASCAR Cup Series playoffs. Grubb explains what his role entails on a daily basis, why he got back stop the pit box for Project 91, the unforgettable weekend in Chicago with Shane van Gisbergen and the feelings of visiting Victory Lane again as a crew chief.
Grubb also explains what makes Trackhouse different, what attracted him about the organization, what he's learned after stops along the way at Hendrick, SHR, JGR and more as well as working with Hall of Fame talent like Tony Stewart, Jimmie Johnson and Denny Hamlin. He also relives the memorable 2011 season that saw him simultaneously lose his job and win a championship with Smoke over Carl Edwards.
Plus, what's the latest on SVG's move to NASCAR? Would he entertain a move back to full-time crew chiefing? How much satisfaction does he get from helping build a team brick by brick? The answers to those questions and more lie in this chat.
Davey also discusses Chris Buescher's Daytona win to close out the regular season, Ryan Preece's harrowing crash, the 16-driver Cup Series playoff field and the opener this weekend at Darlington. Papa Segal also pays homage to the No. 99 as we inch closer to a landmark episode.
Daytona International Speedway Track President Frank Kelleher joins Davey Segal (7:30) ahead of the stock car world descending on The World Center of Racing for the Cup Series regular season finale. The two discuss preparations for this weekend compared to February's Daytona 500, all the motorsports events the facility puts on throughout a calendar year and how Kelleher's role has changed dramatically since taking this position.
Kelleher also details his racing background as a WKA Karting champion, his humble roots in Scranton, Pennsylvania, racing with fellow NASCAR executives (including Ben Kennedy), why he's worked for one company and one company only over 20+ years in the sport, why he stays in a RV in the track campgrounds during big weekends, his impressive blazer collection, Wawa and Coke Zero Sugar intake and more.
Davey discusses the relatively straightforward race at Watkins Glen, previews Daytona and explains why NASCAR's new deal with Netflix is a big deal for all involved. Plus, Papa Segal pays homage to the sad end of legend LeeRoy Yarborough.
Winner winner Brickyard dinner! Front Row Motorsports crew chief Travis Peterson joins Davey Segal this week to revel in and discuss the No. 34 teams triumphant and dominant Indianapolis Road Course win (5:55). Peterson explains the satisfaction of dominating the race instead of lucking into a win, the nerves he had before and during the race, how small FRM is comparably to some other large teams he's worked with and where/how Michael McDowell stacks up on the long list of drivers and Hall of Famers he's worked with.
Peterson explains the lunch conversation that started it all and why McDowell liked one of his answers to a question, proving himself, doing more with less at Front Row, why the win wasn't a huge surprise, outlook for the playoffs, Watkins Glen this upcoming weekend and more.
Davey also discusses the Verizon 200 more in depth, including the length and time of the race, International drivers' performances and the fierce bubble battle with two races to go before the postseason. He also looks ahead to The Glen and Papa Segal pays homage to a NASCAR Hall of Famer and the No. 97.
NASCAR's favorite "Gaucho" Miguel Paludo joins Davey Segal ahead of his third and final start this season for JR Motorsports on the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Road Course (6:40). Paludo dives into the performance of his first two races this season, the struggle of getting into a rhythm while running a partial schedule and comparisons of the Xfinity car to his Porsche Carrera GT3 Cup car he races overseas.
Paludo also dives into why and how he got involved in GT3 racing, the Brazilian racing culture, the influence the great Ayrton Senna had on him and the nation, why he opted to move to the United States to pursue NASCAR full-time, his time with Red Horse Racing and Turner Scott Motorsports in the Truck Series and why adapting to NASCAR was so difficult (and long).
Plus, does he have any interest in running the Next Gen car? What does he make of all the international drivers flocking to NASCAR? Why does he still travel overseas multiple times per month? The answers to those questions and more are in this all-encompassing conversation.
Davey also recaps Chris Buescher and RFK Racing's second straight win, the star-studded field and international flare headed to the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Road Course and Papa Segal pays homage to the No. 96 with some nifty NASCAR trivia.
Christian Eckes is no stranger to the playoffs, but giving McAnally-Hilgemann Racing their first ever postseason berth is something to be proud of. Eckes joins Davey Segal this week (7:00) to discuss his mindset ahead of the CRAFTSMAN Truck Series playoffs, his two wins this season at Atlanta and Darlington, the ups and downs of his career to get to this point, rebounding after leaving Kyle Busch Motorsports and how the deal to get hooked up with Bill McAnally came together.
Eckes also dives into his newfound leadership role at the team, working with crew chief Charles Denike and teammate Jake Garcia, what it's like and what it's going to be like racing good friend Zane Smith for a championship, winning the Snowball Derby as a young teenager and the wild story of why he missed a race during his ARCA championship season.
Plus, his timeline for moving up the national series ranks, his physical fitness regimen, a preview of the first round of the playoffs, whether consistency or winning will get you from round to round and more.
Davey also briefly recaps Chris Buescher's win at Richmond, previews Michigan and Papa Segal finally relents to pay homage to "Jaws."
Scott Zipadelli, 2018 Truck Series champion and current TRICON Garage crew chief for Corey Heim, joins Davey Segal this week (6:45) ahead of the NCTS regular season finale and subsequent push for the playoffs. They discuss what sets Heim apart from the countless other drivers Zipadelli has worked with in the past, the adjustment of working with a significantly younger driver, the pressure that comes with performing at such a high level every single week and if he likes entering the postseason as one of the favorites for the championship.
Zipadelli also details his first time crew chiefing in NASCAR's national series for Ward Burton in 2000 at Darlington, making the move from Connecticut to North Carolina, why his career as a driver didn't pan out, working with Mike "Magic Shoes" McLaughlin, the countless drivers he's crew chiefed for in the past and who stands out most to him.
He also discusses the triumph of winning the 2018 Truck Series championship with Brett Moffitt and Hattori Racing Enterprises, the fun times they shared together, why he wore a SpongeBob firesuit with Ben Kennedy, his most memorable victories, if people ever confuse him with brother Greg, his favorite tattoo and realistic expectations for the playoffs with Heim and the No. 11 TRICON team.
Davey also recaps a hectic Pocono weekend, previews a hot trip to Richmond and Papa Segal pays homage to a legendary woman and the No. 94.
AJ Allmendinger stops by to chat with Davey Segal (6:20) with six races remaining in the NASCAR Cup Series regular season. The Dinger shares how he's feeling ahead of the final push for the postseason, how he'll approach the remaining races, if what those around him in the standings do impact what he does on track, why he's not just looking at the road courses for big gains or victories and if he can point his way in.
He also dives into his relationship with crew chief Matt Swiderski, why Chris Rice and Matt Kaulig "saved (him)" and helped revitalize his racing career, preparations for impending fatherhood, his improving golf game, pickleball, provides a Pocono Raceway preview and more.
Davey also reviews Martin Truex Jr.'s latest butt-whooping at New Hampshire Motor Speedway, discusses Justin Haley's move to Rick Ware Racing for 2023, Shane van Gisbergen's return to IMS next month, previews Pocono and more. Plus, Papa Segal pays homage to the No. 93 with some two-wheeled trivia.
One of the most interesting women in motorsports, Kim Coon joins Davey Segal this week (10:15) to discuss her career in motorsports and life off the racetrack spanning over a decade. They dive into her background in sports broadcasting, attending college at Miami and grad school at Alabama, her first exposure to NASCAR and how she wound up becoming Miss Sprint Cup in the 2010s.
She explains the rigorous interview process for MSC, why it was such a fun and unique job, the roles and responsibilities that came along with it, relationships she cultivated while in the position, memorable Victory Lanes and more.
Plus, she touches on joining MRN Radio after her time as MSC ended, the nerves that came along with that, her work with NASCAR Digital, how her preparation differs from job to job, joining The U's dance team as an undergrad, time as a Carolina Panthers cheerleader, passion for art, being a dog mom to Jude, an update on Glass Case of Emotion and if there's anything else on her professional bucket list down the road.
Davey recap the scintillating action from Atlanta, previews New Hampshire and Papa (and Mama) Segal pay homage to the No. 92.
Sports car ace and NASCAR moonlighter Andy Lally joins Davey Segal (6:15) ahead of the inaugural Chicago Street Course race to preview the first-of-its-kind race and event. Having prior street course experience, Lally dishes on whether or not he has an advantage for the weekend, shares his thoughts on NASCAR broadening their horizons lately, how the deal to run limited Cup races for Rick Ware Racing in 2023 came about in the DM’s with Marcus Lemonis and adjusting to the Next Gen car with little to no practice time.
Lally also reminisces on his 2011 Sprint Cup Rookie of the Year campaign, first career start at his home track of Watkins Glen back in 2009, running in the rain (and battling for the lead) last year in Portland, balancing a full IMSA schedule with his other motorsports ventures, time in the FOX booth and doing other media work and more.
Plus, how and why he became a black belt in Brazilian jiu jitsu, his reasons behind going vegan, being a championship street luge racer and why he only has one Rolex watch from his countless IMSA victories at Daytona.
Papa Segal pays homage to “The Iceman” (no, not Terry) and the No. 91, Davey reviews Ross Chastain’s statement win at Nashville and previews the Chicago Street Race.
Rookie crew chief Ryan Bergenty joins Davey Segal this week (6:10) to discuss his inaugural foray into full-time crew chiefing in the Cup Series. Coming off the first and only off weekend of the year, Bergenty explains what lies ahead for the No. 38 team at Front Row, how his adjustment to being the shot caller of an entire team has been, his comfort level, leaning on teammates like Travis Peterson and Chris Lawson and how him landing the position actually wound up starting as a joke between he and General Manager Jerry Freeze.
Bergenty also explains why he famously (literally) cut down the walls int he shop, what “Lion Mode” means to him, his racing background beginning in the Northeast that saw stops at Chip Ganassi Racing and Furniture Row Racing, among others, the tricky situation of Todd Gilliland and Zane Smith sharing the No. 38 ride this season and more, including a preview of Nashville Superspeedway this weekend.
Papa Segal pays homage to the No. 90 and Davey briefly previews NASCAR’s trip to the Music City.
ARCA Menards Series competitor and Team Hornaday Development driver Landen Lewis joins Davey Segal this week (6:15) to discuss his short yet prosperous professional career behind the wheel. Lewis explains how he got hooked up with Hall of Fame Ron Hornaday Jr. at a young age, the pressure associated with being a fourth-generation racer and growing up at the racetrack.
He also dives into his legends car success, winning the trifecta last season, how difficult it is to transition between pavement, dirt and road courses, how different it is coaching/watching compared to driving, his recent ARCA West win at Portland International Raceway, time driving for Bill McAnally and why it felt like a full circle moment and objectives for the remainder of this season. Plus, why he likes singing, how Hornaday is as a landlord and more.
Davey also recaps Sonoma and Papa Segal pays homage to the No. 89.
Josh Williams (the spotter, not the driver) joins Davey Segal this week for a discussion surrounding all things atop the spotters stand (7:25). Williams discusses the tangible momentum he and Ryan Blaney felt coming off their Coca-Cola 600 win snapping a long winless streak, what it meant to win a championship last season with Zane Smith, how the job of spotting has evolved over the years and how/if he does his job differently driver to driver and series to series.
A self-described "washed up golfer," Williams explains his history on the links and why the game holds such an importance and impact on his life and career. He also dives into his unique relationship with the late Dale Earnhardt, what his father did for "The Intimidator," the hilarious story of how and why he pissed Big E off and more.
Plus, the story behind how he started stop the spotters stand with Scott Speed, when Ryan Blaney came into the picture, how much of a sneaker-head he really is, why Denny Hamlin won't let him in his holf league, how good Blaney is at golf, why dating someone in the motorsports industry helps his unique lifestyle, what else is on his spotting bucket list and how close he came to spotting the Indianapolis 500.
Davey also recaps Kyle Busch's third win of 2023 at Gateway, previews Sonoma this weekend and Papa Sega; pays homage to the No. 88.
Motorsports reporter and broadcaster extraordinaire Georgia Henneberry joins Davey Segal this week (6:10) to discuss all that she covers in racing spanning multiple series and disciplines. From IndyCar, to NASCAR, to winged sprint cars, midgets, IMSA and more. Henneberry has diversified her skillset in a short period of time, and dives into the preparation and challenges associated with covering different disciplines and in different mediums.
Henneberry also discusses her background in motorsports, how horses sparked her love for competition and racing, her racing career, decision to go into the reporting side of things, how to navigate dating a competitor that you cover, tips and tricks of the trade for road trips/flights, the secret behind St. Louis pizza and more, including what else she'd like to accomplish in her broadcasting career.
Davey also recaps the Coca-Cola 600 won by Ryan Blaney, dives into NASCAR's decision to suspend Chase Elliott, Stewart-Haas Racing's L3 penalty, previews Gateway and Portland and Papa Segal pays homage to Front Row Joe and the No. 87.
Ryan Preece A.K.A. "Preece Lightning" joins Davey Segal this week (6:00) to discuss NASCAR's return to North Wilkesboro Speedway for the All-Star Race. The two discuss the palpable energy surrounding the event, if this opens the door for future events to be held at smaller tracks and why the Northeast would be a great region to expand.Preece dives into his special relationship with his road and pit crew, crew chief Chad Johnston, assesses the No. 41 team's performance halfway through the regular season, his pole and Stage 1 win at Martinsville, gnarly Talladega crash and more.Plus, throwing back to his father for Darlington, his shifting schedule and focusing more on SHR and the Cup Series, his exciting news on the personal front, farm life and preparations for the Coca-Cola 600 this weekend.Davey also discusses his experience at North Wilkesboro for All-Star weekend, Kyle Larson's dominant butt-whooping, previews NASCAR's longest race and Papa Segal pays homage to the No. 86 from overseas.
Todd Gilliland is enjoying a career season in the NASCAR Cup Series for Front Row Motorsports and joins Davey Segal this week (6:30) to discuss it. He dives into what's been different so far in his sophomore season at Front Row Motorsports, how much more comfortable he feels on a weekly basis and how his new crew chief Ryan Bergenty has taken "Lion Mode" and leadership to a new level on the No. 38 team,Gilliland also touches on having some races taken away by Zane Smith, navigating the personal and professional awkwardness with a friend on and off-track, joining KHI Management, riding horses with Harrison Burton, cutting his own hair, life as a married man, expectations for the rest of the year and North Wilkesboro Speedway this weekend.Davey also touches on William Byron's win at Darlington, Ross Chastain's latest on-track run in, previews North Wilkesboro and the All-Star Race and Papa Segal, all the way from Greece (!) pays homage to the No. 85.
Phillip Smalley, Vice President of Motorsports Management International, joins Davey Segal (6:10) for a bit of a different conversation this week surrounding driver representation. Smalley, who essentially serves as a driver agent for the likes of Ross Chastain, Justin Haley and others, dives into his busy last couple weeks, the re-launch of MMI, how Cary Agajanian's vision continues to live on and the significance of Agajanian in the driver representation market.Smalley also discusses Chastain's involvement with MMI as a founding member and owner, his personal relationship with the Melon Man, conversations had after tense moments on and off-track with Chastain, his background in motorsports and why he opted to go down the business path, building relationships, dealing with large sums of money, his future goals and aspirations and more.Davey also recaps a scintillating race from Kansas Speedway, why Denny Hamlin's move on Kyle Larson wasn't dirty, previews Darlington Throwback Weekend and Papa Segal pays homage to the No. 84.
The winningest crew chief in Xfinity Series history and most recent winner at Dover, Jason Ratcfliff joins Davey Segal this week (6:20) to discuss the feel-good story that was Ryan Truex's first career NXS win at long last at Dover Motor Speedway. They discuss why the win was a long time coming, if Ratcliff felt any extra added pressure given Truex's situation and pressure put on himself and why he celebrated for not just one but two reasons.Ratcliff also dives into what sets Truex apart from the other drivers he's worked with, how having nine drivers in and out of the seat worked last season, how he got started in motorsports, his loyalty spanning almost two full decades to Joe Gibbs Racing, working with some all-time greats, setting records in the Xfinity Series and more.Davey recaps the Truex Dover sweep from the Monster Mile, touches on Ross Chastain's latest on-track dust-up, briefly previews Kansas and Papa Segal pays a heartfelt homage to the No. 83.
A handful of races into his rookie season, Parker Retzlaff joins Davey Segal (5:25) to discuss his solid start to the season with Jordan Anderson Racing thus far and how he's adjusting to a full-time rookie in NASCAR. He dives into what got him here, his background as a first-generation racer from Wisconsin, getting started in lower levels and working his way up to the K&N Pro Series before making his debut in the Xfinity Series last season.Retzlaff also discusses the importance of seat time, why showing his peers that he can race clean and well goes a long way, his involvement with Team Dillon Management, relationship with Austin Dillon, history with the No. 79, why he's a fan of Kyle Larson and how iRacing has played an integral role in his career.Plus, Davey touches on Kyle Busch's Talladega win, previews what's sure to be a wet weekend in Dover and Papa Segal turns the wayback machine on himself to pay homage to the No. 82.
Championship winning crew chief Chris Lawson joins Davey Segal this week (5:50) to discuss his hot start to the 2023 season with Zane Smith in the CRAFTSMAN Truck Series. He also dives into what sets Smith apart from other drivers he's worked with in the past, his time winning back-to-back K&N Pro Series West championships with Todd Gilliland, the highs and lows of almost winning the East title the same season they won out West, his short-lived racing career and why he opted to make a living in motorsports on the crew chief side of things.Lawson also discusses his road to Front Row Motorsports and becoming a shot caller in the Truck Series, the personal satisfaction it gave him to see Gilliland advance to the Cup Series with FRM and when he knew that they'd have a legitimate shot at winning the 2022 series title. Plus, details on his reunion this weekend at Talladega Superspeedway with Gilliland, why he prefers the Truck Series to the Cup Series, how he got the nickname "Tic Tac" and more.Davey also recaps Kyle Larson's Martinsville win, why the short track package continues to underwhelm, what potential changes could be made and previews Talladega. Papa Segal also pays homage to a NASCAR Hall of Famer with the No. 81.
Davey Segal welcomes on his youngest guest in podcast history in the form of Jake Garcia to the program (6:25) on the heels of his career-best top five finish at Texas Motor Speedway. The two dive into his season to date, debut at Las Vegas this year and series debut last year at Gateway, how he got involved in racing in the first place and who really was the catalyst for his involvement with motorsports.Garcia explains how the deal with McAnally-Higlemann Racing and Bill McAnally came together for 2023, what it was like having Chase Elliott drive the No. 35 truck at Daytona while he was still 17-years-old, the relationship with his crew chief Mark Hillman, teammate Christian Eckes, realistic expectations for this season and more, including his late model experience and whether or not he'd like to run the Snowball Derby again.Davey discusses the storylines coming out of Richmond, including Kyle Larson's first win of the season, Hendrick's penalty amendment and the appeals panel taking over headlines previews Bristol Dirt and Papa Segal pays homage to the No. 80.
Kaz Grala joins Davey Segal (6:20) to discuss how he's gelling with Sam Hunt Racing in his first full-time NASCAR national series season in several years. They dive into how being in the Toyota driver development program is a huge help to a younger driver, how fitness plays an integral role, his relationship with crew chief Allen Hart, team owner Sam Hunt and more.Plus, Grala discusses why and how his sponsors have been of the utmost importance in making this full-time effort happen, his additional seat time in the Truck Series with TRICON Garage, his experience running for The Money Team and Floyd Mayweather and what realistic goals are for the remainder of 2023.Davey also discusses Tyler Reddick's dominant COTA win, the uptick in aggressiveness at the end of the race, Hendrick's louver penalty amendment, previews Richmond, Papa Segal pays homage to the 1979 Daytona 500 and Robin makes an impromptu appearance.
Championship winning spotter (and driver, kind of) Coleman Pressley stops by the podcast with Davey Segal (8:10) on the heels of his Alanta Motor Speedway win with Joey Logano. The two get into the wild finish at AMS, racing against his former driver Brad Keselowski, his relationship with Logano on and off-track and why it's so important to ensure that driver-spotter relationship is in tip-top shape.He also gets into his spotting history, how it came about, learning the craft and whether or not he feels content in year No. 8 atop the roof. Pressley also had a successful driving career, setting records a Hickory Motor Speedway and making it to the Xfinity Series before the economy and other factors prematurely ended his racing efforts. He gets into how and why things didn't work out, how instrumental his father, Robert Pressley, was in his career and what it was like to strap back behind the wheel for the first time in eight years and win the Fall Brawl with Logano as HIS spotter late last year.Plus, his broadcasting work with FOX Sports, how Logano is as a babysitter, why the best hot dog in NASCAR isn't in Martinsville and more.Davey recaps Atlanta, Logano's first win of the season, previews COTA, the interlopers participating in this weekend's race and Papa Segal pays homage to the No. 78 and a memorable moment for Davey on Twitter.
Kyle Rickey of MRN and Stafford Speedway joins Davey Segal (7:00) to discuss his career in radio, motorsports and how the two have converged going on the better part of two plus decades. He recalls the day he was legally allowed to work at a radio station (his birthday), why he was infatuated with radio from a young age, how monster trucks sparked his interest in motorsports and growing up in the Northeast with a unique racing culture surrounding him.He also dives into how he got hooked up with the Motor Racing Network, his audition at New Hampshire Motor Speedway, duties he currently holds and has held over the years, his first Daytona 500 and Rolex 24 broadcasts and more. Plus, his Disney obsession, insane rolodex of selfies and what's left on his professional motorsports bucket list.Davey also touches on William Byron's second consecutive victory at Phoenix, previews Atlanta and Papa Segal pays homage to the Buckeye Bullet.
Another week, another JR Motorsports crew chief on the show. Taylor Moyer joins Davey Segal (8:15) to discuss the season to date with his driver Josh Berry, what it's been like working with one driver the last two seasons compared to nine (!) he worked with in 2021, how that helped him become a better crew chief and what it was like when Dale Earnhardt Jr. A.K.A. "Bossman" sat behind the wheel for Taylor.Moyer discusses his roots in the Northeast and the racing culture in Vermont growing up, why he opted to head south to pursue a career in racing, attending UNCC, working throughout college, getting hooked up with Hendrick Motorsports at his grandparents 50th wedding anniversary party, working his way up from the developmental pit crew to the chassis shop, getting the call (and almost missing it) from Rick Hendrick asking to become a crew chief at JR Motorsports and more.Plus, the hilarious story of when he thought Sam Mayer was peeing in his ear (yes, really), learning from Chad Knaus and Steve Letarte and how he tailors his leadership style, realistic expectations for this year with Josh and why wins aren't the No. 1 goal for him as a shot caller in 2023.Davey also reviews William Byron's win at Las Vegas, looks ahead to Phoenix, the debut of the new package and Papa Segal pays homage to a NASCAR Hall of Famer.
Mardy Lindley may be new to JR Motorsports as a crew chief in the Xfinity Series, but he's no stranger to success in the sport. The shot caller joins joins Davey Segal (8:00) to discuss his relationship with Sam Mayer, how far back they go, why they work so well together and what realistic expectations are for the pair this season at JRM. They also dive into seeing his car upside down at Daytona, the reunion between the two for 2023 and more.Lindley also talks about his driving career, why he opted to go the crew chief route despite success behind the wheel, his first jobs in the sport at Roush Fenway and HScott, winning a championship with Dylan Kwasnewski, working with young drivers and his time at Kyle Busch Motorsports. Plus, he shares some memories of his late father and longtime then-Busch Series competitor Butch, a story of how (and why) he worked for Dale Earnhardt in 1992 and whether he has aspirations to crew chief at the NASCAR Cup Series level.Davey recaps the final race at the 2-mile Auto Club Speedway and Kyle Busch's return to Victory Lane. He also dives into why the elimination of this track was inevitable, the future of the venue and previews Las Vegas this weekend. Papa Segal (with some help from Mama Segal) also look back on the founder of NASCAR while paying homage to the No. 75.
Well, would you look at the time? TRICON Garage's Corey Heim joins Davey Segal (6:40) to discuss all that's shiny and new at the rebranded race team for the 2023 season. He dives into the timetable of leaving Kyle Busch Motorsports, how Toyota handled having one of their prospects not having a set destination, what it was like racing for Kyle Busch, the pressure that comes along with that and memories of his first win at his home track of Atlanta Motor Speedway.He also touches on the validation his second win at Gateway carried, the TRD simulator, his background on short tracks, the CARS Tour, new tracks he's excited to get to and more.Plus, Davey recaps the 65th annual Daytona 500 won by Ricky Stenhouse Jr. and what it means for JTG-Daugherty Racing, previews the final race on the 2-mile Auto Club Speedway and Papa Segal pays homage to the 1974 Winston Cup season.
Ahead of his rookie Craftsman Truck Series season, GMS Racing's Daniel Dye joins Davey Segal (6:10) to discuss how he's been preparing throughout the off-season for his first year as a full-time NCTS driver. The two discuss Legacy Motor Club's transformation, Jimmie Johnson being a presence in the building, leaning on teammates Rajah Caruth and Grant Enfinger and how his 2022 ARCA Menards Series season ended.Plus, they discuss his time racing for Ben Kennedy on the late model side, how instrumental his dad has been in his racing career, realistic expectations for this season, what it'd mean to win at his home track of Daytona and what the deal is with his hairdo.Davey also recaps The Clash at The Coliseum, Martin Truex Jr.'s win after 38 winless weeks last year, the future of the exhibition event, why this version of the event was much more caution filled and Papa Segal pays homage to the No. 73.
The pod is back in 2023 and Davey Segal kicks things off with Spire Motorsports crew chief Kevin Bellicourt (7:30). The two discuss what he's been up to throughout the off-season, how he's gelling with new driver Ty Dillon, what it was like to crew chief for several drivers over the course of last season, the adjustment of doing so for one driver this season and why he opted to fly across the country to get to know his new driver a little better.He discusses the confidence Dillon carries and why that carries legitimate weight on the track, the progression Spire Motorsports has shown in their short time as a Cup Series organization and what the future for the team looks like. Plus, Bellicourt details his Daytona roots, what drew him to motorsports, his progression and involvement with multiple different teams and drivers on his way up and provides a preview of the Busch Light Clash at the LA Memorial Coliseum this weekend.While it's a new year, Papa Segal returns for his first wayback segment of 2023, paying homage to the No. 72 and Davey previews the second annual Clash in LA to unofficially kick off the 75th NASCAR season.
Sage Karam joins Davey Segal (5:55) on the heels of announcing his 2023 plans in the Xfinity Series with Alpha Prime Racing. The two go back to discuss growing up Nazareth, PA in and around racing, how the famed Andretti family was instrumental in his racing career, moving his way up through the open-wheel ranks before eventually changing course to NASCAR. He explains what it was like to adjust on the fly to racing a stock car, what it felt like the first time and how he attached Bristol of all places for one of his first starts.Karam also dives into conquering his demons at Pocono Raceway, why he felt the need to ride his bicycle around The Tricky Triangle before the Xfinity Series race this past year, what it felt like to drive through Turn 1 at speed and how he got through the preceding 7 years. He also explains why a moment at the Indianapolis 500 parade with Justin Wilson's children was huge in his healing process, discusses why wrestling is so instrumental to his life personally and professionally and outlines his goals and expectations for 2023.Plus, Papa Segal pays homage to The Gentle Giant, Davey discusses some Silly Season moves so far this off-season and more.
Harrison Burton joins Davey Segal (5:20) to discuss his rookie season in the Cup Series with the Wood Brothers and all the ups and down that came with it. He discusses the steep jump from the Xfinity to Cup, gelling with his crew chief Brian Wilson, dealing with a myriad of adjustments, how much of an alliance WBR really has with Team Penske, what Harrison has learned about himself in this trying season and more.Plus, Papa Segal pays homage to one of his heroes and Davey discusses a couple big Silly Season moves ahead of 2023.
The checkered flag has flown on the 2022 NASCAR season, and Papa Segal joins Davey to discuss Championship Weekend from Phoenix that saw Zane Smith, Ty Gibbs and Joey Logano secure their respective series titles. The duo discusses each race and champion, whether the title deciding event should rotate each year moving forward, where Logano stacks up in terms of the current crop of Cup drivers, Coy Gibbs' sudden and tragic passing, Ty Gibbs' maturation process, the Next Gen car's debut this season, safety as an evolution in motorsports and more. Plus, a ~nice~ homage to the No. 69 to send you info the off-season and Mama Segal makes a cameo.
She's back! Davey's better half. Robin, joins him fresh off her first in-person experience at a NASCAR race at Martinsville Speedway (6:10). She discusses her major takeaways from the weekend, the importance of scanners and how they enhanced her experience, a highly-awaited review of the Martinsville hot dog, how fan access differs at NASCAR events compared to other stick and ball sports, her thoughts on Ty Gibbs' move on Brandon Jones, Ross Chastain's "Hail Melon" and more.Plus, the two give their Championship 4 picks for Phoenix, Davey dives into Gibbs and Chastain's moves further, explains why the former needs to clean up his act and the latter was so impactful across sports and culture, Papa Segal pays homage to a pioneer.
The self-proclaimed Sauce Boi™ A.K.A. Myatt Snider joins Davey Segal this week (6:45) to discuss the 2022 season, his first with Jordan Anderson Racing in the Xfinity Series, how different the year has been with a smaller and newer team, the size of JAR compared to other organizations and the family atmosphere the team fosters with Jordan Anderson at the helm.Snider dishes on how his boss is doing following the harrowing Talladega wreck and fire, his management style, how the two relate being racers through and through and more. He also relives winning his first career ARCA start and how he was quickly humbled after it, his time with KBM and ThorSport in the Truck Series and RCR in Xfinity, his Homestead-Miami win in 2021, time in the Whelen Euro Series and how he reflects on it years later, his scary wreck at Daytona to open up this season and how he wound up spotting for a former Formula 1 driver in a NASCAR race this year.Plus, Snider provides an update on his passion for aviation, explains why he loves math so much, roots for multiple NFL teams, doesn't like guinea pigs but loves chickens (yes, really), shares his best dad joke and more, including a preview of what he has in store for 2023 and how influential his father, NBC Sports' Marty Snider, has been in his racing career.Davey discusses Kyle Larson's butt-whooping at Homestead, the playoff picture heading into Martinsville, what to expect in the penultimate race of the year and Papa Segal pays homage to Elton Sawyer.
JD Motorsports wheelman Bayley Currey joins Davey Segal (6:40) to discuss his unique career to date and his time in 2022 driving full-time for Johnny Davis. They chat about the grind that is the NASCAR season, the freedom and comfort running for one team in every race allows him as a driver and whether it makes him feel old to have 100 starts in the Xfinity Series.Currey, a native Texan, describes what the racing scene was like growing up in the Lone Star State, why he was resigned to the fact that he'd never make it in NASCAR as a driver, how that changed, his first starts in the sport and how he eventually progressed. From DJ Copp to Mike Harmon to Rick Ware and everywhere (and everyone) in between, Currey made his presence known at every stop, even competing in some Cup Series races along the way.He also dives into his brief suspension and road to recovery, his relationship with Johnny Davis, how the deal for 2022 came together, working with an iconic brand like Alka-Seltzer, punching above his weight and what he'll be doing next year with JDM.Davey also discusses NASCAR's decision to suspend Bubba Wallace one race for intentionally wrecking Kyle Larson at Las Vegas and Papa Segal pays homage to the No. 66 in an unorthodox way, as he does.
The duo of Sarah and Bridget Burgess will make history this weekend, becoming the first daughter duo to compete in the same NASCAR or ARCA Menards Series event. Two of the hardest working women in motorsports join Davey Segal (5:35) to explain how the idea was born, why it's coming to fruition this weekend at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway Bullring and reminisce on the last time the two raced against each other and how it may go this time around.Sarah and Bridget explain why they opted to move to the United States from Australia to pursue a career in racing, the ups and downs associated with the move, outline where both of their passions for racing began, why off-roading was the initial path and touch on female representation in motorsports. Sarah shares some laughs about being a one-woman crew, Bridget explains how it feels to flip the script and be the teacher for a change and both discuss Utah Motorsports Campus, how that fits into their day-to-day lives and what the short and long term goals are for Bridget.Davey discusses the Round of 12 cutoff at the Charlotte Motor Speedway ROVAL, Christopher Bell's clutch win, Cole Custer's move that wound up resulting in a penalty from NASCAR and touches on why the ruling creates a slippery slope for the sanctioning body. Plus, Papa Segal pays homage to everybody's favorite "Buddy."
Fresh off his first career NASCAR national series victory, return guest (!) Matt DiBenedetto joins Davey Segal (5:25) to discuss his Talladega triumph, the feeling of relief after winning, the strange nature surrounding the win, emotional calls he received in Victory Lane and how he (or didn’t) celebrate.
DiBenedetto also discusses his move from the Cup Series down to Trucks and how the adjustment has been thus far on and off track. Plus, getting up to speed quick having never piloted a Truck ahead of the season opener, dodging the aggressiveness around him and why Rackley W.A.R. wound up being the right place at the right time for him.
He also gets real about how 2021 ended, from the Wood Brothers departure, to his off-track behavior and more. DiBenedetto explains how he’s moved on from that time period, is better for it and has his focus on the here and now with Rackley. And would he ever consider a return to the Cup Series?
Davey briefly recaps a rather tame Talladega Cup race, previews the Round of 12 cutoff at the ROVAL and Papa Segal pays homage to the No. 64.
Xfinity Series competitor Kyle Weatherman joins Davey Segal (5:50) to discuss his racing career and season to date with Jesse Iwuji Motorsports. They dive into when a trip to a go-kart shop started it all, how David Ragan was involved, winning national bandolero and legends titles, moving to North Carolina, living with Chris Buescher and his wife, Emma and working his way up through the stock car ranks.
Weatherman details when work ethic really came into play, adjusting from short tracks and small cars to big tracks and heavier cars, how the deal with Jesse Iwuji Motorsports came together, why he enjoys being hands on with the cars he races, learning from previous teams (including trips to Applebee's with Mike Harmon) and providing them top 10 finishes, the satisfaction he gets from over-performing in underfunded equipment, the difference in Cup Series competition, what the support from Dale Earnhardt Jr. means to him, his plans for the rest of this and next season and more.
Davey also discusses the Texas debacle, what can/needs to be done to fix the track and Papa Segal (with more help than usual from Mama Segal) pays homage to the No. 63.
Jeffrey Earnhardt joins Davey Segal (6:40) to debrief his season to date in the NASCAR Xfinity Series and top 15 run at Bristol with Sam Hunt Racing. He explains why running a partial schedule with no real momentum has been a challenge and how he and team owner Sam Hunt joined forces.
Having a famous last name, Earnhardt has been unfairly labeled as a racer who's had everything given to him, but that couldn't be further from the truth. The grandson of "The Intimidator" explains why his family didn't want him to race in the first place, why his last name is a blessing and a curse as well as how the trials and tribulations he's gone through make him better.
Earnhardt piloted the famed No. 3 car for Richard Childress Racing at Talladega earlier this year, winning the pole and finishing second. He reminisces about that memorable day, his time running in the Cup Series, driving for a laundry list of organizations, the monumental jump from Xfinity to Cup, whether he wants to get back to the top level of stock car racing and more. Plus, his passion for fishing, the biggest one he's ever caught, why he opted to try MMA for a bit, his expectations for Texas this weekend and the remainder of the 2022 season.
Papa Segal pays homage to "Uncle Brenny," Davey discusses the Round of 16 elimination race at Bristol, the Next Gen issues that persisted and looks ahead to the Round of 12 at Texas.
Truck Series competitor Colby Howard joins Davey (6:25) to dive into his motorsports career which has led him to piloting the No. 91 Chevrolet for McAnally-Higlemann Racing in the Truck Series. But before he was on four wheels on pavement, he raced on two wheels on dirt. He recalls the accidents and hospital visits that led him to ultimately pursue stock cars.
A third generation racer, Howard explains why motorsports was always going to be a part of his life in some form or fashion, how he wound up making his first Truck Series starts with Young's Motorsports and what it was like racing on an intermediate track for the first time. From there, he joined JD Motorsports before unceremoniously splitting toward the end of the 2021 season.
Howard gets real about the split, how it went down, his feelings about it and why he made the decision to go down to the Truck Series with MHR full-time from the Xfinity Series. He also dives into his relationship with teammate Derek Kraus, the lack of practice for a younger driver, his run-in with Carson Hocevar at IRP and why he didn't opt to act out in the immediate aftermath, his expectations for the remainder of the season and more.
Plus, Davey chats about Bubba Wallace's Kansas domination and Papa Segal pays homage to a modified legend.
The man known as HD3, Howie DiSavino III, joins Davey Segal (7:35) to discuss his career in motorsports as a first-generation racer. He dives into how racing got on his radar while growing up on a farm in Chesterfield, Virginia, the trip to Richmond Raceway that wound up being the catalyst for his career, getting started in arena racing, why he calls going late model racing after that "the dumbest step" of his development and racing at iconic tracks like Southside and Dominion.
DiSavino's ARCA debut was a memorable one at Elko Speedway, as he came home with a top 10 finish. He recalls that event, his first time running on the high banks of Daytona, his Truck Series debut and the decision to race at Las Vegas mere days after losing his mother to cancer.
He also discusses how he met Austin Theriault, how instrumental the former driver has been in his career, giving back to the veteran and cancer communities, how he wound up with Alpha Prime Racing and the approach he takes with limited practice.
Davey discusses Erik Jones' upset victory in the playoff opener at Darlington, his trip to France and Papa Segal winds the wayback machine back up for No. 60.
Tasked with being one of the many voices of NASCAR at the Motor Racing Network, Alex Hayden joins Davey Segal (6:25) to discuss his unique background and career in and out of motorsports. He dives into why he initially wanted to go into medicine or acting before racing, his time working at Universal Studios and playing football in high school before racing came calling.
Hayden explains how his father's job as a racing photographer was the catalyst for his passion in motorsports, how he got his first job at Wayne County Speedway and the memorable story of a secret tape recording wound up helping him land an audition at MRN. After nerves at Disney World Speedway, Hayden officially was a member of the team, and did so with broadcasting legends by his side in the late 1990s at Rockingham Speedway.
He dives into what his first race on the mic was like, progression from pit reporter to turn announcer to now in the booth, the moment he felt like he'd made it in the sport, advice from the late Barney Hall (including a classic story involving 9 holes of golf) and more. Hayden also dabbled in television, and shares his experiences on screen and how they differ from radio.
Plus, his work at Mount Olive University, time acting in the show "One Tree Hill" and how it came about, getting hit by a car on a bike at six-years-old (!), why he flew to Alaska (and back) in a single day and what's left on his professional motorsports bucket list.
Papa Segal pays homage to the No. 59 with a familiar name, Davey discusses Kevin Harvick snapping his 65-race winless streak and popping the proverbial playoff bubble and shares a quick programming update.
Fresh off a top 10 finish in his Truck Series debut, late model ace Layne Riggs joins Davey Segal (6:50) to discuss how the race went, why he wanted more despite turning plenty of heads at IRP, how the deal came together in the first place and why he's even more excited to head to Richmond for his second race with Halmar Friesen Racing.
After his debut, Riggs (on virtually no sleep) won at Dominion Raceway the next day, continuing his success in the Weekly Series. He explains why he opted to gun for that championship in 2022 instead of running on the CARS Tour, his long-term goals in the sport following in his father Scott's footsteps, the respect level on the late model side vs. Truck Series and more.
Plus, Riggs dives into the adjustment level between NASCAR and late models, his first experience with the Toyota simulator, his confidence level already being high, why he started racing only after his dad got out of the sport as a driver, what it's like having his das as a crew chief, pursuing a mechanical engineering degree while racing and what he'd like to accomplish as early as next year as it relates to NASCAR.
Dylan "Mamba" Smith radiates positivity in everything he does, and joins the podcast to do so this week (4:50). He dives into what his role as Chief Hype Officer (yes, that's his actual title) at NASCAR entails, why he chose that specific title and how he got his "Black Mamba" nickname.
Mamba is set to make his ARCA Menards Series debut at IRP for Young's Motorsports, a culmination of a lifelong dream and promise. He explains how the deal came together with the help from many in the industry, including why he chose to pay homage to friend AJ Allmendinger with his paint scheme. IRP likely will be his only race of the year, and Mamba explains why he'll be busy during the week of the Snowball Derby this year.
He also dives into how he first got involved in racing growing up in Vermont, how northeast racing values shaped his view of the sport and when/why he opted to move down to Charlotte to pursue a driving career, how his experience in the Drive for Diversity program wasn't what he imagined and how he kept the faith after repeatedly being turned away from getting a seat.
Throughout it all, Smith worked as a mechanic, communications representative and has now transitioned to the media side as an on-air and on-camera host, all the while maintaining his roles with MPI, Ferrari and now Monster Jam?! It's hard to keep it all straight, but Mamba makes sure it's always a #GDTBA.
Davey discusses his trip to Pocono Raceway and the huge news regarding the top two Joe Gibbs Racing cars being disqualified, handing the win to Chase Elliott.
Mike Bagley joins Davey Segal for part two of their discussion (7:20), focused on Bagman's time at SiriusXM NASCAR Radio, including how the opportunity to host on the channel came about, learning the intricacies of being an interviewer and why he was a bit nervous when originally taking the job.
In the early stages of "The Morning Drive," Bagley unexpectedly lost his then co-host David Poole. He details how he and the channel picked up the pieces to move forward a when Pete Pistone came into the picture as his co-host. He also dives into creating a bond with the listeners, asking fair but hard questions and his usual schedule working early mornings.
Plus, a memorable story involving a Dale Earnhardt interview, reflecting on his career to this point (including his time with NBC), memorable moments on TMD, his fascination with technology, why he's moved a lot and what he'd like to do when his time in motorsports comes to an end.
Davey also recaps Christopher Bell's second career win and first at New Hampshire Motor Speedway, Papa Segal pays homage to a rather unfamiliar name and Robin makes a surprise appearance.
At long last, Mike Bagley of MRN and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio joins Davey (5:45) for the first installment of their long awaited chat. He dives into his recent trip out West, what he did before becoming involved in motorsports, how his passion for racing began in Delaware and how the sport played an integral part in his relationship with his father.
While playing with toy cars on carpets modeled after race tracks, Bagley grew infatuated with the radio and the art of it. He dives into how he first wound up working for MRN, his first on-air broadcast at Watkins Glen being "a big mess," learning from broadcasting legends on the job, honing his craft, how his role with MRN progressed and when he felt comfortable in his own skin.
Stick around next week for Part 2 with The Bagman!
Davey also analyzes Tyler Reddick's first career Cup Series victory at Road America, Noah Gragson's polarizing move on Sage Karam and Papa Segal pays homage to a large fellow named Tiny.
Another week, another bonus episode! This time, the winner in the Cup Series stops by in the form of Tyler Reddick. The Road America victor discusses his son Beau stealing the show by sleeping through the victory celebration, why his son is a Chase Elliott fan, whether the win has actually sunk in or not, if he doubted himself in the aftermath of Bristol, if the No. 8 team can legitimately contend for the championship and more.
The man with one of the coolest jobs in NASCAR joins Davey Segal this week, as Cup Series assistant director and pace car driver Kip Childress (4:45) discusses his upbringing in the sport as a third-generation NASCAR official, how he got his start officiating at Caraway Speedway and a story involving peppermints and the legendary Bill France Sr.
Childress has worked at every level of the sport, be it local, regional, even international and all three national series. He takes us through his journey to assistant Cup Series director, explains why he's learned tips and tricks of the trade every step along the way and outlines how he choreographs hauler parking every week for the unsung heroes of the sport.
Childress also dives into driving the pace car every week, what goes into it that fans don't see, if he's ever come close to wrecking, cool celebrities he's driven with, how the duties of the pace car differ from track to track and more, including his time behind the microphone past and present, how often people assume he's related to Richard Childress and if he'd like to accomplish anything else in the sport.
Davey also recaps Nashville Superspeedway, previews Road America and Papa Segal ponders where in the world is car No. 54?
Nashville Superspeedway track president Erik Moses joins Davey Segal this week (7:05) ahead of the venue's second annual Cup Series race weekend. They discuss the road Moses took to become the first black track president in NASCAR history, whether holding that title means anything to him, why "representation matters," how much NASCAR was on his radar before taking the job, learning an entirely new industry on the fly, who he leaned on for information and why the challenge of revitalizing a dormant race track was the reason he took the position.
The two also discuss Moses' time in the XFL with the DC Defenders, working in the nations capitol as the "Sports Commissioner," his time as a lawyer and teaching at Georgetown University. steps the track has taken to alleviate the parking issues that plagued them in 2021 and more.
Davey briefly recaps the Truck Series event from Knoxville, previews Nashville Superspeedway and Papa Segal pays homage to a well-known No. 53.
Surprise! In a rare bonus episode this week, Davey Segal chats with 2018 Cup Series champion Joey Logano with 10 races to go in the 2022 regular season. They discuss stages on road courses, whether the Cup Series will reach the 16 winner mark this year, the lack of off weekends and Nashville Superspeedway.
Plus, Davey also faces the music from Joey after impersonating him on TikTok for the last year and a half. Does Joey watch the videos? What does he think of them? And how good is Davey's actual impression of Joey? The answers to those questions and more in this bonus episode.
Niece Motorsports general manager Cody Efaw joins Davey Segal (6:50) to dive into his extensive career that has led him to helping run one of the premier NASCAR Camping World Truck Series organizations. He recalls his early exposure to racing on dirt with his family, why he fell out of love with racing and his eventual decision to drop out of college and move to North Carolina to pursue a career in motorsports.
Shortly after settling in NC, he landed at Roush Racing in the midst of its heyday, where no job was off the table. From a tire changer to a car chief and everything in between, he gained valuable experience and mentorship from Matt Puccia. But the grind became too much and he opted to step away from the sport for a second time.
In came Al Niece, and Efaw was drawn back in on the competition side. He details how Niece convinced him to help run the organization in its infancy, meeting Ross Chastain and knowing he had that "it" factor, the whirlwind 2019 season, why there'd "be no company" without Chastain in the fold and racing with next to nothing in the team bank account.
Efaw also discusses why finally checking off the box of winning a race as a crew chief and why it wasn't what he envisioned, gushes about Carson Hocevar, his resiliency in returning to the seat from injury and why he's actually staying at Efaw's house. Plus, could Niece Motorsports expand to the Xfinity or Cup Series? And are they working on getting a Cup Series owner in a Truck later this season?
Davey recaps Daniel Suarez's historic first-career victory at Sonoma, his career redemption arc, Trackhouse Racing's continued impressiveness and more. Papa Segal also pays homage to Jimmy "Smut" Means.
In a bit of a different conversation this week, Davey Segal chats with graphic designer Noah Sweet (7:00) about the importance of mental health and his struggles with it over the last few years. On September 2, 2020, "Lefty," as he's affectionately known, vanished. Multiple social media posts left his friends and family worried for his safety. He was in a bad place.
For the first time publicly, Sweet opens up extensively about the darkest time in his life, the events that led to him hitting a breaking point, why he felt he needed to just get away, what the specific time period for him was like, dealing with anxiety, depression, suicidal thoughts and how he is continuing to work his way through it.
Shortly after he returned home, Ally presented him with the chance to design a car for his hero: Jimmie Johnson. Sweet explains why, in hindsight, he didn't necessarily love how it all played out, but felt it was an opportunity he couldn't turn down given the solidarity the community showed him. But he's now continually working on a better version of himself and advocating for mental health awareness. An often taboo topic, Sweet is attempting to let people know they're not alone and as the cliché "it's okay to not be okay" couldn't be more true.
The two also discuss how he got his nickname, his grandfather's time racing on water, the feeling of his work coming to fruition and being on the racetrack, the following he's built, his creative process, his recent "joke" design that went viral and what his ultimate goals are as a motorsports graphic designer.
Davey also discusses the inaugural events at Gateway and Portland, previews Sonoma and Papa Segal pays homage to a unique, lesser-known name in the world of NASCAR.
Sonoma Raceway EVP and General Manager Jill Gregory joins Davey Segal (7:30) to discuss her impressive career in motorsports that has led her back home to Northern California. She discusses her time in marketing with Texaco, Sprint and Bank of America before working for over a decade at NASCAR, where she left an indelible mark on the sport with her marketing and diversity and inclusion efforts.
She also played an integral part in helping NASCAR return to racing amid the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, and dives into some of the specifics that led to the sanctioning body returning to the track. Shortly thereafter, she wound up heading back West to assume her current role at Sonoma Raceway. She tells Davey why she opted to make the change and how things are going at the track. Plus, what to expect for their upcoming race weekend, how influential she feels as a prominent female in motorsports for multiple decades and more, including her potential second calling in the wine industry.
Davey also recaps an action-packed Coca-Cola 600 and ponders how/why the longest race in NASCAR history was so compelling, previews the Cup Series' first trip to Gateway, Xfinity Series' first trip to Portland and Papa Segal pays homage to a racer turned bobsled-builder.
Motor Racing Network lead play-by-play anchor and Berlin Raceway general manager Jeff Striegle joins Davey Segal (5:05) to discuss his career in motorsports, spanning driving, ownership, broadcasting and track operation. He dives into how a trip to Berlin at an early age started the wheels in motion, why he wound up starting his driving career at 23-years-old and the reasons for him hanging up the helmet.
Once that door closed, others opened in the form of broadcasting. Before MRN came calling, Striegle implemented a a MRN-style radio broadcast at Berlin, which gave him experience and exposure to eventually land a gig with them. He recalls his memorable audition at Daytona, his first broadcast and errors he made, the nerves that he had on the mic with legends and the art form that is picking up and handing off from one announcer to another on a live race broadcast.
Striegle explains why he decided to take the GM job at Berlin, why he frankly doesn't think he should be in the job as currently constructed, why his charitable initiatives with RacingAwareness has been the most rewarding thing in his career and how he balances being on the road so much while running a race track and having a family. Plus, the two discuss their Michigan State Spartans and why it's better to root for the green and white rather than that other team in the state.
Davey discusses the All-Star Race at Texas and chaotic ending that ensued, briefly previews the Coca-Cola 600 and Papa Segal pays homage to the "Convertible King."
Camping World Truck Series rookie Dean Thompson joins Davey Segal (7:15) to discuss how his first season in NASCAR's National Series is going, how the opportunity with Niece Motorsports came about in the first place and why Carson Hocevar was a major help throughout the process.
Thompson dives into his start in racing as a kid before choosing to play hockey over motorsports. He explains why he made that choice and his years as a goalie before eventually coming back to motorsports thanks to Cole Custer inviting him to Auto Club Speedway for a race weekend. After tearing up the local racing scene in California winning multiple track championships at Irwindale Speedway, Thompson went ARCA racing. The next logical step? The Camping World Truck Series.
Thompson also gets real about the importance of enjoying racing and not making it purely a job, how he handles those thinking he got to where he is purely based off family money, how he felt racing in his first ever Truck race and more, including forgetting his hard card, his passion for fishing (but getting out-fished by his girlfriend), losing his sunglasses on the water and his goals for the remainder of the 2022 season.
Davey discusses Kurt Busch's Kansas Speedway triumph and the career arc of the future Hall of Famer, explains why the All-Star Race isn't doing it for him anymore and Papa Segal pays homage to some guy who made the No. 48 iconic.
Brad Gillie of PRN and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio joins Davey Segal this week (5:40) to discuss how he got started in the broadcasting industry and his early passion for racing. He describes the racing scene in Texas and why despite a lack of asphalt short tracks, the vibrancy of motorsports was on display early and often.
Working at Texas Motor Speedway shortly after its grand opening, Gillie worked as the PA announcer, ran the dirt track, fire and EMS teams, among other roles. He dives into his roles and responsibilities at TMS, working for and with Eddie Gossage and when broadcasting on a more regular basis came calling in the form of PRN and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio.
He explains what his role as Program and Affiliate manager at PRN entails, how preparation for race broadcasts versus talk radio differ, recalls stories from years gone by, discusses working with legendary crew chiefs Jeff Hammond and Todd Gordon, his passion for motorcycles and more.
Davey analyzes Joey Logano's move on William Byron for the win at Darlington, Formula 1's inaugural Miami Grand Prix and previews Kansas this weekend. Plus, Papa Segal pays homage to a pioneer when it comes to two-way radio communication in NASCAR.
Spire Motorsports crew chief Ryan Sparks joins Davey Segal (6:50) for a wide-ranging conversation. He details his beginning in racing, why he chose to go down the engineering path and how he wound up at Richard Childress Racing straight out of college, where he stayed for 13 years.
Sparks wasn't intimidated joining a championship organization, and honed his craft as a data acquisition engineer. He explains what his role and responsibility was, winning the Daytona 500 and Coca-Cola 600, growing with Austin Dillon through the ranks and how he eventually wound up at Go FAS Racing, in part thanks to a phone call Childress personally made recommending Sparks for the job.
Going from a small fish in a big pond to a big fish in a small pond, Sparks had to adjust. He did so again, following Corey LaJoie to Spire Motorsports prior to the start of the 2021 season. He explains what his philosophy of building Spire "brick by brick" means, gives his thoughts on the four-week suspensions to crew chiefs for loose wheels and more. Plus, how often he gets his hair cut and why he may be the only Cup Series crew chief who lives with his parents.
Davey recaps the weekend of action at Dover, shares why the energy at his home track was better than recent years, previews Darlington and Papa Segal continues to pay homage to the Petty name.
Championship crew chief Rich Lushes joins Davey Segal (7:10) to discuss his storied career in motorsports that culminated in NASCAR's ultimate prize last season with Ben Rhodes and ThorSport Racing. He chats about his early days at the track and father's ownership of a local Ohio short track, why and when he realized driving wasn't the path for him, the culture of racing in Ohio where ThorSport is based and why the team likes avoiding "the swamp" in North Carolina.
Lushes has helped multiple young drivers blossom into short track and NASCAR stars, including the likes of Landon Cassill and Erik Jones. He recalls stories of the then teenagers honing their craft in the shop and on track before moving onto bigger and better things in NASCAR.
While successful, including an ARCA championship with Frank Kimmel in 2013, Lushes had never been a crew chief at the NASCAR level until 2018. He got his chance with Myatt Snider, but was demoted the following year. He gets real about his feelings in the two years that followed and why not just getting the chance again, but winning the opening two races with Ben Rhodes in 2021 put some pep back in his step en route to winning the Camping World Truck Series championship.
Plus, why he thrives at ThorSport in Ohio rather than with a bigger team in North Carolina, his "shoey" at Phoenix following the No. 99 team's championship, when he realized his driver couldn't handle his alcohol, why their recent victory on Bristol Dirt has was the biggest of his career and reflecting on the road to get to the top of the mountain.
Papa Segal pays homage to a fourth-generation driver gone too soon, Davey discusses Ross Chastain's Talladega victory and briefly previews the Monster Mile.
Bringing up the rear for over a decade, Brock Beard (A.K.A. Lastcar) joins Davey Segal this week (5:45) to discuss the work he does and how the concept of covering the back half of the NASCAR garage began in the first place. He explains the origins of his passion for racing and spotlighting those often overlooked, how he approaches covering drivers running in the rear, the reaction from fans and industry members to his coverage and more.
Beard also details giving out his LASTCAR Awards each year, if he gets nervous presenting it to drivers and some instances of when people in the garage didn't take too kindly to his work. He explains how he presents his content to someone who is unfamiliar with the purpose behind it, the effort to avoid the satirical label, his loyal following, passion for motorsports history, deep dives on YouTube and recent project authoring the biography of the late J.D. McDuffie, including the undertaking that helped that project come to life.
Papa Segal pays homage to another Petty and the number 44, while Davey discusses the second edition of the Bristol Dirt race, Chase Briscoe's move on Tyler Reddick at the finish and why things went much better this go around.
NASCAR weatherman extraordinaire Brian Neudorff (known as @NASCAR_WXMAN on Twitter) joins Davey this week (10:25) to explain how he started providing unofficial forecasts for races on social media and how he got started in the field of meteorology in general. He discusses his passion for racing growing up in the midwest, how he provides information in an easy-to-digest form for the race fan, dealing with vitriolic (and unjustified) feedback, knowing he won't get the forecast right every single time and why he hasn't been as active with NASCAR forecasts but is changing that. Plus, is Darrell Waltrip's infamous vortex theory real?
Davey discusses the uncharacteristic racing at Martinsville this past weekend and why it was different, Ty Gibbs vs. Sam Mayer post-race and previews Bristol Dirt. Plus, Papa Segal pays homage to Richard Petty and Davey shares a story of a memorable interaction with his birthday buddy: Richard Petty.
Davey Segal welcomes on pit reporter Mike Massaro (9:10) to discuss his extensive career in motorsports broadcasting. Starting in the Northeast at Stafford Speedway, Massaro outlines why he gravitated towards the microphone rather than a steering wheel, tells some hilarious stories from the track involving legends Mike Joy and Jack Arute and how that sent him on a path to work in racing.
He also details his first time meeting Dale Earnhardt while auditioning for MRN Radio, his time at Inside NASCAR on TNN, how Allen Bestwick helped him land that job along the way, landing at ESPN to help spearhead their NASCAR coverage and the unthinkable first assignment he was put on: the 2001 Daytona 500.
Massaro explains why coverage at the event was a logistical nightmare, how they navigated it, the delicate nature covering an event like that race takes, lessons learned that year and how they were applied in 2014 while covering the Tony Stewart/Kevin Ward Jr. incident.
After leaving ESPN due to the NASCAR television rights change, Massaro landed at NBC Sports for a short period of time. He explains why he left that job for the betterment of his own mental health, but why he wishes he didn't all these years later. He also discusses the here and now: being back on pit road for MAVTV covering the ARCA Menards Series with many familiar faces, how that opportunity came up and how good it felt to put the headset back on. Plus, what is there still left for him to accomplish in broadcasting?
Davey briefly touches on Denny Hamlin's Richmond Raceway victory, provides an update on his time dealing with COVID-19 and Papa Segal pays homage to "The King Maker."
Spotter and racer extraordinaire Derek Kneeland joins Davey Segal (5:25) to discuss his career in motorsports atop the spotters stand and behind the wheel. He details his early racing career in the Northeast, why he wound up hanging up the helmet before his parents asked him to and how he stumbled into spotting to remain in racing.
Kneeland explains how he got his start on the roof, how he balances working in multiple series with multiple drivers, how he tailors spotting to his drivers and whether he does his job differently, the feeling of winning races and championships in NASCAR and more.
Plus, how he got his nickname "daddy" from Juan Pablo Montoya, how spotting has evolved over the years, not living "locally" in the Charlotte area, early days in Cup with Kyle Larson, ice fishing with Tyler Reddick, his current late model racing, whether staying behind the wheel helps him as a spotter.
Davey also touches briefly on Atlanta and COTA, the change in how racing and going for wins are approached nowadays and Papa Segal pays homage to a NASCAR Hall of Famer.
Monica Palumbo's enthusiasm, energy and positivity radiates in this wide-ranging conversation with Davey Segal(4:45), where she details her insanely busy schedule, how she balances it all and her time in motorsports as the original Miss Sprint Cup.
Palumbo's career started out in acting, and she explains why she went down that road and how she wound up working with A1 celebrities like Gwyneth Paltrow and Jack Black. A former Miss North Carolina pageant winner (and Miss Congeniality, to nobody's surprise), Palumbo also worked with Sandra Bullock to help promote a movie that loosely mirrored her life. As if that wasn't enough, she also co-hosted with hit show "Live with Regis and Kelly" the legendary Regis Philbin and details how that opportunity came about.
Most know Palumbo from her work as the OG Miss Sprint Cup in the mid/late 2000s. She recalls why that position was created, how she was chosen for it, how she and Sprint went about being the liaison between drivers and fans, pressure with representing the top brand in the sport accurately, her most memorable times in Victory Lane over the years and. She also explains relationships she's cultivated over two decades remain crucial in her role now as an in-race host on the jumbotrons at the track, managing multiple voices in her head and how hosting on the big screen during races differs from her role as Miss Sprint Cup.
Plus, countless more stories from the Sprint days, how her time as MSC ended, her work with FOX Sports/SPEED channel, being at the forefront of the social media era and learning that on the fly, how starting a family has changed her life, her pizza/pug farm obsessions and more.
Davey also touches on Chase Briscoe's first career Cup Series victory at Phoenix Raceway, previews the newly reconfigured Atlanta Motor Speedway and Papa Segal pays homage to The Silver Bullet.
Niece Motorsports' Kris Wright joins Davey Segal (6:05) to discuss his start in motorsports, why he was encouraged to take up golf as a profession instead of racing and how his career behind the wheel wound up progressing.
From sports cars to open wheel and now NASCAR, Wright details the steps and decisions along the way, including why he wanted to go down the open wheel path, coming oh-so-close to winning the Rolex 24 at Daytona, racing overseas in Europe and how his lack of success impacted him personally and professionally and how it wound up leading him to stock cars and NASCAR only three years ago. Competing in stock cars for the first time in 2020, Wright explains how and why that opportunity came about, going "from Silverstone to Hickory" and the dichotomy that comes with that change, his relationship with fellow Pittsburgh native Chip Ganassi and Hall of Famer Ron Hornaday Jr., how he wound up at Niece Motorsports for this season, what his short and long term goals are and more.
Davey also discusses Alex Bowman's Las Vegas victory, why Kyle Busch's comments were misguided and Papa Segal pays homage to "The Rocketman."
Davey Segal welcomes on Pete Pistone (5:55), co-host of The Morning Drive on SiriusXM NASCAR Radio, for an extended conversation about his background in the sport, how he wound up in his current role, some intricacies of the show and more.
Pistone details his beginnings in motorsports with his uncle "Tiger" Tom. From riding inside his race car down the highway while eating popsicles, Pistone's passion for racing was evident. After attending Northern Illinois University, he started calling local races at Rockford Speedway as the PA announcer, where he also wore various other hats, where the next phase of his career took shape.
Chicago born and bred, Pistone spent time at WGN covering multiple stick and ball sports (while also focusing on racing). He recalls the phone lines lighting up when he spoke about racing on the radio for the first time, writing for the Chicago Sun Times and being an early adopter to the digital media age and starting an online motorsports blog.
Pistone explains how he got the job alongside Mike Bagley as co-host of The Morning Drive on SiriusXM NASCAR Radio, why the deal almost didn't happen, his chemistry with Bagley and why opposites seem to attract, why he feels a morning radio show has a different vibe than any other show, how he approaches conversations on air that he knows are difficult to have, his daily routine (with an early wake-up call) and what he and Mike's goal of the show every morning is.
Davey and Pete also discuss some fun memories over the last 14 years, including his favorite interview, bucket list conversation, most memorable listener phone call, live shows at Waffle House, his Portillo's order and more, including what he still wants to accomplish in his career with his newly announced venture PSP Communications.
Davey briefly recaps the great racing at Auto Club Speedway, previews Las Vegas and Papa Segal pays homage to the No. 38 with one of his favorite drivers.
Graphic designer extraordinaire Harris Lue joins Davey (6:00) to discuss his background in motorsports, passion for cars and Mustangs, working for NASCAR and now Stewart-Haas Racing, the influence of the late Sam Bass on his career and more.
Lue details how he became interested in graphic design, attending East Carolina University to further his interest, his day-to-day roles and responsibilities and how it's more than just making cool looking graphics. Logistical hurdles are aplenty in his role, and Lue goes behind the scenes to explain how something simple like a hero card to something complex like a paint scheme takes a monumental effort from all involved.
It's impossible to overstate how the late Sam Bass impacted Lue. He explains why he was drawn to Bass' work, his first interactions with the artist, how he grew into a friend and mentor and how his legacy lives on after his passing. Plus, if he's ever had to pinch himself while working with some big name drivers and clients, his passion for Mustangs, if he has a favorite project he's ever worked on, having a significant other that "gets it" in the same industry and what else he wants to accomplish in his motorsports design career.
Davey also recaps the 64th running of the Daytona 500, gives his takeaways from being on site for the event and briefly previews NASCAR's return to Auto Club Speedway this weekend. As always, Papa Segal gives an ode to the No. 37 in this week's Wayback Segment.
NASCAR Track Communications veteran Matt Humphrey joins Davey (6:25) this week to discuss his career in motorsports and working for the sanctioning body for the last decade plus. Humphrey played an intricate role behind the scenes in the marketing and planning of the Busch Light Clash at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum and explains how the one-of-a-kind event went off without a hitch. He also outlines what his day-to-day entails from a track communications perspective.
Humphrey recalls how the trajectory of his life changed at a young age, as he chose to drop out of college in his first year (where he was on a music scholarship) when he started a family. Forced to make a living to provide as a teenager, he picked up a job at the local sewage plant that he kept until he got sick of it...and from it. He explains how a trip to the hospital made him decide to pursue journalism full bore, which led him all over the country and eventually to Orlando, where he forged a relationship with a young, up-and-coming driver by the name of Jimmie Johnson.
Plus, how he's learned to be adaptable to the ever-changing media landscape, the story of how a webcam helped him land a job at NASCAR, his transition from journalism to PR, meeting his now wife at Daytona, moving out West in his new role, his passion for traveling and what Humphrey's long-term career goal is in the sport.
On site at The World Center of Racing, Davey also gives a preview preview of the Daytona 500 this weekend, chats about his experience in Los Angeles at The Clash and Papa Segal pays homage to a racers racer.
The incomparable Danielle Trotta joins Davey (8:30) for a wide-ranging discussion on her esteemed career in media and motorsports. The current SiriusXM NASCAR Radio host dives into why media and journalism sparked her interest as a young girl, what made her want to get involved in sports and obtaining internships and gaining experience at a younger age than usual.
She attended four (!) different colleges before getting her degree and starting her career in the business. But her on-air journey didn't come easy. She explains the importance of relationships, fostering them and building rapport while working behind the scenes before getting her first shot on camera in Charlotte. That was before the NASCAR world came calling in the form of SPEED Channel.
She explains why she made the move to racing without seeking it out and the insanely steep learning curve that followed, the influence she received from the late Steve Byrnes, how her relationship then with Larry McReynolds evolved and her eventual departure from SPEED to NBC Sports Boston.
Plus, her current role at SiriusXM NASCAR Radio, what her typical day looks like, why she and Larry Mac get along so well, how hosting a show on radio vs television differs, the hilarious story of how Larry (A.K.A. Dr. Love) set she and her now husband Robby Benton up, her time on the big screen, love for reality TV, whether there's anything else she'd like to accomplish professionally, our poorly aged takes about Tom Brady and one of the funniest moments in Victory Lane history involving a snoring dog.
After a lengthy and unplanned offseason/holiday break, Davey is back to get up to speed on all the happenings in the wide world of NASCAR. He discusses what he's been up to, some news and notes over the last month or so and Papa Segal gives an ode to a NASCAR Hall of Famer before Austin Wayne Self stops by for an all-encompassing conversation (8:50).
A longtime Truck Series competitor, Self discusses his time in the series and what his growth has looked like over the years. Plus, he details how he got into racing in the first place, growing up in Texas before moving to Indianapolis, winning his first ARCA race and going through an obscene number of crew chiefs in a single season.
Self provides his perspective on his suspension from NASCAR due to substance abuse and rapid reinstatement as well as his other off-track run in with the law. He also dishes on the John Hunter Nemechek incident at Martinsville, competing in the Denny Hamlin Short Track Showdown and Battle at the Beach and more.
Plus, why did Self need to decide to either race of go to juvy as a teenager? What happens if you mess with Texas? And what are his goals/aspirations in NASCAR? All that and more to kick off 2022.
And poof the 2021 NASCAR season has come to a close. Davey is back from Phoenix and recaps the Championship 4 weekend festivities that saw Kyle Larson earn his 10th victory of the season and first career Cup Series title. He speaks on why second chances are a good thing, the Cliff Daniels/Larson marriage that may be lethal for years to come, the other drivers coming up short and more.
Plus, Daniel Hemric and Ben Rhodes earned championships of their own in the Xfinity and Truck Series, respectively. Davey breaks down Hemric's pursuit of that elusive victory, the race-winning move on Austin Cindric and his backflip celebration. Rhodes' press conference may have been more memorable than his race, thanks to his new "Bud" and champagne. But both drivers, despite not being dominators over the course of the season, were deserving champions, as Davey explains.
Papa Segal pays homage to a legend who may have the most nicknames in NASCAR history, Davey hits on Lug Nuts including silly season news, crew chief suspensions, the Busch Light Clash format and more.
It's Championship 4 week, which means Julie Giese is one busy woman. Despite that, she still found some time to chat with Davey (14:55) about Phoenix Raceway hosting their first "real" championship weekend. Hear why she calls it "nervous energy," how the city of Phoenix has embraced the race track/event and how preparations for the title race weekend differ from their spring date.
Giese didn't have being a track president on her radar five years ago, moreover growing up a race fan on a dairy farm. After deciding that the agricultural route wasn't for her in college, she opted to pursue her passion of racing. But not before getting rejected...a lot. She still has those rejection letters and explains why she keeps them, how she got her first job in the sport and worked her way up from the bottom.
From Watkins Glen to Daytona to ISC and now Phoenix, Giese has done it all, gotten her hands dirty and learned along the way. She describes what life was like starting in the sport at a tumultuous time, heading up multiple multi-million track renovation projects, how Phoenix's track president opportunity came about, being a role model to other females in her position, her unique relationship with Derek Kraus' family and more, including the importance of West Coast racing to the fabric of motorsports and that one time she and Davey were stuck in a hauler during a Tucson Speedway rain delay.
Davey recaps a wild weekend at Martinsville, previews the Championship 4 for all three national series and Papa Segal pays homage to an eclectic racer from the Northeast.
Ryan Ellis joins Davey (14:20) for an episode full of laughs, memories, reflection and even some trivia. A new father, Ellis details what life has been like with minimal sleep while working his 9-5 job AND racing. Also a third-generation driver, Ellis explains how his late grandfather and father started racing, how Ryan got involved and his fond memories of the early days of go-karting.
After getting selected to appear on a Discovery Channel show in the Jetta-TDI Cup Series, Ellis seemed to be on the ride, but his confidence was fluctuating. He explains why, and details his Grand-Am experiences and how Jimmy Means gave him a start in NASCAR, something he admittedly wasn't seeking out. From Obaika Racing to BK Racing and everywhere in between, Ellis has been through the ringer. He tells the good, bad and ugly stories of his time working for countless car owners and why he made it a point to stay out of the way in his first ever Cup start, which also happened to be his hero Jeff Gordon's penultimate one.
The journey to where he is now has made Ellis appreciate the sport more, and he explains why. Plus, why being an Asian-American never ended up helping him in the NASCAR Diversity program, his thoughts on CBD sponsorships, his love of hockey, why he decided to get a college degree and how it's helped him in the real world and in racing, how his Kansas Cup start with Rick Ware Racing came about, the awesome partnerships he has on the BJ McLeod Motorsports Xfinity car this weekend at Martinsville and more.
Davey also beings his girlfriend Robin, noted Washington Capitals super fan, on to go head-to-head with Ellis answering Caps trivia questions. Who won and is the bigger fan? You'll have to find out.
Davey also touches on Kyle Larson's ninth victory of the season and third in a row, Ty Gibbs' memorable day, previews the penultimate race of the season at Martinsville and Papa Segal pays homage to "The Mayor" Jeff Burton.
You may have been introduced to Ernie Francis Jr. this past summer thanks to SRX, but there's much more to his story. The seven-time Trans-Am champion joins Davey this week (13:30) to discuss how he got into racing, his father's origins in the sport, sanctioning bodies bending the rules to let him race, the dynamic working for his dad and why he likes to tinker and work on cars.
He gives a primer on what the Trans-Am series is about and it's importance, why it's lost popularity over the years and winning his seven titles (in a row!) at such a young age. He also dives into his time running SRX this summer, how he got the invite from Ray Evernham, influence from Willy T. Ribbs, his victory over Scott Speed at Lucas Oil Raceway and how it feels to see fans wear his merchandise.
Plus, why he stayed with Tony Stewart in his motorhome during the Knoxville Nationals, how it felt rubbing elbows with racing legends, how he adjusted to running short tracks with a road course background, his time in NASCAR with Rev Racing and why he thinks things didn't work out, whether or not he'd still like to run in stock cars or IndyCar and what his 2022 racing prospects may look like.
Davey also briefly recaps Kyle Larson's Texas win, weighs in on the playoff vs non-playoff driver debate, previews Kansas and Papa Segal gives an ode to the man named Mikey.
Newly crowned ARCA Menards Series East champion Sammy Smith joins Davey (9:40) to discuss what life is like for a teenager who also happens to be a NASCAR champion. He also dives into how he got his start in racing, his experience in legends cars (and heartbreak) before graduating to super late models and stock cars, driving for an extensive list of big names in motorsports and the pressure of driving for said big names (i.e. Kyle Busch).
He also discusses winning the pro late model championship at only 14-years-old at New Smyrna Speedway, how his ARCA East campaign with Joe Gibbs Racing came about, why his goal was to win the championship from day one despite not knowing if they’d run the full season and when he knew he was going to be the dominator of the season. Smith’s relationship with Ty Gibbs is a close one, and he details how the two met, formed a friendship, whether or not he races him any differently and why the public perception of the 18-year-old is a skewed one. Plus, his living situation in Iowa and how often he travels to North Carolina, the racing scene growing up, impact the Annett family has had on him in racing, his plans for the 2022 season and more.
Davey also provides an update on his West Coast road trip and Papa Segal gives listeners a peek behind the curtain to Davey’s past life, as he pays homage to the driver who piloted the No. 29 and sparked his son’s obsession with NASCAR.
Santino Ferrucci joins Davey this week (24:15) to discuss his career in motorsports that saw him move to Europe at an early age and become a child prodigy dubbed "The Great Santino." He details what the racing culture was like in Europe for an American, why he wasn't fond of it as he grew older and some of the huge names he competed with and against while working his way up the ranks.
On track to make it to Formula 1, Ferrucci was involved in controversy that involved he and his teammate colliding and skipping a stewards meeting, which ultimately led to his release from the team and move back stateside. Ferrucci dives into the details of what really happened, why it was a blessing in disguise that he was able to come back home and how it led him to his current escapades in IndyCar and NASCAR.
It wasn't all bad in Europe, though. As a test driver for Haas F1 Team, Ferrucci recalls the fond memories he has driving a Formula 1 car and why he had to zip tie his helmet to his HANS device while racing it. Plus, why he decided to try his hand in NASCAR, whether or not he sees himself in stock cars for the long haul, how he's adjusted to racing bigger cars and learning the etiquette, why he's rooming with his team owner Sam Hunt in Charlotte, where he's focusing his efforts for the 2022 season and much more.
Davey recaps the historic weekend at Talladega Superspeedway, that saw not only Bubba Wallace earn the first win for a Black driver since 1963 in the Cup Series, but also three first-time winners at the same track in the same weekend for the first time ever. He outlines why the rain-shortened victory was still legit for Wallace and 23XI Racing, briefly previews the Round of 12 cutoff at the Charlotte ROVAL and Papa Segal gives an ode to one of his favorite all-time drivers.
Chris Lambert is back with Davey for part two of their conversation (14:10) fresh off his Las Vegas victory, and they begin by discussing the day that changed his life forever. He describes what he remembers about the day he lost his then wife Hailey and 15-month-old son Austin, how he coped with the unimaginable losses, the moment he realized he needed to pick up the pieces and start over and why he decides to share his story in public.
The two also discuss his Southern 500 victories, and why they mean more to him than his three Daytona 500's, his trophy collection over the years (and whether the team gets trophies the drivers do), meeting Michael Jordan at a UNC basketball camp (as a now Duke fan) and while working with Denny Hamlin, how his Red Sox and baseball fandom came about and why he feels the chances of the No. 11 team securing that elusive championship are as good as ever in 2021.
Davey touches on the Las Vegas tripleheader weekend, takes a peek at the 2022 Xfinity and Truck Series schedules and Papa Segal gives an ode to the legendary Banjo Matthews.
He’s a three-time Daytona 500 champion, veteran of the sport for over two decades and now the first spotter to appear on Victory Lane. Chris Lambert joins Davey for part one (20:30) of their fascinating and all-encompassing conversation. He details how he got into spotting despite not seeking it out, why he didn’t pursue driving, growing up in Kannapolis and becoming involved in racing. He also explains the role spotters play besides just talking over the radio, why he wears four (!) radios during a race (and why he used to wear FIVE), how the job has evolved over the last two decades and his weekly interactions with NASCAR officials over the years.
Spending more time with each other than their families, the spotters stand is a close fraternity, as Lambert explains. He’s dealt with some strange happenings at track, involving fires, potholes and even bikini tops coming off (yes, really). Hear why Lambert called his time working at Red Bull Racing “by far the best working environment (he’d) ever been in,” how he spotted two cars simultaneously during the tandem drafting era, all the drivers he’s worked with over the years and why he likes superspeedway racing more now than in previous eras.
Plus, how his job differs from driver to driver, the first time he and Denny Hamlin worked together and why it didn’t immediately click, why he was hesitant to spot for Hamlin in the first place but eventually agreed, his experience spotting the 24 Hours of Daytona and why he turned down a chance at spotting the Indianapolis 500 this year, a race that remains atop his spotting bucket list. Come back next week for part two of their chat, where Lambert opens up in one of the more serious episodes ever on Victory Lane.
Davey recaps the insane weekend of racing from Bristol, whether Kevin Harvick or Chase Elliott is in the right or wrong, why whether or not you take your helmet off doesn’t matter, his plea to let the drivers settle beef alone and the four drivers eliminated. In addition to a brief preview of Las Vegas, Papa Segal also pays homage to another NASCAR legend per usual.
Davey welcomes on NBC Charlotte sports reporter Ashley Stroehlein (15:35) to discuss her career in the industry and the roller coaster road she'd taken to get to this point. From working as a math teacher and basketball coach to eventually following her dream and landing a full-time job sports reporting, "Stro" describes how specific opportunities came about, why she chickened out of attending broadcasting school for the first time and how she balances everything that life throws her.
No day is the same as a sports reporter in the 704, which makes for a fun yet stressful job. Stroehlein explains why "finding beauty in the struggle" is cliché yet true and why being one-dimensional in the field won't cut it nowadays. Plus, how she prepares for her various different roles, her work at Bristol Motor Speedway, relationships with Amy Earnhardt and Amanda Carter and more. Also, how does every photo she posts look like a professional shot it? We get the answer.
Davey recaps Richmond's playoff race won by Martin Truex Jr. and ponders why the track has lacked overall action as of late. He also looks ahead to the Round of 16 cutoff at Bristol, dissects the 2022 Cup Series schedule that was released this week and Papa Segal pays homage to a driver who never was able to showcase his full talents behind the wheel.
Amy Long has had quote the journey, both in and out of motorsports, to get to where she is now. She joins Davey this week (17:00) to explain how the the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles and Superman got her interested in journalism, along with her inherent curiosity, attending Florida State University, working as a one woman band MMJ out of college and how she learned the internet as it became a thing in society.
Traveling with the IMSA Patron team and working on the Miss Coors Light activation team got her feet wet in motorsports. Being put in a box by some, Long shares her thoughts on being a female in motorsports, and why she enjoys her role now with NASCAR Fantasy and Trackside Live way more. Long details how her relationship with current World of Outlaws sprint car racer (and former NASCAR driver) Kasey Kahne came to be, including seeing racing from his perspective, having the general public discover how good he really is (and has been), traveling on the road with him and what she can cook up inside the motorhome.
Plus, her time as a Disney Princess (yes, really!), why it was the most rewarding job of her career on so many levels, the impact she had on others in the role and how transforming into a character takes more effort than you think. As if that wasn't enough, she was a participant on "The Bachelor" and details the behind-the-scenes on how she got asked to be on the show.
Papa Segal gives an ode to one of the best to ever do it, Davey recaps the Southern 500 to open the playoffs, one that was "Holy Bajeezus" worthy and shares an update on his weekly TikTok recap videos.
It's been a long time coming, but Rajah Caruth finally joins Davey this week (12:10) for an all-encompassing conversation. The duo touch on his upbringing in Washington DC, getting hooked on NASCAR, sim racing, mentorship from Bubba Wallace, his rapid progression up the ranks, the announcement of him moving to the Xfinity Series part-time in 2022 with Alpha Prime Racing and more.
Caruth explains how his relationship with Tommy Joe Martins began and progressed to this point, why moving up to Xfinity next season is the right choice, all the while with his focus remaining on ARCA with Rev Racing, and how much he's learned every step along the way. A surprise road trip to Richmond in 2014 changed his life forever, and he recalls the moment he knew being a race car driver was what he wanted to do, including the subsequent steps he took to try and accomplish his goal.
Dealing with everything life has thrown Caruth's way, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, hasn't been easy, though. He gets real about struggles on and off track over the last couple years, dealing with racism as one of a few African-American drivers in NASCAR, moving to North Carolina from DC and starting college full-time while racing, his mentorship from Bubba Wallace, how their relationship progressed and more.
Plus, the two chat about his first late model victory, what the DMV actually is, whether or not he can actually dunk, if he could've had a career as an Olympic caliber runner, some unique opportunities he's gotten over the year, including acting for BET, a Louis Vuitton photoshoot, being honored at a Wizards game and reflecting on where he is in his racing career.
Davey recaps the regular season finale from Daytona and previews the 10-race stretch, beginning this weekend at Darlington, while Papa Segal (and Mama Segal!) give an ode to the man called "Mongo."
The IMSA mechanic, Twitter professional, biscuit connoisseur and all-around cool guy Bozi Tatarevic joins Davey Segal this week (15:25) to discuss his career in racing and immigrating to the United States from Serbia. He details the motorsports culture (or lack thereof) in Serbia growing up and how he became involved once moving to the U.S.
Working with Vasser Sullivan in IMSA, Bozi details his day-to-day duties, experience working the Rolex 24 at Daytona (including lots of napping and snacking) how he got involved working in the IMSA garage and why he thinks IMSA has seen a rise in popularity recently. He also explains how and why Racing Spaces has become such a success on Twitter, his love of social media, why people seem to resonate with his in-depth coverage on a "quick hits" platform and answers "the question" about Criss Angel. He's also a writer, and explains what led him to begin creating content for numerous publications and whether or not the NextGen car is worth the hype.
Bozi is also the biggest biscuit fan you'll meet. He details what makes a good biscuit, why he loves pie and other baked goods, his approach to dating apps, NASCAR softball league, being thought of as a robot by some (and taking advantage of it with merch) and more.
Davey also recaps Ryan Blaney's victory at Michigan and provides evidence as to why Daytona is a good venue for the regular season finale and Papa Segal pays homage to a NASCAR Hall of Famer.
A trailblazer in his own right, Armani Williams, the first openly autistic NASCAR driver, joins Davey this week (14:35) ahead of his Camping World Truck Series debut at Worldwide Technology Raceway at Gateway. Williams dishes on why time time is right to make his debut, understanding his equipment and trying to stay out of the way of playoff contenders, what drew him to racing in general, how a trip to play mini golf sparked his interest in driving and the process that followed getting him behind the wheel.
While racing with autism has its challenges, there are also some benefits that help Williams behind the wheel. Williams discusses them, why using racing as a platform to get out the message about autism is important to him and his family, the story behind his “tell me I can’t so I can show you I can” mantra, his time in the Pinty’s Series with mentorship from DJ Kennington and being comfortable in the spotlight. Plus why he’s studying mechanical engineering at Oakland University while pursuing a racing career, being one of a few African-Americans in NASCAR’s national series, whether or not he’s okay being viewed as the autistic race car driver and a funny story of when he forgot to celebrate one of his first victories.
Davey also recaps the wild Indianapolis Motor Speedway Road Course event won by AJ Allmendinger and curb calamity, previews Michigan and Papa Segal pays homage one of the best drivers of all-time.
You probably know Joe Graf Jr. as that guy who failed to qualify in a RCR Xfinity car, but Davey shines a light on the SS Green Light driver on and off track this week. The two chat (17:30) about how Graf got started in racing being from the Northeast and how he currently is balancing being a full-time college student at NYU with racing full-time in the NASCAR Xfinity Series. He also dives into why attending school is important to him, despite the logistical hurdles involved with managing it.
Graf discusses his first career ARCA win and one that he thinks he should have won, including racing with a broken foot and making some people mad along the way. As an intern with Richard Childress Racing, Graf got the opportunity to race in the Xfinity Series, but made headlines by failing to qualify. He's in good spirits about the weekend now, and explains why his mindset has switched to making light of the situation rather than avoiding it altogether.
Graf also dishes on his fight with Gray Gaulding earlier this year at Martinsville. Who won? What did he think of Gaulding's comments? And what made Graf mad about the whole ordeal more than anything? Plus, his relationship with Antonio Williams Jr. of the Buffalo Bills, how working with a sports psychiatrist has aided him, his obsession with sneakers, love for New Jersey pizza/bagels and more.
Davey also recaps the weekend of action from Watkins Glen and explains why the venue is one of the best in all of NASCAR. He also debates whether or not racing on the Indianapolis Road Course means as much as racing on the oval. Plus, Papa Segal gives an ode to Smoke.
For somebody who had no NASCAR aspirations growing up, Josh Bilicki has done pretty well for himself. He joins Davey this week (9:00) to discuss his career in racing and lack of stock car/short track experience, despite growing up literally right next to an iconic venue. He details why he didn’t pursue NASCAR from the start and chose sports cars instead, spending his own dime to go race, how spec miatas compare to Cup cars and how a Facebook message helped him secure a ride for his first NASCAR race.
Bilicki has some insane stories from his time with Victor Obaika, including his first time driving for the team at Road America, missing seat belts and window nets, unkept promises, checks that never showed up and how it all led to Roger Penske of all people buying him an ice cream cone (yes, really). He also explains why he treats Cup races like IMSA events running for Rick Ware Racing, his relationship with his teammates, reflecting on being a full-time Cup Series driver, his goals and aspirations for the future and more, including his success racing snowmobiles and an attempt at pronouncing “Antetokounmpo.”
It may not be a high school commitment announcement, but Brad Perez is on the podcast this week to share his exciting news: he’s going ARCA racing! The beloved NASCAR personality on social media details how his opportunity to run at Watkins Glen with Josh Williams Motorsports came about, why he decided to pursue the chance, his relationship with the team owner/driver, how social media posts aided in his efforts to secure the necessary sponsorship and what he did when he got the call that his deal was official.
He also explains what he does for Martins Motorsports and Rackley W.A.R. in the Xfinity and Truck Series, how a tire specialists role holds many different duties, why relationships are crucial to success during a race and more. Plus, he explains why racing is “the coolest addiction ever,” moving to Charlotte to pursue it, his time developing in spec miatas and how it translates to NASCAR, his multiple jobs throughout it all outside of racing and more, including his dance skills, softball league and why he seems to always shank Davey at the race track.
You've probably seen her post about her cat, Criss Angel, cars and racing, and this week Alanis King joins the podcast to talk about all that and more. Davey and King discuss her current role at Business Insider and time spent at Jalopnik, where she blogged anything and everything from pink splitters to NASCAR to Yu-Gi-Oh! (yes, really). She also dives into how she's handled the countless haters and threats thrown her way over the years, all while learning how to handle and blog on the internet while finishing college.
She also discusses why " the cat lady who writes about cars" could not be more accurate, how "Racing Spaces" began on Twitter and asking Denny Hamlin "the question," driving a Monster Truck, drag racing in her moms Hyundai, riding in a Ferrari with Sebastian Vettel and a MotoGP bike around COTA. Nobody is more obsessed with Criss Angel than Alanis, and she explains why/how the fandom began. After she reveals her ridiculous take on pizza (and it is RIDICULOUS), Davey accidentally makes her cry at the thought of Criss Angel in the Times Square Olive Garden.
If you couldn't already tell, things got a bit weird in this conversation. But King is busy finishing a book centered around Rich Energy, the infamous Formula 1 sponsor, and shares an excerpt from the book with Davey.
Aric Almirola upset the playoff grid with his win at New Hampshire, and NASCAR officiating didn't have the best day. Davey breaks down The Magic Mile and Papa Segal digs deep into his suitcase of courage in this weeks wayback segment.
Check your mail, because The Postman is here! Davey sits down with Steve Post (19:10) to dive into his career in motorsports, spanning over 30 years. From a young fan attending races on Pennsylvania short and dirt tracks to manning pit road for the Motor Racing Network, Post has done and seen it all, and continues to do so with radiant positivity.
He explains how he got into racing, his days working as an announcer locally, how he handled life when he moved to North Carolina and why he always had an eye on joining MRN. Before his time wearing the famed blue shirt, Post was a public relations representative for Kenny Wallace and Ricky Rudd in NASCAR, and shares countless stories of his time on the road/at the track with the two drivers. He also explains how he wound up getting hired by MRN, a job he’s held for almost 20 years, and what it was like to be a part of the sport in its booming years throughout the 2000s. Post also outlines his other jobs and passions, including sprint car racing, diecast cars, the Summer Shootout at Charlotte and more. Plus, what’s up with his wild and wacky hair? Simply better living, that’s what.
Davey touches on Kurt Busch’s surprise Atlanta victory and goes into a diatribe about the seeming lack of communication between the drivers, tracks and sanctioning body. What needs to be done to fix things? Papa Segal gives an ode to “The Biff” and a badass car the former Roush driver owns.
The NASCAR garage is full of characters, and Josh Williams is one of the biggest. The Xfinity Series mainstay joins Davey this week (9:00) to reminisce on his racing career, a path that isn't often replicated nowadays. From working on and building his own stuff and cutting his teeth in ARCA with his family team, Williams has scratched and clawed his way to success in motorsports at all levels throughout his career.
From his wins in legends and bandoleros, spending time with Chris Buescher while getting scolded by Ken Ragan, participating in "Humpy's Heroes" as a teenager, the four-wheeler accident that put him in the ICU for five days and what made him laugh when he finally woke up, Williams' stories seem to never stop. Plus, additional tales of his first ARCA win, what made pulling all nighters worth it, his time starting and parking in multiple series, crew chiefing in the Xfinity Series on the side while driving, his relationship with team owner Mario Gosselin and more. Why is he confident that he'll not only win an Xfinity race, but also win in the Cup Series one day? "J-Dubb" lets you know, and let's it all fly--just like his patented mullet.
Davey also recaps Chase Elliott's victory at Road America, gives his thoughts on Atlanta Motor Speedway's re-profiling project and Papa Segal gives an ode to an American and NASCAR hero.
We're keeping it ~spicy~ this week, as professional emcee and award-winning speaker Jose Castillo joins Davey this week (16:45) to chat about his career, how he got involved with NASCAR through Bristol Motor Speedway, transforming the big screen experience for fans, when he realized public speaking was the path for him and where the passion came from. He also discusses his eclectic background, why "keeping it spicy" is truly a personality trait of his, how he's pivoted to the virtual world during the pandemic, cultivating relationships with the drivers while having fun, the positivity he radiates and more. Plus, what's the spiciest interview Castillo has ever had over the years?
Davey also breaks down the double dose of action from Pocono Raceway, ponders why the racing was so compelling and looks ahead to Road America. In this week's wayback segment, Papa Segal gives an ode to one of the greatest racers of all-time.
Canada’s finest, Alex Labbe, joins Davey this week (17:00) to discuss racing north of the border and the culture that comes along with it. Labbe details his career path spanning go-karts, late models and more, before landing in the Pinty’s Series, where he raced against big names and some of his racing heroes. After winning the series championship in 2017, he and his sponsor Can-Am decided to go Xfinity Series racing, where they still compete today for DGM Racing and Mario Gosselin.
The two discuss the travel logistics Labbe goes through crossing the border to get to races, how popular motorsports are in Canada, the harsh penalty NASCAR laid down on Labbe and DGM at the Daytona Road course and why it was overturned, why he chose to get a college degree in the U.S. while racing full-time in Canada, his career aspirations and more.
Davey recaps another dominant performance from Kyle Larson at Nashville and gives his thoughts on the track’s first weekend hosting races in a decade. He also briefly previews Pocono and Papa Segal gives an ode to one of the most important figures in NASCAR history.
One of the best to ever grace the screen, legendary broadcaster Allen Bestwick joins Davey this week (25:00) to discuss his illustrious career and his new venture as the play-by-play voice of SRX. He answers how the opportunity to get back in the booth for the new series initially came about, how he thinks the initial weekend at Stafford went and how his preparation for SRX events differ from calling other forms of motorsports and sports in general.
Bestwick is used to local New England short tracks, given that he began calling races at Seekonk Speedway in Massachusetts at 16 years of age. He details his career path from that point forward, including stops at MRN working alongside Barney Hall and Ned Jarrett, NBC with Benny Parsons, ESPN with Rusty Wallace and a plethora of other legendary names on track and behind the microphone in between. He explains why no specific race that he’s called stands out to him, but reveals what does stick with him reflecting on his years traveling the circuit. Davey and Allen also discuss the importance of letting the broadcast breathe and why silence can speak volumes while calling an event. Bestwick also provides an update on what he’s been up to since ESPN exited NASCAR in the mid 2010s, including calling US Opens, college basketball and more. Plus, would he be open to a return to the broadcast booth on a regular basis calling NASCAR races?
Davey touches on another victory by Kyle Larson in the All-Star Race, including his thoughts on how the format played out. His girlfriend Robin makes a return appearance to give her thoughts on the race, Kyle Busch gets mad at Davey, a preview of NASCAR’s return to Nashville and Papa Segal gives a lengthy historical deep dive into his favorite driver of all time: Bobby Allison.
You've probably seen her on NASCAR's digital platforms, but Alex Weaver didn't grow up an avid follower of the sport. She joins Davey this week (8:20) to discuss her career path that began at Clemson University covering football and eventually led her to NASCAR. Despite being involved in sports from a young age, she almost pursued a career as a scientist before deciding otherwise. Working behind and in front of the camera at Clemson, she learned the tricks of the trade before trading in her purple and orange.
Originally hired to work in the partnership division of the company, Weaver learned the ins and outs of NASCAR before dabbling in on-camera content. As she improved, her time on screen rose. She describes the challenges being a female in female dominated sport present (including when a driver tried to mansplain something to her), how she's leaned on broadcasters like Kaitlyn Vincie, Shannon Spake and Jamie Little among others and what interviews have been her most memorable. Plus, being a cat mom, her Chick-Fil-A obsession, being an Instagram influencer and what her future career aspirations look like.
Davey touches on Kyle Larson's dominant performance at Sonoma for the second consecutive week, ponders what has happened to the All-Star Race and Papa Segal gives an ode to the No. 11.
Currently full-time in the ARCA Menards Series, Nick Sanchez joins Davey this week (12:05) as the two reminisce and discuss his career to date, which only started seven years ago. After some time go-karting at Homestead-Miami Speedway, Sanchez and his mom searched “how to become a NASCAR driver” on the internet, and the rest is history.
After being accepted into NASCAR's Drive for Diversity program, Sanchez began competing in legends and late models for Rev Racing, where he honed his craft in full-bodied stock cars for the first time. He explains why winning the Wendell Scott Trailblazer award was such a big deal to him, and recalls his first couple starts in the K&N Pro Series at South Boston in 2019. Now full-time in ARCA, Sanchez details why Rev upgraded their inventory ahead of the ambitious 20-race slate, how his skillset has improved, what it’s like racing against Ty Gibbs and more.
Plus, some stories of karting with Indy 500 champions and Formula 1 winners, his passions away from the track (notably why he now has a “plan B” in the real estate industry if racing doesn’t work out) and more, including the hilarious and ironic story of how Nick and Davey’s two families are connected dating back to school in Miami.
Davey also touches on Kyle Larson’s dominant Coca-Cola 600 win and Rick Hendrick’s record-breaking night at Charlotte, previews Sonoma and Papa Segal gives an ode to “The Ironman.”
Dawson Cram is the latest in a long line of racers, and he joins Davey on the podcast this week to dive into his season to date, career in racing and much more. Fresh off missing the show at COTA, Cram details what went wrong and why and touches on the uphill climb that small teams face in today’s landscape of NASCAR.
Marcus Lemonis has helped the Camping World Truck Series immensely this season, but Cram and his No. 41 team may have benefitted more than anybody, as the truck adorns Camping World, Good Sam and Overton’s almost every single week. Cram explains why Lemonis’ gratitude and financial assistance has helped him and his team immensely, and provides his thoughts on the Sheldon Creed Twitter exchange with Lemonis, looking at it from both perspectives.
As is par for the course, Cram began his racing career at the age of five in mini dwarf cars (he explains what those are) before moving from California to North Carolina to pursue his racing dream further. He recalls his memorable Truck debut that included white knuckles, snow postponements and hitting a pit crew member. They also discuss how his national series career grew from there, including his work with JD Motorsports alongside his driving duties. Plus, his family lineage in racing, who he leans on in the garage for advice and a little about who Dawson is away from the race track.
Davey provides his thoughts on the wet and wild race weekend at COTA, briefly previews the longest race of the year at Charlotte and Papa Segal gives an ode to the No. 09.
At only 18-years-old, Carson Hocevar has already torn up the short track scene and is making a name for himself in NASCAR. He joins Davey this week (12:50) to discuss his career behind the wheel, starting in Michigan at Berlin Raceway, and why NASCAR had to make a rule change to combat him winning as a 13-year-old. NASCAR champion Johnny Benson has mentored Hocevar over the years, and Carson explains how Johnny’s help has been instrumental to his growth in stock cars.
Hocevar details his journey to where he is now: full-time with Niece Motorsports, why he lost some confidence in his time running ARCA, how he regained it and why he’s just now hitting his stride with Niece in the Truck Series. Injuries haven’t stopped Hocevar in his young career, either, as he recalls breaking his wrist in a wreck but finishing the race one handed. Plus, how he powered through the end of a Truck race with heat exhaustion.
Despite not being known for dirt racing, the late Bryan Clauson had a profound impact on him. He explains why that is, how the information afforded to him in NASCAR is good to have, yet overwhelming at times and which races are left on his bucket list to win across the country.
Davey also recaps Hendrick Motorsports’ dominance at Dover and Alex Bowman’s second victory of the season, previews NASCAR’s inaugural weekend at COTA in Texas and more.
Life as a Truck Series driver/owner for a small, family-run, underfunded team isn't anything like the glitz and glamor of NASCAR racing, but for Cory Roper, it's been more than enough. The Texan joins Davey this week (15:45) to discuss why he decided to get into NASCAR racing, the chance encounters that led to his involvement ramping up, how his construction company factors into the equation and how Roper Racing Team's first event was a memorable (and snowy) one at Martinsville.
Roper explains how gaining experience has been a key as a driver, why not practicing is good for an owner but disadvantageous from the driver's perspective, what good runs do financially and morale wise for a small team, and what bad runs/wrecks do and more. Plus, he breaks down his third-place finish at Daytona this year, what bringing Chase Briscoe into the fold has meant to the team and reveals what his family thinks of him pursuing his passion on a grander scale.
Davey breaks down Martin Truex Jr.'s dominant win at Darlington and speaks on why performances like that should be appreciated rather than ridiculed. He also gives his thoughts on the 750 horsepower package, previews Dover and Papa Segal pays homage to Coo Coo Marlin.
Like many, he’s experienced the highest of highs and lowest of lows in racing. But Jeremy Clements story is about as unique as it gets. From almost losing a body part as a teenager inside the race car to scoring his Xfinity Series win at Road America, Clements has gone through the ringer in his career, and joins Davey this week (18:30) to discuss it all.
They discuss the horrific injury he suffered and the recovery that followed, including visiting Victory Lane in an ARCA race only three years later. His time in the Xfinity Series dates back to the early 2000s, allowing him to race at iconic venues such as Pikes Peak, IRP and in Montreal. Clements reflects on being in the series for over a decade and the road to where he is now.
He also relives his Road America victory in 2017 and reflects on why that weekend was so special for him and his team. The No. 51 team is off to an incredible start in 2021, sitting firmly inside the top 10 in points ahead of countless powerhouse organizations. Clements explains the reason for the uptick in performance and why the key is staying up there consistently. Plus, his iconic Darlington Throwback honoring Dale Jarrett, life as the husband of a full-time fashion blogger/social media influencer and whether or not JCR will go Cup racing in the future.
Davey recaps Kyle Busch’s win in the Buschy McBusch Race (yes, really) and gives his thoughts on the tire debacle and NextGen car being unveiled this week. He also previews Darlington Throwback weekend and Papa Segal provides an ode to a late legend.
Matt Mills joins Davey this week (15:20) ahead of his Cup Series debut at Kansas. He explains how the opportunity with BJ McLeod Motorsports came about after running Xfinity for the organization the past couple years and the approval process given the drama surrounding it the past couple weeks. Mills also describes why his results in NASCAR don’t tell the full story while driving for an underfunded team.
After starting racing motorcycles as a kid, Mills transitioned to stock cars at age 12, but skipped ARCA/K&N before making his national series debut, choosing to focus on late models instead. He details his debut at Bristol of all places, driving for multiple smaller teams and the struggles that come along with it, mentorship from team owner BJ McLeod, his passions away from the track (including a Star Wars obsession) and why starting the Cup race this weekend will mean his childhood dream has been achieved.
Davey also recaps Brad Keselowski’s sixth career win at Talladega, Joey Logano’s comments on the superspeedway rules package, Jeb Burton’s emotional Xfinity win and more.
Toni Breidinger has and continues to be a trailblazer in motorsports. Being the first female Arab-American in NASCAR and winningest female in USAC history, Breidinger doesn’t pay too much attention to her historic achievements, but rather is focused on the here and now of making it in NASCAR. She joins Davey this week (14:45) to discuss her upbringing in California and getting started go-karting with her twin sister and father. She also recalls how breaking her arm in a crash at a young age didn’t deter her from pursuing her passion.
Breidinger details what being the first female Arab-American driver means to her personally, and why she was surprised that nobody came before her. She also explains how being a woman in racing doesn’t occupy her mind as much as it does others as well as her catchphrase: “the car doesn’t know gender.”
Hear the coincidental story of how she got the opportunity with Young’s Motorsports, and why she didn’t expect to be moving up the ranks this quickly. She dives into her racing career on pavement (and a little dirt), the learning process she’s going through and how the pandemic provided her unforeseen opportunities on track.
Plus, Breidinger’s appearances on The TODAY Show, The Ellen Show and others have introduced her to a national audience. Hear how Breidinger has navigated being in the national spotlight recently, how she deals with haters thinking she’s not truly a racer. How does she utilize social media (where she has over a combined 1 million followers) to her benefit? She explains, along with her experiences modeling and that leading to sponsorship on track, her struggles while moving to Charlotte and her pet bunny named Fetty Hop.
Davey recaps Alex Bowman’s win at Richmond and questions what’s happened to the Virginia short track in recent years. He also briefly previews Talladega and Papa Segal gives an ode to a 93-year-old who stays young behind the wheel.
Stefan Parsons has already made a name for himself and is continuing to do so with BJ McLeod Motorsports in the Xfinity Series this season. The latest in line of Parsons to get behind a steering wheel, the 22-year-old joins Davey this week (17:45) to discuss his start in the sport, and how David Ragan’s father, Ken, was influential in him beginning at Charlotte in bandoleros as a youngster. He also explains why starting racing at 12-years-old, relatively late compared to others, was actually a good thing in the long run.
Parsons dives into his father Phil’s career and how it’s impacted how he’s helped Stefan in his ascension up the racing ranks, his memories of Phil Parsons Racing in the mid-late 2000s, the cool moment of doing a prerace segment for FOX before his Truck Series debut and more. He also reflects on his uncle Benny’s induction into the NASCAR Hall of Fame and why it meant so much for the Parsons family.
Stefan also describes the help those in the sport gave him over the years, most notably Carl Edwards, how his Dogecoin sponsorship (to the moon!) this year came full circle and why getting a college degree was important to him. Plus, his love of the Detroit Red Wings and golf, his friendship with Cup Series driver William Byron and more, including goals for this season in the No. 99 car for BJ McLeod Motorsports.
Davey also touches on Martin Truex Jr.’s short track dominance after yet another Martinsville win, explains why Josh Berry stole the weekend by giving hope to hundreds of racers across the country and previews Richmond Raceway.
Kelly Crandall joins Davey this week (8:30) to discuss and reflect on her impressive motorsports journalism career to date, which includes not one but two NMPA Writer of the Year awards. The industry veteran recalls hilarious (and horrific) stories from covering the NASCAR beat on the road over the years, and whether or not it feels like she’s been covering the sport full-time for almost a decade.
The 2001 Pepsi 400 at Daytona had Crandall hooked, and she was racing obsessed from there on out. Getting started writing whatever, wherever and however, she incrementally gained reps and parlayed that into an opportunity to lead Popular Speed’s coverage. After quitting her day job at home, she decided to make the move to Charlotte to pursue a full-time career in the sport, where she received a plethora of help from others in hopes of making it. She explains some tumultuous times while grinding to make it, and why she’s trying to pay it forward today.
Hear why she “was gonna throw up” when she realized she’d become the Writer of the Year and her reflection on the hard work that it took to get to that moment. She now spearheads Racer's NASCAR coverage and is loving every minute of it. Crandall discusses the creativity that is allowed in her current role and why it’s refreshing given her past. Plus, how she’s navigated being a female in a male dominated industry, if having a significant other in racing makes things easier and her love of WWE and Schitt’s Creek.
Papa Segal gives an ode to a Hall of Famer you probably didn’t know piloted the No. 02 car and Davey previews the action from Martinsville Speedway.
Amber Balcean made history, becoming the first Canadian female to win a NASCAR sanctioned race in the United States. But she’s now setting her sights on bigger and better things in the motorsports world. She joins Davey this week (17:00) to explain why joining the BMR Drivers Academy was the perfect opportunity for a driver like her and why racing has always been a constant in her life as a third generation driver.
She recalls her historic win at Motor Mile in 2016 and the celebratory reception that her hometown of Winnipeg gave her in the aftermath. But the lack of sponsors that followed were the realization that funding would be the biggest hurdle to overcome throughout this journey and she was going to have to grind for it. Balcean also describes the harrowing crash she was involved in at Valley Speedway, which left her with a severe concussion, burns and a collapsed lung. She dives into her two-month recovery and whether or not she had doubts of returning to racing post-recovery and more.
Some may recognize Balcean’s name from the reality show “Racing Wives” that ran a couple years ago. Davey gets to the bottom of what was real and what was fabricated on the show, and Balcean expresses frustration at her portrayal on the show, but also explains why taking the opportunity to be a part of it was a no brainer for multiple reasons.
Plus, Davey recaps the Bristol Dirt race, what was done well and what can be improved for the event next year.
The often imitated, never duplicated and distinguished motorsports journalist Jeff Gluck is the highly awaited guest for landmark Episode 100 of the podcast. Davey Segal chats with one of his biggest mentors and names in NASCAR about his illustrious career spanning multiple decades.
Growing up out West, Gluck details his upbringing (including being classmates with team owner Justin Marks) and how coming East to study journalism at Delaware kicked the next chapter of his life into high gear. After attending his first NASCAR race at Rockingham Speedway, he was hooked. From that point forward, he began covering the sport “on the side” any way he could while a high school preps reporter, which led to his upward trajectory.
Gluck recalls the hilarious way he got introduced to “NASCAR Scene,” which became his employer for some of the best years of his life. The glitz, glamor and glory of the sport in its heyday was stuff of legend, and Gluck shares some stories about NASCAR at its peak in the mid/late 2000s...before it all came crashing down and he was jobless.
From SB Nation, to USA Today, to starting his own website and everything in between, Gluck dives into each stop of his professional career along the way and what came along with them, including a time when Brian France and countless drivers were rather displeased with one of his articles and made sure to let him know.
Moving back out West to start a family could have come at the expense of his career, but it didn’t, much in part thanks to his patrons. Gluck gets real about how they literally changed his life, and why it made leaving for The Athletic such a tough decision. But he’s loving it, and tells Davey why this is the last job he’ll take in motorsports journalism. The two share laughs, stories and some heartfelt messages in what truly is an extravaganza of a 100th episode.
And as always, Papa Segal gives an ode to a lesser-known driver of the No. 0, and Davey reflects on reaching the 100th episode of the podcast.
Hardcore NASCAR fans may not recognize the name, but those in the Washington D.C. area will. Grant Paulsen is a new and avid NASCAR fan, and he joins Davey (14:00) to discuss how the return amid the COVID-19 pandemic accelerated his fandom to levels even he didn't expect. Paulsen, a fixture on D.C. radio and television, describes the process involved in picking Erik Jones as his favorite driver, as well as his purchase of Jones' sheet metal during quarantine (to much apathy of his wife).
Plus, why the stances NASCAR took last summer allowed him to dive in fully with his fandom, his unique perspective on the sport as a new, wide-eyed fan and his admiration for Larry McReynolds and NASCAR's broadcast partners. As a child, Paulsen regularly appeared on "The Late Show with David Letterman" and attended Super Bowls on behalf of the show. He explains how those opportunities came to be, including an incredible story involving legends Joe Montana and Franco Harris.
Davey also touches on Martin Truex Jr.'s Phoenix victory and why tire wear at Atlanta is a welcome change in the realm of 1.5-mile tracks. Papa Segal gives an ode to "The Mayor" and a famous backflipper who donned the No. 99. Plus, plenty of Lug Nuts as the Bristol Dirt Race looms.
Dillon Welch is back (25:50) for the second and final installment of his chat with Davey, as they cover the professional side of his career. He details the unique skillset required to be a turn announcer for the Motor Racing Network, and recalls some shenanigans with the MRN crew over the years. Welch also works with NBC covering all forms of racing, and explains how that opportunity came about and progressed rapidly.
One would think his dad, Vince Welch (play-by-play for Trucks and pit reporter for Xfnity and Cup Series) would have had a big influence on Dillon's career. And that'd be correct, but Dillon explains how his dad pointed him in the right direction, but let him do the dirty work, make connections, gain experience and do the job himself. Vince and Dillon, though, did become the first father/son duo to work the Indianapolis 500, and were on the same telecast once. Dillon relives those memories, and talks about how special it is to have his dad by his side at the track.
Welch's girlfriend, Hannah Newhouse, is also his co-worker at MRN. He explains how they navigate the often slippery slope of balancing "work and play" and tells a funny story about how she ghosted him initially. In addition, some tales of oversleeping and missed flights, holey socks and his secret passion once the liquid courage starts flowing.
The national anthem before the Truck race made headlines, and Davey chats with the singer himself: AVOID's Benny Scholl (15:50). He explains why the performance was not as originally planned and his background in NASCAR.
Plus, a VERY special announcement and milestone for the podcast (13:15), discussion of Kyle Larson's Las Vegas victory with Hendrick Motorsports and an ode to two iconic drivers to pilot the No. 98.
Davey welcomes on Dillon Welch (15:45) of MRN, NBC and dirt midget racing for Part 1 of their all-encompassing conversation. Welch explains how he stays organized with his busy schedule, how and why he gravitated towards racing as a kid in basketball rich Indiana. He also explains how he got his start in racing at seven-years-old with Chat Boat, and how it’s come full circle with the Boat’s two decades later at the Chili Bowl.
Speaking of the famed event, Welch has competed in it countless times, and recalls tales from Tulsa, including sneaking into the A-main one year and contracting the infamous “Chili Bowl Flu” year after year. Also, why do dirt racing aficionados call it “Chili Bowl” and not “THE Chili Bowl?” Davey was curious, and Dillon provides an answer. Plus, how his connection with the late Bryan Clauson was impactful on and off track, whether or not he had any stock car aspirations, if his dirt racing escapades helps him as a broadcaster, his Emmy-winning production work at Ball State University and his time as a USAC PA announcer that led him to the next chapter(s) of his career.
Davey also recaps William Byron’s victory from Homestead-Miami and explains why the venue is the best intermediate track in the world. Plus, a Las Vegas preview, Marcus Lemonis is throwing money into the Truck Series and an ode from Papa Segal to a famous No. 97.
Longtime motorsports journalist Zack Albert of NASCAR.com joins Davey (18:25) this week to discuss his career in the field, overcoming his personal battles, and stories aplenty at the famed North Wilkesboro Speedway. Albert, North Carolina born and bred, has been around racing since his childhood. He recalls his first foray into motorsports, pursuing it as a career, the various stops along the way over two decades and tremendous tales of working at North Wilkesboro, including an appropriate parting gift before its closure.
Albert also overcame depression and survived a suicide attempt. He opens up about mental health and why a change in his life was a necessity at that point in time. He also has the honor being on the NASCAR Hall of Fame voting panel, and explains why he doesn't take that lightly. Plus, the two dive into his extreme passion for the outdoors, hiking, collecting typewriters and Davey explains how Zack gave him his start in NASCAR and how he has been a mentor of his for years.
Davey also discusses Christopher Bell's first Cup Series victory at the Daytona Road Course, Ty Gibbs' history making triumph in the Xfinity Series and Papa Segal gives an overdue ode to a famous No. 95 in motorsports.
Motorsports broadcasting legend Jamie Little is back for a return visit on the pod (25:30) after her history-making weekend, becoming the first woman to handle play-by-play duties for a national motorsports series. Davey and Jamie discuss why actually calling the ARCA Menards Series race live was easier than practicing in the weeks leading up, her insanely busy week covering all four series at Daytona, including yet another Great American Race.
Little had the opportunity to interview the President of the United States last season, something that the White House personally asked her to do. She details what went into chatting with the POTUS and gets real about the important responsibility and struggle in covering death in motorsports, notably when her friend Dan Wheldon lost his life in 2011 at Las Vegas.
From owning two Jimmy John's and Nothing Bundt Cakes franchises, Little somehow is in impeccable shape. She discusses entrepreneurship with her husband, Cody, her passion of working with dogs on "America's Top Dog" and differences between reporting on motorsports and the Westminster Dog Show, her cameos in Netflix's "The Crew" with Kevin James, Fantastic Four, being on the cover of a video game and more. Plus, after all she's accomplished and as she continues to break barriers, what's next for her?
Michael McDowell is a Daytona 500 champion, but it's not all that surprising. Davey explains why the journeyman driver's triumph was a long time coming and shouldn't be a shock to NASCAR fans. He also recaps the entirety of Speedweek after being on site in Daytona, previews the DIS Road Course this weekend and hits on Lug Nuts. As a bonus, listen to hear Austin Cindric's favorite cut of beef...IYKYK.
(For more on Jamie Little, check out Episode 86 in the archives!)
Congratulations, you made it! The off-season is over and the 2021 season is officially here. Davey is on site at Daytona International Speedway in advance of the 63rd running of the Daytona 500. He dives into the Busch Clash, won by Kyle Busch, and the last lap move that saw two best friends wreck each other for the win.
Davey also welcomes on Andrew Kurland (12:08) to preview the upcoming season as a whole. From new organizations, new faces in new places, new venues on the Cup Series schedule, the two break down everything on the horizon for the 2021 season. Why is Pitbull so electric, and has NASCAR gotten its swag back?
Not all 24-year-olds are NASCAR Cup Series team owners, but that’s exactly why Matt Tifft is one of the more unique individuals in the garage. The Live Fast Motorsports co-owner joins Davey (6:20) this week to discuss the planning process behind starting the team, why now is the right time to get into ownership and what he can bring to the table from a youth perspective.
Plus, Tifft also explains Live Fast’s charter situation and why he actually always had thoughts of becoming a team owner, even in his driving days. He discusses the uniqueness of operating a Cup Series team out of an Xfinity Series shop for 2021, what his wife thinks about this new venture, his longstanding relationship with co-owner and “big brother” B.J. McLeod (despite them looking like polar opposites on the surface) and realistic expectations for the No. 78 in their first year on track.
Tifft’s history with seizures is well documented, and coming out publicly as having epilepsy was very important to him. He admits the challenges that coming to terms with his diagnoses have included, why it was important to publicly discuss being epileptic and what he does on a daily basis to keep his condition under control.
The two also chat about whether or not he will he make a push for CBD oils to become an approved form of sponsorship in NASCAR, his love for the Cleveland Browns, newfound passion for acting (he’s a movie star!), learning Chinese and a high school memory including 33 missed calls leading up to his senior prom.
A satirical success like no other, the famed "nascarcasm" joins Davey for this week's chat. Starting his Twitter account over a decade ago, 'Casm's following has grown from just a few NASCAR fans to almost 200,000, laughing with him along the way (and maybe at him a time or two). The two discuss his upbringing, including graduating with a journalism degree from Indiana University and his graphic design experience, both in which aid him in his current role.
He recalls many belly-laughing stories, including when Brad Keselowski shouted him out on SportsCenter in 2012, Will Power's reaction when he realized who 'Casm was, tickling Carl Edwards' palm, his fake feud with Jamie McMurray, getting Jimmie Johnson to wear a custom romper with his face on it and plenty more. And does he really have a job title?
Plus, the two discuss who the most memeable driver is, the famed Clint Bowyer tweet, his creative process, "The Sideshow" at Texas, whether or not his drafts are full of golden tweets, why showing his personal side (while remaining somewhat anonymous) is important and much more.
In the second and final installment of Davey’s chat with Julia Landauer, the two dive into how her opportunity to compete in the NASCAR Whelen Euro Series came to be, including why she was thrown into the deep end, way behind the eight ball with virtually no track time ahead of her rookie season. In addition to the language barrier and being stuck across the world for three months amid the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, she had a lot of adjusting to do in little time.
Landauer further explains why she embraces being an ambassador for women in motorsports, and where she thinks we are in the road to leveling the playing field for females in racing. She also reveals how she got into her “day job” as a motivational speaker and why she finds empowering others incredibly rewarding, including how she herself is able to stay positive amid these incredibly tough times. Plus, reflecting on being named apart of the “Forbes: 30 Under 30” list, her accomplishments on and off track to this point in her life and why “#BecauseRacecar” is the best trend you probably didn't know about.
She truly is “The Most Interesting Woman in Motorsports.” In the first installment of this two part interview, you’ll learn why. Julia Landauer joins Davey (6:15) to discuss how a young girl from the upper west side of New York City got involved in racing. Not the most common trio out there, is it? But after becoming the youngest female champion in Skip Barber Racing School history (age 14), it was clear she had what it takes.
Landauer attended Stanford University while furthering her racing career, and details why the decision was rather pragmatic despite most drivers opting to forgo higher education. While in school, Landauer competed on the popular reality show “Survivor,” but hid an important aspect of her life. After being voted off (and recalling word for word when she was accused of being “too vanilla”), she reflected on why she didn’t show a big part of who she is and learned why embracing who you really are is the best strategy of them all. She’s learned a lot more lessons, specifically ones at the race track that the classroom can’t teach you.
Plus, why she doesn’t enjoy driving street cars, experiencing cultural “bubbles” in NYC, Stanford, North Carolina and Europe (to name a few) and how being a female in motorsports, while having its challenges, is more rewarding and empowering than having it the easy way.
Another week, another member of Bills Mafia on the pod! Alan Cavanna joins Davey (4:30) for an off-season chat with a lot of laughs. Growing up in New England racing against the likes of Joey Logano, Ryan Preece, Doug Coby and more, Cavanna details why his racing career never took off, despite a championship and over 100 trophies.
Cavanna tells the story of how he and his wife, CNN correspondent Dianne Gallagher, met in a courtroom, with a computer, and a friend request. Years later, they’re happily married and finally living together for the first time in Charlotte. A proud Syracuse graduate, he recalls his time on campus for the 2000 national championship run, and how learning the tricks of the trade in journalism during his college years shaped him professionally upon graduating.
Amid the infamous Jeremy Mayfield suspension saga, Cavanna was the first (and only) person to speak with Mayfield, and the backstory on how their conversation came to be is truly remarkable. Plus, some incredibly hilarious (and true!) stories of his time in local news, including a dead dog named shithead, a “creepy masturbator” and much, much more. Patrolling Truck Series pit road this past year for NASCAR on FOX was a challenge, yet rewarding and full of moments. The two discuss being on hand for those, and how Cavanna’s creativity, coupled with his background in news, have aided in his execution of unique content throughout his accomplished career.
As one of the up-and-coming NASCAR media members, Dustin Albino is onto his next opportunity at Jayski for 2021. But getting to this point has been a journey filled with trials, tribulations, blood, sweat and tears. Davey and Dustin chat (8:15) about growing up in in New York and why an introduction from his grandmother to Bobby Labonte’s green No. 18 car sparked his interest and love for NASCAR.
The two have worked at multiple motorsports blogs together, including Frontstretch for the better part of the last five years. Albino describes the learning experiences while being at the track while credentialed, including cultivating relationships, breaking stories (including freaking out to Davey before doing so), reliving “The Gauldashian” saga that put him on that map and leaning on mentors throughout the process. They also get real about the grind that is trying to make it in the industry, and why achieving success in this media landscape makes the work all the more rewarding.
Plus, his love for WWE, proposing to Nikki Bella, basking in the glory of the Buffalo Bills finally being good, that time when Clint Bowyer offered to pay for his travel expenses, the “Dustin Special” and more.
Papa Segal also gives an ode to one of the most famed numbers in NASCAR (and his heart): the 88.
These two go way back, and boy do they have some stories to tell. Davey welcomes on Camping World Truck Series driver Derek Kraus (6:00) for a wide-ranging off-season chat, with multiple appearances from the entire Kraus family (and his girlfriend Stephanie). Fresh off his best ever finish in the Snowball Derby, Kraus details why the enormous super late model event carries the weight it does, and how the winner (and his roommate) Ty Majeski put the iconic trophy in some questionable places. Plus, after officially announcing his 2021 plans, what are his realistic expectations in year two?
Kraus relives his dominant K&N Pro Series days, including his initial test with Bill McAnally Racing at Kern County at the age of 15-years-old, his first win a year later at the same track and the interaction he had with Kevin Harvick after the two made contact at, you guessed it, Kern. Plus, his perspective on the infamous Hailie Deegan dump in Colorado, including the aftermath immediately and weeks after, and his championship celebration (once he got the bottles popping) at Phoenix.
The two chat about Wisconsin producing a ridiculous amount of racing talent, his time at the Slinger Nationals, his rookie season in the Truck Series, adjusting to showing up with no practice and racing, his connection with other NAPA drivers, missing out on typical teenage activities in favor of racing, food preferences, his Jack’s Pizza obsession, his fear of heights, his love of wrestling, his theory about Danica Patrick’s significant others and so, so, SO much more. A can't miss conversation that's one for the ages.
She’s been breaking barriers for the better part of two decades, and 2021 will be no different for Jamie Little. The FOX Sports reporter joins Davey (12:05) to discuss her career in racing, including how she got started in the industry and how being bold and brave led to her first professional opportunity in Supercross. As they say, the rest is history.
From covering her first Indianapolis 500 for ESPN (and becoming the first female to do so) to paving the path for a plethora of other females in motorsports, Little hasn’t had much time to reflect on her accomplishments. But she does exactly that in this conversation while remaining humble and knowing there’s more left to do. Being named the first woman to call television play-by-play for a national racing series (ARCA) for the 2021 season comes with a unique set of challenges, in addition to learning a new skillset. Little details those, and explains why the timing was right to make this move.
Little dives into how she’s been able to do her job flying solo due to COVID, with the aid of many group chats and people in her ear. Plus, that time when she beat Truck Series legend Mike Skinner in a Toyota Pro/Celebrity race and proved Tony Stewart and Kevin Harvick wrong.
Also, in this week’s Wayback segment, Papa Segal pays homage to a frequent visitor of the show (if you know, you know) and it went about as weirdly as you’d expect.
Gracie Trotter became the first female to ever win an ARCA sanctioned event earlier this season, but there’s much more that meets the eye with this third generation racer. Trotter joins Davey (7:40) to discuss her upbringing in racing, including her father’s journey to North Carolina from Texas at age 21 and working on his go-kart in his mother’s living room. She recalls an evening at the track where being the trophy girl wound up sparking her interest in driving instead, as well as when her father spun his seven-year-old daughter out while karting.
Trotter was selected as a part of the NASCAR Drive for Diversity class in 2019 and just finished up another season competing for Rev Racing in late models, as well as her rookie campaign with Bill McAnally Racing in the ARCA Menards Series West. Her victory at The Bullring in Las Vegas was historic, and came in the same month as her late model victory at Hickory. Trotter details the two wins, and why sharing the Victory Lane experienced with her father meant the world to them both. Plus, the trials and tribulations of being a female in racing, life as a Toyota development driver, her love of Whataburger and reminiscing on when she couldn’t test a car because she was too short to reach the pedals (yes, really).
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David Ragan makes a return appearance to the program (7:50) to give us an update on how retired life is treating him and his family. But he hasn’t slowed down completely, earning his best career Daytona 500 finish earlier this season and hopping behind the wheel of a DGR-Crosley Truck twice. Plus, he gives us a sneak peek into what his role with Ford Performance is and will be next year to help with the development of the NextGen car. Ragan reminisces on his time at Roush Racing, why it wasn’t the best of times, being hand-picked by Mark Martin to replace the Hall of Fame driver and why, looking back on it, he was so stupid on and off track.
He also details how he came to be the replacement driver for Kyle Busch in 2015 at Joe Gibbs Racing and whether or not his results in the No. 18 were characteristic of how they performed. After finishing out the year at Michael Waltrip Racing, Ragan made a stop at BK Racing before landing at Front Row Motorsports for the second and final time, where he finished out his full-time Cup career in 2019. Topics also include participating in the “Driver X” program, his father Ken playing an integral part in his career, his thoughts on the topsy-turvy 2020 NASCAR season and more.
Not many 15-year-olds are champions in any major racing series, but Jesse Love can call himself one—the youngest in ARCA Menards Series West history at that. The wise beyond his years Menlo Park, California kid joins Davey this week to discuss his dominant 2020 season that saw him win three times and lead the series in virtually every statistical category. Hear why Love believed he was the favorite to win the title before the season even started with Bill McAnally Racing, and why he fell short of preseason expectations for himself despite being crowned champion.
Plus, the two dive deep into his racing upbringing (including the influence from Jeff Gordon and John Bickford), his time spent on dirt with Keith Kunz Motorsports and their incredible stable of talent, why he was always eyeing stock car racing, having the support of Toyota through his development and a speak peek of what he’ll be doing in 2021.
Fresh off the 2020 ARCA Menards Series championship, Bret Holmes joins Davey this week (6:50) for an all-encompassing chat. For a small, family-run team, a series title is beyond belief. In fact, Holmes and company weren’t planning on running a full-time schedule this season. But when their plans changed, so did their expectations, performance and results. Holmes delves into what the turning point in his season was and how he celebrated the title at Kansas. His father has been integral in his racing development. Holmes details sharing the title with him, as well as crew chief Shane Huffman, and why the people associated with his team mean so much to him personally.
From Munford, Alabama, Holmes grew up racing on the Talladega Short Track (and eventually broke his father’s track record). His upbringing included competing against NASCAR Hall of Famer Red Farmer, who he developed a familial relationship with. But as time went on, the realistic aspects of racing caught up with him. Holmes explains how he overcame mental hurdles amid a winless drought to come out better on and off track. Plus, Holmes is closing on in his degree from Auburn University, and recalls the decision making process of attending college, being at the famous “Kick Six” game and more. Plus, his 2021 plans are beginning to take shape, with the potential for a move to the Truck Series appearing imminent. And did you know his name actually isn’t Bret?
And with that, the 2020 NASCAR season is over. But not before Chase Elliott etched his name into the history books, earning his first career Cup Series championship at the ripe age of 24. Davey details how Elliott grabbed the victory, got over the hump with some help from crew chief Alan Gustafson and the proverbial passing of the torch at Hendrick Motorsports from the retiring GOAT, Jimmie Johnson, to Elliott.
Davey also gives the Xfinity and Truck Series champions Austin Cindric and Sheldon Creed their due, and details how each earned their titles with similar pit strategies at the end of the race. Plus, a team owner wins for the first time since 2012, Bill McAnally Racing keeps on dominating, Brett Moffitt is big mad and an ode to "Herman the German" from Papa Segal.
After becoming the youngest ever NHRA champion, Tanner Gray decided to switch things up. The third generation racer joins Davey (26:45) to discuss his move to circle track racing and stock cars, including why his mind was made up before his championship season, the reason he was so dead set on it for years, whether or not his family legacy in NHRA put any pressure on him and a funny story of the first time he strapped into a dragster. Gray also details growing up in New Mexico, where racing wasn’t very popular, and devoting his focus to baseball, not being so hard on himself and why he wasn’t totally able to enjoy his first K&N Pro Series win at South Boston.
The two also chat about a few other memorable moments in his K&N tenure, being a part of the Ford Development Program, the competition difference from K&N to ARCA to Trucks, driving for David Gilliland and working with championship crew chief Shane Wilson in his first full-time season in the Truck Series. Plus, his love of golf (and how good he really is), his dog, Leo, a potential nickname and a hysterical story of when his brother, Taylor, strangled him at the go-kart track.
Davey recaps the mayhem from Martinsville, which saw Kevin Harvick's shocking elimination from the playoffs while Chase Elliott's clutch performance earned him a Championship 4 spot. Is there a problem with this format? He gives his take. Plus, a complete preview of the title deciding weekend in Phoenix for all three national series.
Fresh off his first career ARCA victory, Taylor Gray stops by (25:20) to discuss his roller coaster weekend out West, from heartbreak to redemption all in a span of three days. The 15-year-old (!) DGR-Crosley wheelman discusses the performance throughout his rookie campaign in ARCA, where he’s finished outside the top 10 only twice. He also reminisces on his flip in a late model at Martinsville and why it felt like nothing compared to doing so in a dirt car, his friendship with Ty Gibbs, including why drivers coming from racing families get bad rap, and his love of the Seattle Seahawks. In addition, he provides his side of the hilarious story involving his brother Tanner getting choked out at the go-kart track way back when.
The marathon at Texas has mercifully come to an end, and KFB is indeed back. Davey recaps Kyle Busch’s fuel saving masterclass from the Lone Star State and breaks down the playoff picture for all three national series heading into Martinsville, the final race before championship weekend. Plus, Kyle Larson officially has a Cup Series ride for next year and beyond, Josh Berry has the best birthday of all-time and more.
Elijah Burke graduated from college, went viral and got hired by his favorite childhood racing team, Chip Ganassi Racing, in a matter of weeks. Odds are you know his name or have seen his “NASCAR Style” graduation interview, but this week, Davey chats with his longtime friend (24:15) about what went into getting where he is today. From the planning of the 45 seconds that changed his life to it blowing up overnight (literally), Burke shares why he almost didn’t even post the video at all, the whirlwind that followed (including trips to Richmond, Charlotte and into Chip Ganassi’s motorhome) and eventually getting offered a job from CGR. Burke shares what his role as digital media strategist entails, how he gained an appreciation for selling sponsors, where his creativity comes from and more.
Plus, he sheds some light on what it was like seeing his childhood hero Kyle Larson, the reason he fell in love with CGR, fall from grace within his own company this year, working closely with IndyCar legend Scott Dixon and future NASCAR Hall of Famer Kurt Busch, driving 150+ mph at Michigan International Speedway as well as an update on his diecast collection.
Davey also discusses the finish to the Round of 8 opener at Kansas and why it was among the most frustrating endings he’s seen in recent years (but that doesn’t make it a bad race). Does Joey Logano have an upper hand on the competition now? Plus, a preview of Texas, a Silly Season update and the ARCA Menards Series crowns a champion.
Michael Self has been around the block a time or two, and now he finds himself with grasp of the ARCA Menards Series championship. The Venturini Motorsports driver joins Davey (19:40) to discuss his introduction to racing, including go-karting in Utah, eventually competing in the world championships in Portugal and why his time as a RCR development driver wasn’t all it was cracked up to be. Plus, his time in the K&N Pro Series spanning multiple organizations (and winning multiple times), how his relationship with Sinclair Oil began and his passion for coaching the next generation of drivers and road racing. Self candidly discusses the difficulty in racing a revolving door of teenagers while being a veteran of the series, and how the two differing ideologies on track seem don’t mesh, whether or not he’s content to stay in ARCA or gain more national series experience and why getting his business degree at age 30 is one of the smartest things he’s done in his life.
The two also share some laughs about getting kisses from team owner Bill Venturini in Victory Lane, old photos on his website, having his former team owner and chef cook him some gourmet hot dogs, a rental car shuttle at 4 a.m. following a win in Idaho and more.
The playoff field has been dwindled down to eight, as Davey recaps a wild and soggy Charlotte ROVAL weekend, including why Sunday's first stage was so entertaining. Plus, previewing Kansas and the Round of 8, a Silly Season update, Alex Bowman's important radio chatter and more.
In the second installment of Davey’s chat with Chase Cabre (19:45), the two discuss his brother Collin’s cancer diagnosis, what Chase is doing on his micro sprint to support his him and why nothing in their relationship has changed despite the tough times. Chase also reminisces on his teammates at Rev Racing over the years, including some prior beef with Ryan Vargas, plenty of laughs with Ruben Garcia Jr. and how he’s seen himself change as a person over the last half decade with the team. Chase discusses his new obsession with fitness, why he never has a cheat day (well, except for that ONE time with Chick-Fil-A on the plane home), his newfound Tik Tok fame and why he’s putting so much effort behind it. Lastly, the two get real about the business of the sport and Chase reveals his departure from Rev and NASCAR at season’s end, including the financial and mental challenges associated with this career. But his racing career is far from over, as a more dirt focused path is in his future.
Denny Hamlin asserts his superspeedway dominance once again, but the dreaded yellow line rule has sparked conversation. Does the rule have a place in the sport? Davey discusses. Plus, why he thinks the ROVAL cutoff race may be anticlimactic (unless rain actually comes), Kyle Larson’s future, the new driver of the No. 48 for Hendrick, Hailie Deegan’s national series debut and more.
Chase Cabre’s NASCAR career has seen its fair share of ups and downs, but one things has remained constant: his love for racing. In the first installment of this interview (18:45), Davey chats with the Rev Racing driver about his passion for dirt racing and it all beginning with motocross, why he could’ve been on a path to become a prominent soccer player and how his brothers acceptance to the "Drive for Diversity" program sparked his interest in a stock car career. Also, relieving his first K&N Pro Series win at Memphis and the success that followed, injuring his back at Bristol, the subsequent rivalry with Sam Mayer (including wrecking him in a go-kart race at Gateway) and the perks that come with being associated with “NASCAR Next.” Plus, Davey attempts to pronounce his hometown of Thonotosassa, Chase reveals that he peaked in high school (only to Davey, at least) and more.
The 2021 schedule has finally been released, and it has multiple shakeups. Davey peruses through the slate with all the the big changes, and explains why one specific alteration just ain’t it. Plus, a recap of Kurt Busch’s surprise win at his home track after 22 attempts, the G.O.A.T. stepping down from the pit box after this season and a preview of Talladega.
Almost everyone knows him, but not many know about him. Steve Luvender, one of the funniest people in the NASCAR twitterverse, is this week’s guest (29:00). Davey and Steve discuss his love for sim racing and how that sparked his interest in the sport and how Trading Paints on iRacing has become a staple of the platform, just as Random Fantasy Racing (and other hilarious random generators) have over the years. Plus, calling himself a “field filler” leads to a random discussion about Reed Sorenson (hi if you’re listening, Reed), working with nascarcasm, compiling a gargantuan folder of driver pictures and being an overall meme connoisseur. The two also discuss a myriad of food takes, including the hierarchy of soups, breakfast delicacies, whether it’s “plain” or “cheese” pizza, whoopie pies and more.
Michael Jordan is starting a NASCAR team in 2021, and Davey explains why the move is monumental, coming with the possibility for it transcend sports. Also, a recap of the Bristol cutoff race which saw four drivers’ championship hopes dashed, a preview of the Round of 12 opener from Las Vegas, Sam Mayer's historic evening and more.
From creating his own website at the ripe age of 12 to becoming the producer of one of the most successful podcasts in NASCAR, Jason Schultz has accomplished a whole heck of a lot in a short amount of time. Davey gets together with the Dirty Mo Media utility man and “content king” (20:30) to discuss their humble beginnings on Twitter, why being early adopters the platform in the NASCAR world shaped their career paths and how his networking skills at a young age paid dividends. Also, some hilarious stories of how Jason actually gave Davey his start in NASCAR media back in the day, how a rain delay in Dover changed his life, Dale Earnhardt Jr. blessing his Achilles, Danica Patrick teaching him how to give a proper handshake and more. Plus, why achieving his ultimate career goal at 21-years-old was something so important to him, what goes into producing “Door Bumper Clear” (and corralling TJ Majors, Brett Griffin and Freddie Kraft) behind the scenes and what his future career aspirations look like.
Davey also chats about the race at Richmond this past weekend, including whether or not it was a good race (spoiler alert: it was fine, stop being so picky) and why Brad Keselowski may be a championship favorite. Plus, a brief preview of the Round of 16 cutoff from Bristol and “Lug Nuts of the Week.”
The playoffs are underway, but Kevin Harvick's winning ways haven't changed. Davey recaps the weekend of racing from Darlington, including the late-race excitement that saw drivers tangle and whether or not the move(s) were clean.
He welcomes on Jessie Punch, host of "The Pace Lap" at NASCAR International (19:30) to discuss being a newlywed in quarantine, her love for Clemson and working at the Western Athletic Conference in Denver out of college. Plus, the decision making process on moving back East to join the NASCAR International team, how her father has influenced her personally and professionally and why she gave Bill Elliott the cold shoulder when he wanted to recall a story about her dad. Also, how is her Instagram game so fire? The two discuss it all.
With Auto Club Speedway set to turn into a short track, Davey analyzes the bombshell news and why it makes sense, Jimmie Johnson's plans for the next couple years and a brief Richmond preview.
William Byron earned his first career Cup Series victory in the regular season finale at Daytona to vault himself into the playoffs, and boy oh boy did it deliver. Jimmie Johnson won't be able to chase eight, as a late "Big One" sealed his fate. With 26 races down and 10 to go, the NASCAR Playoffs are here. Davey previews the postseason round by round and gives his predictions, including his 2020 champion. Plus, a preview of the Southern 500 from Darlington to kick off the playoffs and "Lug Nuts of the Week" including a couple contract extensions.
Davey welcomes on NASCAR Vice President of Diversity and Inclusion, Brandon Thompson (31:10), for an insightful and honest conversation. From getting started as an intern in Nashville 17 years ago to becoming the first diversity intern graduate to join NASCAR’s executive ranks as an officer, BT has done it all. How his time as the managing director of the touring series furthered his love and passion for racing, his time at Rev Racing and how it all came full circle, the significance of Bubba Wallace in today's climate and how the progressive stances NASCAR has taken and continues to take makes him feel as a Black man in the position of leadership at the company. Plus, some fun tales of his family sneaking into Nashville Fairgrounds as a kid, his collection of vinyl records and his favorite race tracks/destinations over the years. In addition, Davey recaps an extremely busy weekend of racing from the Monster Mile, as Denny Hamlin and Kevin Harvick continue to rack up playoff points. With one race to go in the Cup Series regular season, can Jimmie Johnson vault himself into the playoffs?
The Daytona Road Course made its NASCAR national series debut over the weekend, and the road course king reigned supreme once again. Davey recaps the inaugural event, including why change is good and whether or not returning to the venue should happen. He then welcomes back Heather DeBeaux (22:50) for part two of their extended conversation. Topics include getting into pit reporting, covering the K&N Pro Series and AFT (and how it led her to her boyfriend), working with PRN, reporting on live television versus tape delayed races, her competitive spirit when it comes to bodybuilding competitions and more. Lastly, a preview of the Dover doubleheader with a plea to Jimmie Johnson to git 'er done.
Back from his trip to Acadia, Davey recaps the doubleheader dominated by Kevin Harvick from Michigan, including Rodney Childers’ speed secrets and why wins may mean more than championships in todays NASCAR. He then welcomes on Heather DeBeaux (22:50), pit reporter extraordinaire for NBC and PRN, for part one of a fun chat. From spending time during a pandemic in a hotspot (Arizona) to when she became involved in racing (including how a MySpace advertisement started everything), the two touch on it all. Reminiscing on the SPEED days, stories of the late Steve Byrnes, transitioning to an on-camera role, being a female in motorsports, having her first interview be with the G.O.A.T. and more. Finally, Davey touches on the unpredictability that’ll come with the Daytona Road Course this weekend before tightening some Lug Nuts.
Add Austin Dillon to the list of surprise winners, as a late-race caution spiced things up at Texas, as well as the playoff picture. But the star of the show is Davey's girlfriend, Robin (21:45). The two discuss her indoctrination (whether she liked it or not) to NASCAR, including what she's learned, who she likes (and doesn't), who's cute (and isn't), a story involving Denny Hamlin on one of their first dates and her thoughts on how the championship will play out this year. Don't be too surprised at her knowledge though—she knows her stuff. Finally, Davey briefly previews Kansas and discusses the elimination of practice and qualifying for the remainder of 2020.
Lots to hit on this week, including a first-time winner in a lackluster race (yet incredible finish) from Kentucky, an All-Star Race from Bristol that saw a new some visual experiments and NASCAR's most popular driver becoming $1 million richer. But why didn't we even SEE the choose cone in effect?! Plus, why Kentucky needs to go, the Texas race should be shortened and the announcement of a new racing series, spearheaded by two Hall of Famers, coming next year.
Another week, another race with Kevin Harvick and Denny Hamlin up front battling for the win. Davey recaps a busy Brickyard 400 from Indianapolis, including numerous tire failures (and rough impacts), the pit road fiasco resulting in an injured crew member and the strategy/on track battle between Harvick and Hamlin. He also touches on why we should sit back and appreciate the battle the two future Hall of Fame drivers and teams are putting on right now, and analyzes whether or not it'll last throughout the season. Plus, the addition of the Daytona Road Course to the 2020 schedule, President Donald Trump's false comments surrounding Bubba Wallace and NASCAR's television ratings, a brief Kentucky preview and more.
The first ever NASCAR Cup Series doubleheader weekend was a success, as Kevin Harvick and Denny Hamlin both earned victories (and almost swept the events) from the Tricky Triangle. Davey recaps all the racing action from Pennsylvania over the weekend before welcoming on businessman, entrepreneur and photographer extraordinaire: Daylon Barr (28:15). The two friends have an all encompassing conversation, ranging from whether or not birds are real (IYKYK), learning what a chanticleer is to his fascination with memes. The two also discuss how Daylon has built his racing photography company from the ground up, the satisfaction of it turning into one of the premier outlets in the garage, trials and tribulations that have come with owning his own business, life on the road traveling the NASCAR circuit and more. Plus, Davey previews this weekend’s Fourth of July racing festivities from Indianapolis, tightens some Lug Nuts and gives an ode to a former pace car driver and race winner from the great state of Maryland.
After what's been a whirlwind week, Davey discusses the events that have thrust NASCAR and Bubba Wallace into the international spotlight, including how the sanctioning body handled finding a noose in the No. 43 garage stall at Talladega, the positive resolution and problems that still persist following the incident. He also recaps the instant classic from 'Dega, where Ryan Blaney was victorious in yet another (identical) photo finish, previews the doubleheader and racing action from Pocono and more.
With the Class of 2021 for the NASCAR Hall of Fame set to be enshrined, Davey touches on each of the inductees and why the new process of electing three individuals instead of five is infinitely better for the sport long term. He also preaches as to why the resume of one inductee makes him a slam dunk for the Hall, despite some naysayers. Plus, a complete recap of a busy weekend of racing at Homestead-Miami Speedway.
It's been a progressive week for NASCAR amid protests for racial injustices, which culminated in the sanctioning body banning the confederate flag. Davey explains why this flurry of changes are good for the sport, and represent a glimpse into the future of inclusivity within it. He also details his unique experience being one of the only media members to cover a race during COVID-19, including the screening process. Plus, recaps of the events from Atlanta and Martinsville and a preview of Homestead-Miami.
There are bigger things going on in the country than racing right now, and they need to be talked about. Davey addresses the current racial tensions and injustices going on in the United States and why staying silent is no longer an option in the fight for equality. He also recaps the insane race from Bristol, where a perfect storm resulted in one of the best races in the last few years. Plus, a preview of Atlanta this weekend and NASCAR's return to Nashville is announced.
Davey recaps the double shot of racing from Charlotte, including Brad Keselowski's Coca-Cola 600 win, Chase Elliott's costly decision, the bounty being claimed in the Truck Series, Elliott getting the monkey off his back on Thursday and more. Plus, a preview of Bristol this weekend.
Real NASCAR racing is back and all is right in the world again. Davey recaps all the action from Darlington Raceway, including Kevin Harvick's milestone win and Denny Hamlin's rain-shortened victory on Wednesday. Topics also include Hamlin's hilarious mask, Chase Elliott's gesture to Kyle Busch, why Wednesday Night NASCAR needs to become a regular thing and was a gigantic success and more. Plus, Chase Briscoe's emotional and inspiring victory over Kyle Busch in the Xfinity Series and a preview of the Coca-Cola 600 at Charlotte.
Sam Hunt is breaking the mold as a NASCAR team owner at 26-years-old, and his story is anything but ordinary. After catching the racing bug growing up in the Netherlands, the "Americanized" racing scene took over once back stateside, where he stumbled upon a family friend: J.D. Gibbs. Hunt details their relationship and the help Gibbs gave him before and after college, starting his own team, moving to North Carolina and living in a van outside a shop for six months. Plus, how he and Colin Garrett became partners, the nerve-wracking qualifying run at Homestead in 2019 and why the Daytona heartbreak to kick off 2020 didn't phase him. Davey also recaps the finale iRacing event from North Wilkesboro and previews the return to real (!) racing this weekend at Darlington.
Davey welcomes on Colin Garrett (6:25) for a conversation full of laughs and reminiscing. The Elmo, Virginia native details his late start in getting behind the wheel and the rapid progression in the six years that followed, moving from class to class at his home track of South Boston Speedway, making the jump to race against "(his) heroes" in the K&N Pro Series, including his memorable debut at Langley Speedway. Garrett details moving from shop to shop in order to keep the racing dream alive and some stories of when he and team owner Sam Hunt took over the former Obaika Racing shop filled with junk. Plus, details on how the Hunt and Garrett partnership came together, their brotherly relationship, his love, appreciation and fascination with Formula 1, heartbreak after missing the show in Daytona, his family history in the armed forces translating to veteran backed sponsorships and more. Also, William Byron continues his iRacing dominance, winning at Dover.
Davey welcomes on NASCAR YouTube star Eric Estepp (17:00) to discuss his beginnings on the platform and becoming interested in racing, origins of becoming a Matt Kenseth fan, how his following ballooned to over 100,000 subscribers, getting recognized in public (at Disneyland, of all places!), making his show, "Out Of The Groove" a profitable and legitimate venture now that he's graduating college, his future plans for the channel/his career and more, including his crazy hair back in the day and living life as VERY tall person. Plus, with NASCAR slated to return in mid May at Darlington and Charlotte, Davey details what went into the decision to resume the 2020 season and gives his thoughts on the risk vs reward aspect.
Davey welcomes on the best teenage reporter in NASCAR, wink wink, Andrew Kurland, as the two discuss a myriad of topics on and off the track. The two break down the shocking news of Matt Kenseth replacing Kyle Larson at Chip Ganassi Racing for the remainder of 2020 and whether or not he'll be able to contend for race wins, how Andrew got started as a media member at the ripe age of 14 and why NASCAR was hesitant at first to grant him access. Plus, some legendary stories about the early days, including following Jeff Gordon into the driver's meeting, running on adrenaline while standing in Victory Lane with Jimmie Johnson, bombarding Mike Helton to ask him a stupid question and more. The two also touch on workout routines in quarantine, his freshman year at Arizona State University and long term goals for the 18-year-old, who has already accomplished so much in the industry. Davey also touches on the Pro Invitational Series race at Talladega won by Alex Bowman--or did his dog drive to the victory?
Davey welcomes on Aaron Bearden, founder and CEO of Motorsports Beat, for a wide-ranging conversation. Topics include how his job deeming him essential leads him to living an extremely normal life while others are quarantined, growing up in Indiana, his love for racing starting early on, being a NASCAR fan first and finding IndyCar/the Indianapolis 500 later and attending Ball State University (including how an allergy changed the trajectory of his life). Plus, why he began writing for fun, how it spiraled into something more, overcoming internal struggles with depression and why that makes him a doer, starting Motorsports Beat, the early wake-up calls to write "The Morning Warmup" newsletter, spending hours and hours on the road driving from race to race, tips to stay awake and, of course, how he comes up with his majestic puns...time after time.
Davey welcomes on Chase Wilhelm of NASCAR.com (6:10) for an extended conversation, including some jabs at each other, per usual. How he got into NASCAR at a young age in Ohio, how he almost majored in law instead of journalism in school, moving down to Charlotte to chase a dream (with no job waiting for him), getting his big break, only to get laid off, but eventually getting back on his feet and more. Plus, balancing the friend/professional relationship with drivers, why the hell he’s a Michigan fan when never attending the heinous institution, and of course, some Tinder talk. Also, a recap of William Byron’s second consecutive win in the Pro Invitational Series at Richmond and Lug Nuts of the Week.
With perhaps the best name in NASCAR, Jagger Jones has a rich family history in racing, but has already begun blazing his own trail. Davey and Jagger touch on his love of mountain biking and how that hobby is keeping him sane during this quarantine, being born in a post 9/11 world/not being a 90's kid, his family's background in racing and why how he got started at a young age may not be how most assume. Plus, an extended conversation about his dairy allergy (yes, really), spending some time as a teenager competing in go karts in Europe, reliving the infamous final lap on the Las Vegas Dirt Track in 2019, running the Norra 1000 with "The Snake" Don Prudhomme, why seven-time Cup champion Jimmie Johnson has become a mentor for Jones as he works his way through the ranks and more. Davey closes the show by addressing the Kyle Larson racial slur that led to his firing from Chip Ganassi Racing.
Zach McAfee, founder and owner of Sim Seats, producing Made in USA Driving Simulators since 2009, joins Davey to discuss how Sim Seats has become a leader in the simulator industry, including he got into the business from playing with a pile of scrap metal in college, how his passion for racing drove his interest further and the "aha" moment when he realized his endeavor may be a profitable one. Plus, the extreme financial gain in the last 36 months (amid the coronavirus pandemic, no less), a dive into what makes each rig different (including cost and features) his relationship with drivers, A.K.A. customers, including a funny story about having a conversation with the G.O.A.T. in his garage while delivering a rig, and more.
After recapping the caution-filled Pro Invitational Series event from Bristol won by William Byron, Davey welcomes on Diego Alvarado, eNASCAR Heat Pro League driver for Richard Petty Motorsports and photographer extraordinaire to discuss his cool story. From how a Southern California Hispanic kid got introduced to NASCAR to Davey and Diego's first time meeting, the two touch on everything. Discussing their fanboy stages, cross country road trips chasing the dream, getting drafted by RPM (and how he didn't know when he ~actually~ was selected), his goals and aspirations moving forward, an incredible revelation of his two part-time jobs and more. In "Lug Nuts of the Week," how the NASCAR industry is giving back amid the coronavirus pandemic.
Davey chats with longtime friend Hannah Newhouse in a wide-ranging, all over the place conversation. But who’s surprised about that with these two on the mic? From Hannah’s upbringing in Idaho, time behind the wheel racing, pivoting to the media route, packing up and moving to Charlotte, eventually landing at the Motor Racing Network (with various stops along the way), the two touch on it all. Plus, how has she done all she has at only 23-years-old? The famous “douchebag” comment heard ‘round the world is addressed fully, with two unique perspectives on the incident, how she deals with the wacky Door Bumper Clear crew and, of course, the ~goodest~ girl, Super Planet Janet, makes a couple appearances.
Maryland's finest, Timmy Hill, earned the virtual win at Texas as Round Two of the Pro Series Invitational was a bit cleaner, but albeit more realistic. As iRacing continues to take over the NASCAR landscape, Davey chats with the voice of iRacing, specifically the eNASCAR Coca-Cola iRacing Series, Evan Posocco (15:15). The two discuss the rapid ascension of iRacing in the racing community, Evan's unorthodox introduction to NASCAR, how he got started announcing races, moving from Canada to Las Vegas and attending UNLV. Could an iRacing driver make it to the national series AND have success? Plus, What does the future look like for the sport virtually?
As the sports world remains on hold due to coronavirus, NASCAR and iRacing have joined forces to give a sense of normalcy back to the industry. Davey provides an update from NASCAR President Steve Phelps on the situation and recaps the virtual race at Homestead, won by Denny Hamlin, before welcoming on Ryan Vargas (18:10). The two dive into how eTruck Series Night in America came to be, why it was so successful in a short period of time, whether we'll see another edition of it in the near future and more. Plus, how his roller coaster of a racing career, including some dark times, has helped him learn how to push through in the face of adversity, chicken nuggie talk and more.
Davey briefly recaps Joey Logano's win at Phoenix, and how the tweaked aerodynamic rules package worked well at the 2020 championship venue. He then dives into how the coronavirus is affecting the sports landscape, and why NASCAR had no other choice than to postpone their events.
Bowman The Showman showed out in California, and Davey recaps Chevrolet’s sudden prominence in the Cup Series, along with Bowman’s victory. He welcomes on Ken Clapp (16:40), West Coast stock car racing pioneer, to discuss his origins in racing, how he got into promoting, working for NASCAR, why he’ll never retire and always stay involved in motorsports, why he calls racing is a democratic dictatorship, the beginnings of the West Coast Stock Car Hall of Fame, their sponsorship of race events, his thoughts on ARCA and NASCAR in general nowadays and more. Plus, a preview of the weekend festivities in Phoenix, Tony Stewart’s comeback, NextGen testing (and wrecking?) and a revamped Daytona Speedweeks for 2021.
Davey is back from Sin City to recap all the racing action that went down, from Joey Logano's second straight Vegas win, Chase Briscoe's statement performance (after a rain delay, yes, in the desert) and Kyle Busch's seventh consecutive Trucks Series win. Plus, the $100,000 bounty placed on Rowdy by Kevin Harvick, Sam Mayer doing Sam Mayer things in ARCA atThe Bullring, a preview of Auto Club and update on Ryan Newman.
From Las Vegas baggage claim and inside his rental car, Davey reflects on the somber end to Speedweeks. What was felt as Ryan Newman's crash occurred, the events that followed and miraculous news received less than 48 hours after the crash. He also touches on Denny Hamlin's Daytona 500 win and the historical significance of it and previews this weekend's festivities in Las Vegas.
On location from Speedweeks in Daytona/New Smyrna, Davey welcomes on Kyle Souza to discuss all the happenings, including Michael Self's ARCA Menards Series victory at Daytona, Sam Mayer's ARCA East victory at New Smyrna as well as "The Clash (or Crash, or Trash) that left Erik Jones beaten and battered, but in the winner's circle. Despite being kicked out of their recording space mid-episode, they push on (with ambient race car noises), preview the Daytona 500 and hit tighten this week's Lug Nuts.
Breathe easy, party people: it’s ~officially~ race week! Before previewing The Clash at Daytona to kick off racing in 2020, Davey recaps all the Silly Season moves that went down this off-season, including a plethora of new faces in new places. He then chats with Hailie Deegan (17:30), Ford’s newest development driver for DGR-Crosley in the ARCA Menards Series. The two discuss the whirlwind couple weeks before and after announcing her future plans, traveling to and from California, Daytona and Charlotte constantly, feelings once when announcement was public, how late the deal actually got finalized, why including some IMSA starts was important to her and Ford, her time in the K&N Pro Series, reflecting on her time with Toyota, where her mindset of not rushing up the ladder originated, realistic expectations for this season, courting companies for sponsorship herself, the importance of social media and more. Lastly, Davey looks ahead to “The Clash” and Speedweeks in Florida before tightening those Lug Nuts.
New year, new decade, same Victory Lane! Davey rings in 2020 with his conversation with Brittney Zamora (3:40), who just finished her rookie season in what's now known as the ARCA Menards Series West. The two touch on her rookie campaign, failing at golf (and what role birds played a part in said failing), her rapid ascension through the northwest racing scene, being at the track at four days (!) old, being a national tap dancing champion and more.
And that's a wrap! The Cup, Xfinity and Truck Series champions have been crowned as Homestead-Miami Speedway played host to Championship 4 weekend. Three repeat champions with interesting storylines to each. Davey recaps it all as we hear from all Championship 4 contenders from each series. Plus, the G.O.A.T. is calling it a career after 2020 and more silly season news.
In an sound-bite heavy episode, Davey reviews what was the penultimate race weekend of the year in Phoenix, including Denny Hamlin's statement victory, why his mindset makes him the championship favorite and the changes needed before NASCAR returns to ISM Raceway in 2020. He also recaps the K&N Pro Series West finale that saw Ty Gibbs win the race and Derek Kraus clinch the championship. Plus, a Xfinity and Gander Outdoors Truck Series look-back of Phoenix, extensive preview of Homestead-Miami Speedway and Championship 4 weekend as well as Lug Nuts of the Week.
Davey recaps Kevin Harvick's dominant Texas performance which punched his ticket to the Championship 4 for the fifth time in the last six seasons. He also touches on the national series penultimate event at ISM Raceway in Phoenix, the K&N West finale and hits on Lug Nuts of the Week, including Roger Penske's acquisition of IMS and IndyCar.
Davey is on Cloud Nine (and never getting off) as the Washington Nationals are World Series champions! But he's here to talk NASCAR, as Martin Truex Jr. dominates Martinsville and Derek Kraus dominated Kern. He welcomes on Zach Hamilton to chat about the Cup playoffs, whether fights should be every man for himself or driver-on-driver only and the two give their Championship 4 predictions. He briefly previews Texas before hitting on Lug Nuts of the Week.
Davey recaps the chaotic ending to the Round of 12 cutoff race at Kansas Speedway, which saw Brad Keselowski eliminated and Denny Hamlin deliver. He chats (and laughs) at length with Gander Outdoors Truck Series driver Ben Rhodes (8:10). They delve into his start in racing, driving a late model for Marcos Ambrose (and the stories that come along with it), his 2014 K&N Pro Series East title campaign with Turner Scott Motorsports, why his struggles with JR Motorsports in the Xfinity Series made him appreciate that K&N success more and allowed for some self-reflection, winning at his home track of Kentucky, finding a home at ThorSport Racing in the Truck Series and “If King Ben Ruled The World.” Plus, a preview of Martinsville and Kern County as well as Lug Nuts of the Week.
Davey relives the Holy Bajeezus that was Talladega, including Ryan Blaney's win in a photo finish and Brendan Gaughan's flip. He also recaps K&N West action from Roseville, as Jagger Jones earned his first career victory. He then chats with current Gander Outdoors Truck Series rookie Harrison Burton (22:15) about the influence family has had on his racing, his rivalry turned friendship with Todd Gilliland, learning from Kyle Busch in Trucks, his short/long term goals and more. He then briefly previews the Round of 12 cutoff race at Kansas and hits on Lug Nuts of the Week.
After recapping a relatively uneventful weekend at Dover that saw Kyle Larson snap a 75-race winless streak, Davey welcomes on NASCAR Cup Series veteran David Ragan (21:00). The two chat about why now is the right time to retire from full-time racing, what his future behind the wheel looks like, how young he actually is, his two wins in Cup, why he was "stupid" in his earlier years, replacing Mark Martin at Roush Fenway, leaving a legacy in the sport and more. Plus, a preview of Talladega and All American and Lug Nuts of the Week.
Davey recaps the chaos that was the ROVAL, including Chase Elliott's legendary celebration and the playoff field shrinking to 12. He also recaps Derek Kraus' Meridian triumph, Jagger Jones' revenge vow, Josh Fanopoulos' career night and more. He then welcomes on JR Motorsports Xfinity Series driver Noah Gragson (28:00) to discuss how he got his start in racing in Las Vegas, what the turning point in his career was, his Snowball Derby victory (and the shenanigans that followed), puking after wins and more. He then briefly previews Dover, the K&N East season finale, the 2020 ARCA/K&N merger and hits on Lug Nuts of the Week.
Davey recaps the Joe Gibbs Racing dominance from Richmond…until it was taken away from them. He also touches on Full Throttle Weekend from New Hampshire before welcoming on Chris Buescher (26:00) for an extended conversation. The two chat about meeting his wife on craigslist (?), when racing became a profession and not a hobby, embracing the Chad persona, reliving his ARCA and Xfinity series days, why he was confused when he won the title in 2015, his Pocono win in 2016, the efforts with JTG Daugherty Racing, specifically the consistency factor, and more. Plus, a preview of the ROVAL and Meridian, more Silly Season moves and Lug Nuts of the Week.
This is a big one, folks! Davey is back from Las Vegas and recaps the Cup Series playoff opener, which saw Martin Truex Jr. remind the field he still is a contender. He also touches on the Xfinity and Gander Outdoors Truck Series events, including ThorSport Racing’s engine woes. He then welcomes on the people's champ, Matt DiBenedetto (31:40). The two discuss his move to Wood Brothers Racing for 2020, being universally adored in the NASCAR world, his journey to this point, why the hate for Bob Leavine and Leavine Family Racing is unjust, why his dogs name is Brian and more. He then briefly previews the weekend at Richmond and New Hampshire before hitting on Lug Nuts of the Week.
Davey recaps Kevin Harvick’s dominant Brickyard 400 performance before previewing the 2019 playoffs with his dad (7:55, including a cameo from his mom. He briefly touches on Las Vegas this weekend before hitting on Lug Nuts of the Week.
Davey touches on Erik Jones' Southern 500 victory from Darlington before welcoming on Joe Gibbs Racing Xfinity Series driver Brandon Jones (8:55). The two discuss the racing scene in his hometown of Atlanta, having Cale Gale as an influence, being the ultimate outdoors guy, visiting an Air Force Base, enjoying his best season of his career to date, expectations for himself and more. He then previews the Brickyard 400 from Indianapolis and hits on Lug Nuts of the Week.
Davey is back from St. Louis and recaps the K&N Pro Series combination event from Gateway, including Spencer Davis’ first win in over three years, the Hailie Deegan/Todd Souza beef, Chase Cabre’s heartbreak and more. He chats with JR Motorsports Xfinity Series driver Michael Annett (31:25) about how he and his family got into racing, why ice hockey was a big part of his life growing up, racing and being friends with Dale Jr., dealing with his lack of performance while his teammates were winning championships, how his win at Daytona changed things and much more. Then, he preview Darlington’s Throwback Weekend and hits on Lug Nuts of the Week.
The Davey Double is complete, as he’s back from Bristol and Evergreen to recap what went down in the K&N Pro Series. He also touches on the Cup, Xfinity and Truck events from Thunder Valley, including Matt DiBenedetto stealing the hearts of everybody, before welcoming on Matt Tifft (39:05). The two discuss his diet, life three years after brain surgery, his fiancee, driving for a plethora of owners, the jump from Xfinity to Cup and more. He then previews the tripleheader weekend of racing and hits on Lug Nuts of the Week.
Davey recaps the action at Michigan, where Kevin Harvick won the race but Keelan Harvick stole the show. Plus, the Truck Series playoff field is set. He chats with GMS Racing Xfinity Series winner John Hunter Nemechek (17:20) about fitness, grandma being his biggest fan, a battle in the Allison Legacy Series with Kyle Busch at IRP, racing with no sponsorship, one of many lessons his father, Joe, taught him about working on his own cars, his dust-up with Cole Custer in Canada, being a part of Drivers Edge Development and more. He then previews Bristol and Evergreen (#DaveyDouble), hits on Lug Nuts of the Week and reads listener reviews.
Davey recaps the first-time winner filled weekend at both Watkins Glen and Eldora, as NASCAR's top four series were in action. He chats with Cup Series veteran Landon Cassill (26:45) about how he won four championship rings at Hendrick Motorsports, the story behind his Twitter header photo, growing up in Iowa, racing for StarCom, the business side of NASCAR and more. Lastly, he previews Michigan and Mid-Ohio before hitting on Lug Nuts of the Week.
Davey recaps the racing action from Iowa Speedway, where Sam Mayer showed the K&N Pro Series who's boss and Chase Briscoe capitalized late on Christopher Bell's strategy misplay. He also touches on Denny Hamlin's fifth Pocono win, previews Watkins Glen and explains who Iowa is the most boring state in the U.S.
Davey survived the New Hampshire heat and relives the nail-biting finish that saw Kevin Harvick earn his first victory of 2019 (1:05). He talks to most of the top 10 finishers, including what Denny Hamlin would've done differently to get the win. He also touches on Chase Cabre being hotter than ever in the K&N Pro Series East (25:00), gives a preview of Pocono and Iowa and hits on Lug Nuts of the Week.
Davey recaps the thrilling finish between brothers at Kentucky Speedway, touches on Cole Custer's Xfinity dominance, Tyler Ankrum's first-career Truck Series win and previews New Hampshire.
How the hell did Justin Haley and Spire Motorsports win a Cup race? Davey breaks down the biggest upset in NASCAR history from Daytona. He also touches on Kaulig Racing's banner night, punctuated by Ross Chastain's Xfinity Series victory, previews Kentucky Speedway and hits on Lug Nuts of the Week.
Davey recaps Derek Kraus' Douglas County Speedway dominance, leading all 150 laps. He also touches on Alex Bowman's first career victory at Chicago before welcoming on some of his non-NASCAR friends (26:30) to get their thoughts on what it would take for them to watch the sport on a consistent basis (this is the fun part, party people).
Davey went to Sonoma, got sunburnt, drank some wine, fell in love with San Francisco, was just as confused at the K&N Pro Series West race as you were and was just as disappointed in the Cup race as you were. He hits on a brief Chicagoland and Roseburg preview this weekend before tightening some Lug Nuts.
Davey recaps the racing we saw in Iowa, including Ross Chastain’s disqualification, Johnny Sauter’s suspension following his dust-up with Austin Hill and Christopher Bell’s butt-whopping. He chats with Xfinity Series regular Ryan Sieg (14:40-25:15) on his 2019 season, racing with a limited budget, what life is like racing as an underdog and more. He then previews the K&N Pro Series West and Cup Series in Sonoma before hitting on Lug Nuts of the Week.
K&N in Colorado was a “Holy Bejesus” to the highest degree. Davey hits on Hailie Deegan’s move on Derek Kraus to win in Dacono and whether it was fair play or not. He talks with Deegan following the third win of her career (4:15), her father Brian Deegan on the 150-lapper (12:00), team owner Bill McAnally on his conflicting emotions (16:00), home-town hero Kody Vanderwal on his runner-up finish (18:30), Todd Souza (21:45), Brittney Zamora (25:30), and Jagger Jones (27:45). He also recaps Monday action at Michigan, where Joey Logano dominated to the win, hits on Lug Nuts of the Week and appreciates Greg Biffle for doin’ it to ‘em in the Truck Series at Texas.
Full of fried chicken and ribs from Memphis, Davey recaps Chase Cabre's first-ever K&N Pro Series win from Tennessee (1:10), including why Sam Mayer and Max McLaughlin aren't his biggest fans, Derek Kraus running for points in K&N East, Todd Gilliland's response to Kyle Busch's comments and more. He also laughs at Kyle Busch's hate for the p-word (25:45), previews Michigan and Colorado and hits on Lug Nuts of the Week.
Davey welcomes on his dad (1:25) to recap The Greatest Day in Racing, from Monaco to Indianapolis to Charlotte and everything that came along with it. He briefly previews the weekend festivities at Pocono and Memphis before breaking into a British accent and Tottenham Hotspur pump-up speech (COYS) ahead of the Champions League final (36:20) and hits on Lug Nuts of the Week.
How about that All-Star Race? Davey recaps the festivities from Charlotte, where Kyle Larson won $1 million with the help of a YEET from Kevin Harvick. He also touches on the fight between Clint Bowyer and Ryan Newman, previews the greatest day in motorsports and hits on Lug Nuts of the Week.
Davey is back (and relatively uninjured) from Arizona following more K&N Pro Series Twin 100s. He details his experience climbing (and falling down) Camelback Mountain in Phoenix, recaps the action from Tucson Speedway, including interviews from drivers, as Derek Kraus dominated and touches on the show we saw from Kansas Speedway. He then previews the All-Star Race from Charlotte and hits on Lug Nuts of the Week.
Davey’s South Boston-Dover Double is COMPLETE! He’s back after watching 600 laps of racing to recap it all for you with exclusive audio from SoBo and Delaware. Tanner Gray and Derek Kraus hoisted trophies in the K&N Pro Series East Twin 100s, and some feelings were hurt along the way (3:00-24:30). Plus, Martin Truex Jr. slays the Monster Mile on a Monday, while Kyle Busch and Kevin Harvick weren’t too pleased with the rules package (24:30-43:40). Was it hard to pass? Find out for yourself. He then previews this upcoming weekend in Tucson and Kansas (43:50-48:50) and hits on Lug Nuts of the Week (48:50), including (what will be) the most “lit and turnt af” diecast to ever be produced.
Davey Segal recaps the whale of a race we saw at Talladega Superspeedway, as Chase Elliott earned Chevrolet's first win if 2019. He welcomes Justin Allgaier onto the show (10:10) to chat about his incredible 2018 season, relationship with crew chief Jason Burdett, his not-so-known nickname and more. He then previews the upcoming races at Dover and South Boston before hitting on Lug Nuts of the Week.
No racing, no problem! Davey Segal chats with Team Penske Xfinity Series driver Austin Cindric (2:55) about continuity in racing, dealing with haters, dispelling the "silver spoon" narrative surrounding him and much more. He also briefly previews Talladega Superspeedway and hits on Lug Nuts of the Week.
Davey Segal recaps the weekend that was at Richmond Raceway as Martin Truex Jr. snapped his 80-race winless streak on short tracks. Is he secretly MTJ’s good luck charm? Plus, he talks with top 10 finishers on Saturday night and Elliott Sadler, who made his return to Xfinity Series competition. He then chats with Chase Briscoe (26:30) about sprint car racing, getting started in stock cars, the crazy story of him almost quitting, driving for his childhood idol Tony Stewart, his new nickname (see episode title) and much more. To close, he hits on Lug Nuts of the Week and tells you why Jimmie Johnson may be the most under appreciated athlete of this generation.
Davey Segal recaps the weekend that was at Bristol Motor Speedway. Would Kurt have really wrecked his brother Kyle for the win? Plus, Sam Mayer flexes his 15-year-old muscles and dominates the K&N Pro Series East weekend. He then chats with Truck Series champion, Cup Series winner and (unfortunately) Michigan Wolverines fan Erik Jones (31:55) about growing up in Michigan, his dog Oscar, being nicknamed "That Jones Boy," contract extensions with Joe Gibbs Racing and more. He then previews Richmond Raceway and hits on Lug Nuts of the Week.
In this packed episode, Davey is joined by longtime friend, internet sensation and businessman for Chip Ganassi Racing Elijah Burke to break down the K&N Pro Series West race from Irwindale Speedway (including the photo finish and reaction from the top three) and the Cup Series race from Texas Motor Speedway. He also chats with 2016 Gander Outdoors Truck Series champion Johnny Sauter (30:30) and DGR Crosley's Natalie Decker (41:30) before previewing Bristol Motor Speedway and hitting on Lug Nuts of the Week.
Davey Segal discusses Brad Keselowski’s dominant Martinsville butt-kicking and eating 15 hot dogs in his first trip to The Paperclip. Plus, Chase Elliott, Kyle Busch, Ryan Blaney and more weigh in on what they could have done (if anything) to catch the No. 2. Then, he discusses the 2020 Cup Series schedule (26:20), including the season finale switching locations and a big shakeup in the playoffs. He then welcomes on 2017 K&N Pro Series East champion and current Truck Series driver Tyler Ankrum for an off-the-walls conversation (38:00) and Irwindale Speedway track president and operator Tim Huddleston (50:00) ahead of this weekend’s K&N West race. Finally, he previews Texas and Irwindale before hitting on Lug Nuts of the Week, including NASCAR’s tweak to qualifying.
Davey Segal tells you why there’s no need to compare Kyle Busch and Richard Petty’s 200 wins. He also breaks down the qualifying debacle before chatting with Ryan Preece (20:15) about his Daytona 500 experience, keeping his short track and Modified roots, why that’s so important, working on his own cars, the transition to the Cup Series, his lack of a plan when he left JD Motorsports and more. He also previews this weekend’s races at Martinsville Speedway and hits on Lug Nuts of the Week.
Aaaand we back! In Episode 2 of Victory Lane (2.0), Davey Segal puts a bow on everything that went down (including the fight, of course) in Phoenix at ISM Raceway and Kyle Busch closing in on win No. 200. He chats with Cup Series driver and “bro” in the NASCAR garage, Corey LaJoie, (23:05) about his face being on his car, growing up with a famous last name, success not coming easy, beard oil, Lady Gaga and more. Davey also hits on the NASCAR Hall of Fame nominees announced this week and why he has beef with the process, previews Auto Club and hits on the Lug Nuts of the Week.
Welcome back, it's like you never left! On the very first episode of Victory Lane (2.0), Davey Segal outlines his aspirations and goals for the show, recaps the debut of the 2019 rules package at Las Vegas Motor Speedway and briefly previews the festivities at ISM Raceway.
Welcome to the place everybody wants to be: Victory Lane! The second iteration of this podcast is hosted by Davey Segal, a multimedia NASCAR journalist. Be sure to hit that subscribe button to get episodes automatically downloaded to you every week. See you in Victory Lane!