Episodes

Get ready to energize your understanding of the metals that power our lives, as we sit down with Greg Reimer, the trailblazing CEO of Surge Battery Metals. This episode is a treasure trove of insights into the electrifying world of lithium mining – the lifeblood of EV batteries. Greg takes us on exploration of the Nevada North Lithium Project, revealing why this venture is a potential game-changer for U.S. manufacturing. We uncover the complex world of lithium extraction and its pivotal role in ...

Unlock the secrets of vehicle longevity with Michael Thomas from Pennzoil, as we explore the critical role of synthetic motor oil in modern engines. Get ready to challenge everything you thought you knew about oil viscosity and discover what those oil weight numbers truly signify. From expert advice on maintaining your ride in frosty conditions to essential tips for car owners, this discussion is your key to ensuring peak performance in any weather. Whether you're a seasoned gearhead or a casual...

Buckle up for a journey through the ins and outs of the transportation world with Ann Reinke, the astute CEO of the Transportation Intermediaries Association. We navigate the twists and turns of the supply chain, especially as it zooms through the auto industry, and peek into the not-so-distant future where automated trucks could revolutionize our roads. We're tackling the big questions: Will safety and efficiency get a turbo boost? What's driving the changes behind California's zero-emission EV...

Brace yourselves for an exhilarating journey through the Houston AutoBoative Show with none other than Ben Miller, the maestro of the Classic Car Corral, guiding us through the stormy weather forecast and into the heart of classic car transportation. Listen and you'll be privy to the lengths that enthusiasts go to shield their prized classics from the elements. Revel with us in the peculiar charm of vintage autos, as we uncover the delightful quirks that set them apart—imagine cruising with a '5...

Get ready to conquer the cold with EV expert Richard 'Buzz' Smith, the EVangelist, as he joins us to discuss the icy challenges electric vehicle owners face when mercury drops. We're talking about the recent freeze that left Tesla drivers in Chicago out in the cold, literally, tackling the impact of frigid weather on charging efficiency and battery life. But it's not all snow and gloom—dive into the heart of the EV market as we address the unexpected downturn in sales and the uphill battle with ...

Unlock the secrets to cutting vehicle ownership costs with Kevin Fitzpatrick from Opus IVS, who joins us to unveil the power of diagnostic software in modern cars. As we navigate through anecdotes of boating escapades and local sports fervor, we promise you a session brimming with insights that could save you money on your car maintenance. Imagine diagnosing your car like a pro, avoiding hefty repair bills, and even sailing smoothly through state inspections—this conversation is just the tip of ...

Discover the inside track on the most prestigious automotive accolades with our special guest, the renowned Jack Nerad, as he takes us behind the scenes of the North American Car and Truck of the Year awards. Peel back the curtain on what makes a vehicle stand out to the judges, and get Jack's unique take, drawn from his multifaceted career including writing for Rodney Dangerfield. We also cast a spotlight on an unexpected cold snap in LA, hinting at the larger narrative of electrical grid chall...

Discover the twists and turns of the Houston Automotive Show where RoShelle Salinas walks us through the unexpected shifts in the exhibition landscape. Feel the pulse of the showroom floor as we discuss major brands like Ford, Chevy, and Toyota holding the fort with new attractions, despite Stellantis brands bowing out of indoor drives. In a candid conversation, we dissect the implications of this change and muse over the potential of local dealers to step into the limelight. Plus, get a whiff ...

When the roar of an engine doubles as a heartbeat, you know you're in for a thrilling ride. Strap in as we catch up with Antron Brown, three-time NHRA Top Fuel champion, gearing up to ignite the 2024 season with insider details on his ABM Accelerate Program, designed to propel novice speedsters to professional pinnacles. Along with new sponsorships and the shifting landscape of NHRA, we also carve out a moment to honor the towering figure of the late Don Schumacher. His zest for life, whether he...

Feel the pulse of innovation and ambition as we gear up with the Loras College Racing Club team, a dynamic group of students whose dreams revolve around the revving engines and the checkered flags of motorsport. Today, JJ, Cam, Jacob, and Jake take us on a thrilling ride through their educational pursuits, from the classrooms of mechanical engineering and computer science right onto the gritty tracks of the Baja SAE project. They candidly share the exhilaration of blending theoretical knowledge ...

Join us as we peel back the layers on the ballooning costs of car insurance with Divya Sangam from Lending Tree. With an eye-opening average rate increase of 12.6% sweeping the nation, we uncover some of the factors driving this inflation—from escalating claim costs and the impact of climate disasters to the spike in catalytic converter thefts. You'll learn why the expected pandemic savings never materialized in consumers' wallets and how state insurance boards are entangled with inflation in gr...

Uncover the secrets of the automotive supply chain labyrinth with our expert guest Sunderesh Heragu, as he paints a picture of the intricacies involved, from the multilevel supplier to the financial tightrope walked by smaller suppliers. Discover how tariffs can send shockwaves through this complex system, possibly leading to steeper prices that hit our wallets. Plus, enjoy a lighter moment with an anecdote of a wine mishap—proof that even in the world of serious industry talk, there's room for ...

Ever wondered what it would feel like to slip behind the wheel of a compact that breaks the mold? Buckle up, as we take the fully redesigned 2024 Subaru Impreza RS for a spin, a vehicle that's tossing its sedan legacy to the curb in favor of a hatchback — or should we say 'hot rod compact wagon' — revolution. Let's just say the traditional hatchback has been given a run for its money with the Impreza's sharp new look, complete with a lower front end and lights that dare you to look away. And for...

Eager to know how the 2023 Ford Bronco Heritage Edition stacks up against the legends of the road? Mike Marrs takes a look at this nostalgic beast with a modern twist. In an episode packed with hands-on experience, Mike breaks down the Bronco's standout features—from its eye-catching race red exterior with a white removable top to the cozy heated plaid seats. He shares the nuances of the two-door model's design that pays tribute to the iconic original, right down to the blast-from-the-past manua...

Navigating the chaotic aftermath of a car crash can be as befuddling as a corn maze at night, but fear not, because Sergeant Steven Woodard of the Texas DPS State Troopers and is lighting the way with essential crash scene wisdom. Our talk isn't all caution tape and whirring sirens, though—we also peel back the layers on the recent spike in traffic fatalities in Texas and dissect the role of media during police standoffs, all the while keeping it real with personal stories. Buckle up as we share...

Ready to unlock the secrets of your future ride's reliability? Join us as we sit down with Consumer Reports' very own Mike Quincy to decode the latest findings on what makes a car truly dependable. This isn't about the dazzle of a fresh-off-the-lot shine; we're talking hardcore evidence from a growing list of owner participants sharing information on their vehicles. Whether you're curious about the resilience of hybrids and electrics or simply seeking a trustworthy commuter, you'll get the unva...

Unleash your inner speed demon with expert insights from road racing guru Richard Tomlin as we explore the thrill of SCCA road racing and autocross. Let your passion for high-speed adventure find its home on the track, where legends cut their teeth and everyday drivers sharpen their skills. This episode doesn't just share the secret sauce to joining the racing community; it hands you the keys to a world where tire pressure and alignment are not just maintenance chores, but the alchemy of victory...

Rev up your engines and get ready to join us in the latest episode where we crank up our automotive expertise with the help of John Gray from Gulf Coast Auto Shield. Ever wonder how to keep your car’s wheels looking like they just rolled off the showroom floor? Well, John's going to share the secret sauce to fighting off that stubborn brake dust, and trust me, it's a game-changer. With springtime drives calling our name, we're all about keeping our rides in pristine condition – and that means di...

Strap in for a wild ride with rally enthusiasts Andy and Mercedes Lilienthal, with Crankshaft Culture, as they take us behind the scenes of beginning their preparations for the grueling Alcan 5000 winter rally. With a no-holds-barred approach, they reveal what it takes to conquer a 5000-mile gauntlet in the grip of Arctic temperatures, sharing the pulse-pounding excitement and the meticulous preparation needed for such an extreme motorsport event. The Lilienthal's also give us a glimpse into the...

Remember the time you tried to set the gap on your spark plugs and ended up with more grease on your shirt than on the car? Ah, those were the days, and in our latest episode, we take a walk down memory lane to chuckle over the automotive tools that now rest in peace, thanks to modern technology. From the clink of distributor wrenches to the hum of electric motors, this is one episode where past meets future, and every gearhead gets a front-row seat. Now, let's shift gears and talk turkey—and b...

When Nik Miles joined us on the podcast, we found ourselves swimming in stories that span from the heartland of America to the scenic West Coast, illustrating how cars and canines can weave together a tapestry of hope. Our journey through Operation Frodo unveils a Christmas narrative that's sure to warm your heart, highlighting the collaborative efforts of Animal Rescue Rigs, volunteers, fellow journalists, and the automotive industry. We dive into the emotional cross-country mission of transpor...

Rev up your engines and join our trackside talk as we slide into the dusty turns of Texas dirt track racing with the voice of the track, Rodney Rodriguez. We'll pull back the curtain on why the roar of engines and spray of dirt keeps crowds coming back for more, and how the sport's rich history is faring against today's challenges. As Don Armstrong shares tales from behind the wheel of the rugged yet refined 2023 Land Rover Defender, you'll get a firsthand account of balancing luxury with the ca...

Ready to ride the wave of year-end car savings? Let's peel out of the dealership lot with money still in our pockets, as we cruise through the latest buzz on unbeatable car deals with US News' very own John Vincent. From the allure of 0% financing to the sweet scent of cashback on models like the Nissan Murano, this episode is your GPS to navigating the deals that have auto enthusiasts' engines revving. We're not just talking sales—we're leasing into the future, unveiling why that Kia Forte leas...

Gear up for a hot rod sleigh ride through the ultimate car enthusiast's winter wonderland, as we unveil a treasure trove of last-minute Christmas gift ideas that'll put your holiday shopping into overdrive. Forget about the night before Christmas; this is the scramble you'll actually enjoy, with gift suggestions ranging from muscle machine calendars to classic Mustang tote bags that are sure to make any auto aficionado's heart race. Get a sneak peek at the niche finds from Hobby Lobby's automoti...