Speed Secrets Podcast

In this week's episode of Speed Secret Podcast, I go solo discuss a lifetime in motorsport and the most valuable things I learned along the way. I dive into the story of how I got involved in this wonderful sport, the relationship between driving experience and when you should begin modifying and tuning your car, focusing on performance rather than results, why adaptability is more important than being fast, how you can improve your ability to sense the limits of your car and tires, and the advanced techniques the best drivers use! Follow Speed Secrets on social media to keep up with the latest! https://www.instagram.com/rossbentley/?hl=en https://www.facebook.com/Drivercoach/ Want to be in the know? If you're not already on the Speed Secrets mailing list, sign up here to be the first to hear about new things coming out, promotions and our annual sale, and updates! https://speedsecrets.com/

On this week's episode of Speed Secrets Podcast, Craig Watkins sits down to discuss how he became a race car engineer, how the Flying Lizards race team came about, the process of engineering and tuning a car's handling, and the right questions to ask to figure out what your car needs. He also dishes about what it's like to work with drivers such as Johannes van Overbeek, Patrick Long, Jörg Bermeister, Timo Bernhard, and other factory Porsche drivers. Craig's Speed Secret: Use a tire gauge and notebook, then data acquisition and video. Craig Watkins is considered one of the top Porsche race engineers in the world. Watkins has been engineering and racing cars since he was a teenager. He began off-road racing in 1976 and competed in a Class10 car in the SCORE series from 1983 to 1990. Racing with Greg Aronson, Watkins won nearly every major off-road race including the Parker Dam 400, the Baja 1000 and the Frontier 500; he won the SCORE points championship in 1987. In the early 90's Watkins began racing in local Porsche club events, where he met driver Johannes van Overbeek who would introduce him to World Challenge GT racing and the Lizards. Watkins has been Flying Lizard chief engineer since its inception in 2003. Check out Craig below! https://www.smartracingproducts.com @craig.watkins.ca https://tractivesuspension.com

In this week's episode of Speed Secrets podcast, I am joined by Clay Millican, NHRA Top Fuel drag racer. We discuss the mental game of drag racing, driving 11,000 horsepower, how to steer a Top Fuel dragster, the importance of reaction times, and all that goes into driving a race in less than 4 seconds! Clay Millican is a 6-time World Champion Top Fuel drag racer, having won IHRA championships from 2001 to 2006. He's won 3 NHRA events, and his top speed is 335.23 MPH, and an ET of 3.628 seconds. Clay's Speed Secret: Focus on what you want. Check out Clay below: https://www.straightlinestrategy.com/clay-millican

On this week's episode of Speed Secrets Podcast, James Hinchcliffe joins me to discuss how "the Major of Hinchtown" came about, where the "fun meter" is pointing these days when you get in a race car, how to regain focus using mental triggers, the importance of being able to adapt (and why one style is not good enough), and using a negative, "cup half empty" approach to winning. James Hinchcliffe is a Canadian race car driver best known for competing in the IndyCar Series. He currently competes part-time in the No. 29 Genesys/Petro Canada Lubricants Honda for Andretti Autosport. James has won six races to date for Andretti Autosport and Schmidt Peterson Motorsports.. Check out the links below to follow James! http://www.hinchtown.com IG/FB/TW: @hinchtown

On this week's part 2 episode of Speed Secrets Podcast, Michael Zimicki and I carry on busting myths and ranting about the way too many drivers and coaches get caught up in the thinking that everything something we say should be taken as gospel. Mike's speed secret: Never stop learning. Mike has coached drivers such as Graham Rahal, Danica Patrick, Jon Fogarty, Ryan Hunter-Reay, and many, many more big names; he's also coached drivers you've never heard of. The bottom line is he's one of the best. Check out Mike at: https://www.sliderulemotorsports.com IG: @zimicki Facebook

On this week's part 1 episode of Speed Secrets Podcast, I sit down with friend and coach, Michael Zimicki, to bust or confirm some of the most common driving myths! Mike has coached drivers such as Graham Rahal, Danica Patrick, Jon Fogarty, Ryan Hunter-Reay, and many, many more big names; he's also coached drivers you've never heard of. The bottom line is he's one of the best. Check out Mike at: https://www.sliderulemotorsports.com IG: @zimicki Facebook

On this week's episode of Speed Secret podcast, Peter Krause (fellow coach and data guru) joins me to talk all things driving fast – consistently! We get into why driving the limit is more important than the line, raising corner entry speed, and leading the throttle existing corners. Peter's Speed Secret: Drive every corner, every lap, as quickly as you can. Peter specialties include individual and privately tailored analysis and optimization programs for sports car drivers and racers; data analysis equipment sales and training; supply and support for prep shops and teams for AiM Sports and Video VBOX equipment. A multi-time championship-winning racing driver, award-winning mechanic and automotive historian, Krause understands and can communicate effectively both the psychology AND methodology of "going fast," with more than thirty-five years of experience and a library of historical data to draw on. Check out Peter here: www.peterkrause.net www.gofasternow.com

On this week's episode of Speed Secrets podcast, Adam Spence (architect leader at Garmin, and racer) joins me to discuss Garmin's new data tool, the Catalyst. The Catalyst really is as cool as it sounds, and helped me shave 0.9 seconds off my best lap time. Plus, Adam explains what Area 51 at Garmin is! In addition to his role as Product Architect Leader – Area 51 at Garmin, Adam is a racer and track instructor. Check out the Catalyst here!

On this week's episode of Speed Secrets Podcast, I talk with Dr. Jerry Lynch, author of my all-time favorite book, Thinking Body, Dancing Mind. As an expert in Eastern philosophy and sports psychology, his insights and guidance have had a major impact on my life, helping me perform better as a driver and coach. We discuss what being a champion really means, how Jerry's teachings were used by Phil Jackson when coaching the Chicago Bulls, L.A. Lakers, Michael Jordan, and Kobe Bryant, and his human growth and performance consulting group, Way of Champions. Check out Way of Champions here: https://www.wayofchampions.com Jerry combines Eastern thought, Native American tradition, Christian mysticism and western psychology to help create focus, mental talent, spiritual dexterity, inspiration and empowerment not only for competitive events but to learn self awareness, confidence and how to be the best version of yourself each day. Jerry has been recognized as one of the top five in his profession nationwide. He has worked with teams, coaches and athletes in the NBA, Pro Lacrosse, National Soccer League, basketball, lacrosse, soccer, tennis, golf and other sports at many top universities. Jerry has a doctorate in psychology from Penn State University, and has done extensive post-doctoral work in the area of philosophy, Taoist and Buddhist thought, comparative religions, leadership development, and performance enhancement. He is the author of 14 books in as many as 10 languages on coaching, leadership, spirituality of sport, warrior spirit, peak performance, and sports psychology.

On this week's Speed Secret Podcast, Cathy McCause Fuss joins me to talk about why she got involved with running a race series, how to make a series popular, how to make endurance racing safe, her sponsors (Hankook and Hawk brakes), and giving back through charitable events. She shares about Lucky Dog races and Heroes Motorsports race teams for veterans. Cathy's speed secret: Be able to see! Cathy has been involved in endurance racing since driving in the very first Lemons races at Altamont Motorsports Park, then co-founding ChumpCar & being their executive VP for 6 years, partnering with my Chump colleague Joey Todd at WRL when we started Lucky Dog. All this after leaving 25 years in software, most recently as VP Global Marketing for Oracle Utilities. As North America's fasting growing grassroots endurance series boasting over 600 teams & 3,000 drivers, Lucky Dog Racing League host events at bucket list track such as at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca, Charlotte Motor Speedway, Sonoma Raceway, Willow Springs International Raceway, Utah Motorsports Park, The Ridge Motorsports Park, Buttonwillow Raceway, Pacific Raceways, Thunderhill Raceway Park, Oregon Raceway Park, Portland International Raceway, Spokane County Raceway, Chuckwalla Valley Raceway, Canada's exclusive Area 27 and the Wild Dogs Ensenada Grand Prix on the streets of Ensenada, Baja, Mexico. The 2020 season will culminate at Thunderhill Raceway Park, Willlows CA on the 5-mile track for the Dawg Days of Thunder Championship / 1000 Miles of Thunderhill. The 2021 season will include an event at Circuit of Americas (COTA)! Check out Cathy below! https://www.racelucky.com https://www.facebook.com/raceluckydog @RaceLucky @RaceLuckyDog YouTube: Lucky Dog Racing League

On this week's Speed Secrets Podcast, Samir Abid and I get into how best to use data to help you become an even better driver, managing the driver's mind when it's too analytical and focused on data, and how to use the data from another driver to improve your own driving. We also talk about what Samir learned from having Scott Mansell of Driver61 drive his car, and what makes Lewis Hamilton so special. Samir shares about his involvement in Nike's Breaking2 and the Ineos 1:59 Challenge projects (breaking the 2-hour barrier for running a marathon)! Samir's speed secret: Once up to speed, focus on corner exit rather than late braking. Samir Abid is the founder of Your Data Driven and a Chartered Professional Motorsports and Automotive Engineer from the UK. As well as developing suspension systems for several OEMs and racing teams (including Aston Martin, Jaguar, and Multimatic), Samir has also spent the last ten years working with Olympic and professional level sports teams, and is also a keen club racer. Check out Samir below! https://www.yourdatadriven.com @YourDataDriven

On this week's Speed Secret Podcast, Jonatan Jorge joins me to discuss what's made him so successful as a coach, when a coach needs their own coach, and looking outside motorsport (at other sports) to learn how to be a better coach and driver. We also get into the misconception of looking way ahead and through the corner, the value of checkpoints, different references for different drivers, and visual pattern matching. As a bonus, Ross shares his "vision process." Jonatan's speed secret: Know yourself. Jonatan's second speed secret: Expect nothing, accept everything. Jonatan Jorge has been racing and coaching since 1991 and leads JJRD's operations, coaching philosophy and service delivery. He has made a mark in the racing world both as a driver and coach in auto racing's most highly respected series and echelons, including: - Nascar - British Formula 3 - Turkish Formula 3 - Skip Barber National and Regional Series - Formula Ford 2000 - Grand Am/Rolex Series - IRL - American LeMans - World Karting Championships - Brazilian National Karting Championships - Tens of unbroken track and race series records - Vehicle Manufacturer Events, Commercials and TV productions, and many others. Check out Jonatan below! http://www.teamjjrd.com @jjrdinc on social media

On this week's Speed Secrets Podcast, Rob Krider joins me to talk about his writing career; his novel, Cadet Blues; his "other" job as a California Highway Patrol officer; and his experience when his car caught fire. Ever wonder the similarities between racing and police driving? We get into that, too! Rob's speed secret: Drive fast enough to scare yourself once a lap; make micro-improvements; be consistent. Rob Krider is a National Champion racecar driver from the NASA Honda Challenge series and he writes the "Toolshed Engineer" column for SpeedNews magazine. He is featured in the documentary film, Double Down, about earning a podium finish at the 25 Hours of Thunderhill. Besides racing and writing, Rob earns his living as a California Highway Patrol officer. He attributes a lot of his success behind the wheel from his training at the CHP Academy. From that experience he authored the novel Cadet Blues, a humorous take on police training. Links Below: Rob Krider's book about surviving the California Highway Patrol Academy, Cadet Blues: https://www.amazon.com/Cadet-Blues-Rob-Krider/dp/1495108589 Rob Krider's documentary film about the 25 Hours of Thunderhill, Double Down: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ssY5LsQ91jY Rob Krider's archive of how-to articles on racing, RobKrider.com: http://www.robkrider.com/ Rob Krider's National Champion racing team, Double Nickel Nine Motorsports: http://www.team559.com/ Rob Krider on Instagram, KriderRacing: https://www.instagram.com/kriderracing/?hl=en

On this week's Speed Secret Podcast, John joins me to discuss some very important things in driving: self reflection, awareness, accountability, ego, and being okay saying "I don't know." John breaks down philosophy and teaching, and how "Aha!" moments are rare, but that's ok because learning is a process! We break down the traits of the best and worst drivers, and explain how having a fixed vs. growth mindset will determine your success.John Santiago: Learn How to Learn John's speed secret: Know yourself. Find ways to become aware of how you can improve.

On this week's Speed Secrets Podcast, Jeff and I discuss how to improve your race strategy decisions – what to know, what to ask, what to understand, and having patience. We also dig into his hobby business, Mesa Vista Coffee, and his love of coffee roasting! Jeff is one of the very best race car engineers in the world. He's engineered cars at every level, and every type: NASCAR, karts, club racing cars, Indy, GT and Prototypes, and even Top Fuel dragsters. But what sets Jeff apart from many engineers is how he can explain what he's doing, what a car is doing, and even how the best think. Check these out to follow Jeff's company, Mesa Vista Coffee! eBay: Mesa Vista Coffee Instagram: @mesavistacoffee Facebook: facebook.com/mesavistacoffee

On this week's episode, Danny and I discuss his background as a driver and his motorsport business, Hankook Motorsports. We talk everything tires and tackle how to find the right tire pressure for your car, how to use tire temperature, whether tires are directional or not, heat cycles, and how driving styles affect tires! Danny van Dongen is a Dutch racing driver and entrepreneur, currently competing in the MW-V6 Pickup Series. Danny's speed secret: Feel what the tires are doing and adapt your driving to them. Check these out to follow Danny: https://hankookmotorsports.com @hankookmotorsports @dannyvandongen

On this week's episode, Chris Andrews joins me to discuss how driving styles impact the handling of a car, different car setups for oval and road racing, the best passing zones at Watkins Glen, and the best books to read to learn about the best car setup and engineering. Also, a special treat, Chris shares hilarious stories about Dale Earnhardt (including what he says at a urinal). Chris's speed secret: Never stop learning. Check these out to follow Chris: Web: www.tcaellc.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tcaengineeringllc/

On this week's episode, David Williams joins me to talk about how sim racing can make you a better track day driver or racer. We dive deep to discuss Virtual Racing School, how being a pro sim racer works (where does the money come from?!), dealing with a lack of sensory input from the sim, sensing the limit in a sim, the accuracy of car setups in the sim, brain neuroplasticity and adapting to sims and real cars. Oh, and David offers sim coaching services. David's speed secret: Be deliberately willing to push beyond your ability in measured amounts. David is an Avid motorsport enthusiast with 13 years of experience and success across multiple sims with VRS Coanda Simsport. He's a hardware design engineer & racing coach for Virtual Racing School and a multiple race driver competition finalist including the 2012 GT Academy. Check these out to follow David: Twitter: @CoandaDave YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/DavidWilliamsRacing Virtual Racing School: https://virtualracingschool.com Niels Heusinkveld: https://www.youtube.com/user/niels007007

On this week's episode, Adam Jabaay joins me to discuss the best stories from the Slip Angle podcast, everything Gridlife, and eSports and sim racing. He also shares how he manages time between racing, family, and business – and where to sneak sleep in! Adam is a club racer in SCCA, NASA and Lemons, a HPDE instructor, and one of the organizers of the Gridlife events. He's also a co-host, along with Austin Cabot, on the Slip Angle podcast; in addition, they have the TrackTuned.com blog. Adam's speed secret: Work harder on your driving than you want to work. Check these out to follow Adam Slip Angle Podcast: www.tracktuned.com www.grid.life www.facebook.com/GRIDLIFEOfficial/ IG: @gridlifeofficial Twitter: @gridlifefest

Rob Wilson joins us on this week's episode to share stories about coaching F1 drivers, the importance of weight transfer, why confidence matters, and the perfect technique to turning a steering wheel. He also shares his aha! moment as a driver and a coach. Rob's speed secret: Always tell the car what's coming next. Rob Wilson is well-known as a driver coach to many current and past Formula One drivers (Kimi Raikkonen, Nico Rosberg, Valtteri Bottas), as well as working as an instructor with the Skip Barber school years ago. He's won the British Formula Ford Championship, raced in Indy Lights, IMSA prototype and GT cars, Formula 3, and even NASCAR.

On this week's episode, James Chartres joins me to talk about how he built his confidence and became one of "the oast Ones" in the competitive world of SCCA, finding the balance between being analytical and just letting go to have fun, making track notes, and turn 5 at Laguna Seca. We also dive into racing sponsorships/partnerships at the grassroots level. James races a Spec Racer Ford in the SCCA San Francisco region, runs his own team – Kanga Motorsport – and in his spare time is an aerospace engineer for NASA (or is that the other way around?!). As a club racer, James has put together some amazing marketing partnerships to help support his team, too. James' speed secret: The little changes and improvement add up. Check these out to follow James! Web: kangamotorsports.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kangamotorsports/ Instagram: @kangamotorsports Twitter: @kangamotorsportsYouTube: kangamotorsports

In this week's episode, Tom O'Gorman joins me to talk about autocross (how it helps and hurts road course driving), simulators and eSports, the ideal corning line, and making a career in racing! We also discuss why driving a bad car in bad conditions can actually be a really good thing! O'Gorman's Speed Secret: Start with well-known limits, and then push each of them by adapting references. Follow O'Gorman here: Instagram Facebook (racing) Facebook (personal)

On this week's episode, Scot Elkins joins me to discuss being COO of IMSA/ALMS and managing the merge with Grand-Am. He dishes all about the Motorsport Safety Foundation – the what and why of the HPDE instructor certification program "CERTIFIED," how the safety standards are set, and why all driving instructors should get CERTIFIED. Scot is the COO of the Motorsport Safety Foundation, as well as the race director for the Formula E series. Having spent years as a race engineer, as well as a senior official with the American Le Mans and IMSA series, he has a broad perspective on the sport, from HPDE and track day events, to major international racing. Check out MSF and the CERTIFIED program here.

On this week's Speed Secrets Podcast, Dane Cameron joins me to discuss building confidence as a race driver, how to drive a car with aerodynamic down force – how to learn to trust it and manage its traction, and the difference in driving styles between open wheel and sports cars. He also shares what it was like to get the call to drive for Roger Penske! Dane Cameron is the reigning IMSA WeatherTech champion, alongside his co-driver at Team Penske Acura, Juan Montoya. And that's a title he's won in the past, back in 2016, too. Oh, and also the IMSA GTD championship in 2014. And I think a Formula Mazda championship well before that, and… well, you get it. Dane wins a lot. Cameron's speed secret: focus on the smoothness and not over-driving – build the cornering speed, corner by corner, then lap by lap. Follow Dane Cameron: IG: @danecameron19 Twitter: @danecameron19 Facebook: www.facebook.com/danecameronmotorsports

Andrew Rains joins me on this week's episode to discuss all about data systems. We tackle how to best use your data system, the importance of understanding the "why" behind what you see on data, what data can and can't do, and more... Andrew Rains has been going to the track since he was five, has raced in Pirelli World Challenge and club racing, is the marketing director for APEX Pro, races as often as he can, and instructs/coaches drivers of all levels. Andrew's Speed Secret? If you have a data system, get familiar with how to use it as a tool, and how to read it. Contact Andrew by email if you have questions about data and/or the APEX Pro: [email protected] And follow him at: Web: https://apextrackcoach.com Facebook: @officialapexpro Instagram: @officialapexpro YouTube: APEXPro

Colin Braun joins me to talk about traveling for races, getting the balance between overthinking and not thinking enough when driving, trusting your subconscious programming to drive, and getting into the zone. We also discuss the important of always learning and never getting complacent, and what to do when you can't do what you want with your driving technique. Colin has raced and won in everything from NASCAR to IMSA. He currently drives in the Weather Tech IMSA series, as well as for CrowdStrike Racing in the SRO series. Oh - and he's been on the Speed Secrets Podcast more than anyone else! Colin's Speed Secret: PT it. Follow: Web: https://colinbraun.com IG: @colinbraun FB: https://www.facebook.com/ColinBraun TW: @colinbraun

Dave Peters joins me to talk about the world of HPDE, driving Miatas, and where driving confidence comes from. Dave founded and runs HPDEjunkie.com, a website devoted to listing HPDE events in the U.S. (and Canada soon). It's a great resource – and it's free to event organizers. They just need to contact Dave and let them know of their events. So if you know of an event, or an organizer who needs more participants, make sure it's listed on HPDEjunkie.com. Dave's Speed Secret: Build confidence in yourself and your car. For more info on HPDEjunkie.com, go to www.HPDEjunkie.com, or @HPDEjunkie on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

Travis Okulski joins me to talk about where Road & Track is headed, his racing experience and how that's contributed to where he is today, what makes drivers like Marco Andretti, Graham Rahal, and Colin Braun so great, and the future of motorsport – including Formula E. Travis is the Editor-in-Chief for Road & Track magazine. He started racing karts when he was 12, but realized that a career in motorsport – something he was committed to – was best achieved from behind the keyboard rather than the steering wheel. His job is one that most every gearhead would kill to have. Travis' Speed Secret: Eyes up. Work hard. Road & Track: Web: www.roadandtrack.comInstagram: @roadandtrack Twitter: @roadandtrackFacebook: RoadandTrack YouTube: RoadandTrack

Jim Kearney joins me to talk about what it takes to win more races, and we discuss the importance of car prep, mental prep, having triggers to get you in the right state of mind/mood, and track notes. Jim is a super-successful driver coach who raced Formula Vee himself for years before turning his attention to helping other drivers. His drivers have won multiple SCCA Runoffs championships, so he definitely knows how to help drivers win more. Jim's Speed Secret: It's all about self-belief. Trust the process. You can reach Jim by email at [email protected], and learn more at his website at https://kearneykdd.com.

Ryan Yard joins me to talk about everything from using motorsport to motivate you in other areas of your life to the creative puzzle that is driving faster. In our conversation, we talk about getting in flow, car setup, using music to trigger performance, dealing with problems, focus, discipline, and the benefits of journaling and note-taking. Ryan started in HPDE, quickly moved to wheel-to-wheel racing, and currently competes in SCCA and PCA events. He also leads a national championship. He's taken his tech background and put it to good use with his racing, but most importantly, he's used racing to motivate him to improve his health – including losing 150 pounds. Ryan's Speed Secret: focus on the process of what you do to prepare. Follow Ryan on his blog at www.ryracing.com

CJ Wilson joins me to talk about his transition from pro baseball player to race driver. We talk about the superstitions & routines baseball players rely on and how they apply to motorsport; what he learned from being a Major League Baseball pitcher that he uses in racing; how to practice with intensity; the different techniques required for an aero downforce car versus one without aero; and the overall mindset one needs to succeed. You'll love this episode – especially his description of feeling the tires when you're driving at the limit. CJ pitched in Major League Baseball for the Texas Rangers from 2005 to 2011 and the Los Angeles Angels from 2012 to 2015. He is the founder and owner of CJ Wilson Racing, which has competed in the IMSA Michelin Pilot Challenge and WeatherTech SportsCar Championship. His ultimate racing goal is to win Le Mans – and based on what you hear from him in this podcast, you can't help but believe he's going to do it. Follow CJ… Podcast: The Throttle Dogs - https://thethrottledogs.libsyn.com Instagram: @supercar_cj, or @cjwilsonphoto

Ryan Staub is back, and we're talking about the stuff many drivers don't want to talk about. You know, the stuff about risk, responsibility, waivers, liability, insurance and so on – for both drivers and instructors. But since Ryan is a racer and chief instructor for his BMW CCA chapter, we also talk about driving. Ryan is serious car/driving geek first, but also an insurance expert, as he runs the Lockton Motorsports insurance program. So, he understands the risks and legal issues associated with what we do, but then goes out on the track and drives fast! As the chief instructor for the Kansas City BMW CCA club, he also knows how to help other drivers go fast, safely. Ryan was my guest on episode #31 on July 20, 2017. Ryan's Speed Secret: Know your limits, but expand them – get outside your limits. Follow: Lockton Motorsports:https://locktonmotorsports.com/ Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/ryan.staub.927 Race Team FB: https://www.facebook.com/TeamLastMinuteRacing/

Garth Stein joins me to talk about his wildly successful bestselling book, The Art of Racing in the Rain – and how it's now a major motion picture (premiers August 9th). You'll love Garth's stories, and the behind-the-scene look at why the book has become so popular, as well as how he was able to describe so accurately what racing is really like (hint: Garth raced Spec Miata). In addition to The Art of Racing in the Rain, Garth has authored three other novels—A Sudden Light, How Evan Broke His Head and Other Secrets, and Raven Stole the Moon—as well as a full-length play, Brother Jones, which had its premiere in Los Angeles and was described as "brimming with intensity" by The Los Angeles Weekly. In case you missed it (where have you been?!), The Art of Racing in the Rain is the story of a beloved philosopher dog named Enzo who teaches us everything we need to know about being human. A major motion picture starring Kevin Costner, Milo Ventimiglia, and Amanda Seyfried was filmed during real IMSA race events at Canadian Tire Motorsport Park, as well as Pacific Raceway in Seattle (where the story began). The Art of Racing in the Rain book has sold more than 6 million copies world-wide, been translated into 36 languages, and spent more than three years on the New York Times bestseller list. The novel inspired a Young Reader edition as well as four children's picture books, and a stage adaptation by Book-It Repertory Theatre in Seattle. Garth's Speed Secret: visualize where you want to be. Garth's website: http://www.garthstein.comTwitter: @garthstein Instagram: @garthstein Facebook: www.facebook.com/garthsteinauthor

Preston Lerner joins me to talk about what he's noticed that the best drivers – such as Colin Braun – do that make them so great. As a journalist, that's what he does – observe things that most people miss. We also talk about his own racing in a Spec Miata (and what you can learn from his strengths and weaknesses), the Ford GTs at Le Mans, and the dreaded Driver Ratings system that is used sports car racing. Preston writes for Road & Track magazine, amongst others, and has written a number of books, including Ford GT, Winning: Paul Newman, Speed Read Ferrari, Scarab, and History's Greatest Automotive Mysteries, Myths, and Rumors Revealed. When he's not writing, Preston is driving – often racing a Spec Miata in California.

Dr. Barry Seiller and Ryan Warkins join me to talk all about a huge topic - vision. We all know that how we use our eyes is critical in performance and race driving, and yet, we mostly take it for granted – we either have it or not. But it can be trained – it can be improved. I've been testing and using the Vizual Edge app that Doc Barry developed, and he, Ryan, and I talk about what "vision" is, and how best to train your vision skills. If you're interested in using the Vizual Edge training app, go to https://vizualedge.com/speedsecrets/ Follow: www.vizualedge.comhttps://vizualedge.com/speedsecrets/

Brian Bonner joins me to talk about motorsport sponsorship. Specifically, we talk about new trends in how motorsport marketing deals are put together, even if you're not a big pro racing team. Brian shares a couple of great examples, in James Chartres and Kanga Motorsport, and Steve Smith and Big Mission Motorsport, and then gives tips that you can use to land a sponsor. Brian is a former Indy car and IMSA driver who specializes in motorsport marketing. He's done it all, from prospecting potential sponsors, selling them, servicing them, writing PR, and managing drivers. But his sweet spot is putting sponsorship deals together – providing value for sponsor and driver/team. You can email Brian at [email protected]; or learn more at his (admittedly outdated) website at www.brmrace.com.

Dr. Steve Olsen joins me to talk about the Corvette Challenge Club, the importance of managing one's state of mind – particularly being calm – and the NuCalm system (www.nucalm.com). Steve purchased a Corvette when he turned 50 (the first time that ever happened!), and has been tracking ever since. In fact, he has more open track day laps at High Plains Raceway in Denver than anyone else. Recently, he and a partner founded the Corvette Challenge Club, and as a dentist he worked with using NuCalm to help his patients – and found that it helps drivers perform better. If you're interested in purchasing a NuCalm system, use Steve's discount code of "steve500." Steve's Speed Secret: Learn to be calm. Respond, not react. Follow: www.nucalm.com www.corvettechallengeclub.com Email: [email protected] Mobile: 303-888-8180

My friend, fellow coach, and co-conspirator in the Virtual Track Walk videos, Peter Krause and I take time after a couple of days of coaching at VIR to catch up and talk about driving (what else?!). We share thoughts on the "accelerate to" and "EoB" points, the differences between "fast" and "slow" corners, what the "racing line" truly is, what the "best execution of fundamentals" really means, and how to use your data systems "g-Sum," as well as "references and indexes." Ultimately, it's a fun discussion about keeping an open mind to all things driving. Besides being my partner in creating the Virtual Track Walk videos, Peter is a sought-after coach. He also sells and services data systems (AiM, Motec, APEX Pro, Race Logic VBOX, RaceVoice, Autosport Labs). Learn more and contact him through PeterKrause.net, and follow him on Twitter and Instagram at @vintageprocoach, as well as on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/peter.krause. Peter's Speed Secret: make sure your right foot is all the way down!

After driving the Dallara simulator at their Indy facility, I talk with sim engineer Davide Tarsitano, and Bryce Moore about how you can use it. We talk about the differences between the typical home sim rig and this multimillion-dollar driver- and car-development tool, as well as how it's not as expensive as one would think when compared to what you can accomplish with no chance of damaging one's car. Easily, this is the most realistic sim I've ever driven, and I've had the chance to drive a lot of them. The information Davide shares regarding driving in the rain is very interesting! Contact Bryce Moore at Dallara at [email protected], and check out their GT Simulator Program at here. And follow Dallara @dallaragroup.

Andy Hollis joins me to talk about everything to do with the One Lap of America. It's an event that I'm dying to do, so I pick his brain to learn as much as I can. If it's not on your list of motorsport events to do yet, it will be after listening to Andy. As he says, it's "the ultimate motorsport vacation of a lifetime," or "summer camp for gearheads." Andy is a 13-time SCCA national autocross champ, 20-year SCCA rules-maker, track day junkie, 35 years autocross and track day instructor, Race Engineer for 2-time factory-backed championship-winning PWC touring car driver Tom O'Gorman, Crew Chief for Team Honda Research 24/25H enduros at COTA and Thunderhill, and regular contributor to Grassroots Motorsports magazine (especially for tire testing). Andy's Speed Secret: minimize risk and sleep. Follow: OneLapMcLaren Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/OneLapMcLaren/One Lap of America website: http://www.onelapofamerica.com

Kostas Sidiras & Serxio Veiga join me to talk about… well, anything they want. These guys are so much fun – and we even learn something from them! We talk about driving the Nurburgring, Spa, Mosport, Ring Bananas, Fiat Multiplas, and Porsche GT3s. More importantly, we talk about why we do what we do, and what car people are really like (hint: they might not be normal). Kostas and Serxio (and friends) have a fun YouTube channel called One Lap Heroes, and both work at RSRNurburg and RSRSpa as instructors. Not surprisingly, they are hardcore car people – who love to have fun! You absolutely must watch their One Lap Heroes YouTube videos. Kostas' Speed Secret: don't be afraid to be slow and make mistakes. Learn from it. Serxio's Speed Secret: never stop learning. If you're interested in joining our trip to the Nurburging in August, check out the info at https://SpeedSecrets.com/Ring. Follow: YouTube: OneLapHeroes RSRNurburg: www.rsrnurburg.com

Lawrence Loshak joins me to talk about all sorts of really interesting & helpful topics, such as how to prepare for an event, simulators, adapting to your car, trail braking, left-foot-braking, being proactive with your driving, "taking a set," comparing front-wheel to rear-wheel & open-wheel to closed-wheel, and transmissions. And he shares 3 Speed Secrets with you! You won't want to miss this show. Lawrence is currently leading the Trans-Am championship, and has won five SCCA championships, as well as receiving the Mark Donohue Award. Lawrence's three Speed Secrets: Brake early. (Advice passed on by PD Cunningham) Don't build your first race car out of a car you love. You have to have a plan of attack. Follow Lawrence at… Web: https://loshakracing.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/loshakracing/ Instagram: @loshakracing

James Colborn joins me to talk about making his comeback to racing after taking more than a year off from it. Not only has he made a comeback, but he's done it in an open-wheel car – not something he's driven before – and on tracks he's never seen before. So, it's been a bit like starting all over again, but with a solid foundation to start from. And that's provided a very interesting learning experience. James is, as his website suggests, a "gentleman driver." He started with HPDE events, then club racing, some pro racing in production-based race cars, and now is racing a Formula Ford in the UK. All for fun. He's also a bit of an AIM data guru – mostly self-taught – and freely shares his knowledge and experience with others. James' Speed Secret: Don't be frightened of data. Follow and learn more about James – and especially, check out his AIM data videos – at www.JamesColborn.com.

Kevin Boehm, who's won the SCCA Runoff three times, shares what he's learned so you can win the Runoffs. Yes, he's sharing his secrets - from driving and car prep to his overall strategy towards the event, you'll hear how Kevin has won three out of the four of the Runoffs he's raced. Kevin is an engineer for Honda R&D, working at the Marysville, Ohio facility, and has raced in SCCA as well as IMSA. In 2019, he'll be heading to VIR, looking to gather his fourth win at the Runoffs – so look out! Kevin's Speed Secret: do your homework. Follow Kevin at: Web: www.KevinBoehm.co Instagram: @kevinboehm Facebook: www.facebook.com/kevin.boehm.716 Twitter: @KBoehm_Racing

Jim Mero joins me to talk about the Corvette, his contributions to its development over the past decade-plus, life as a development test driver, lapping the Nurburgring as part of one's job, and what's ahead for Corvette. Two things that came out of our conversation that I found especially fascinating was his explanation of "linear versus non-linear driving," and how test drivers rely on their subconscious to drive the car while the conscious mind is focused on developing the car. Jim spent 34 years at General Motors, with the last 15 as a Ride & Handling Engineer focused on the Corvette. No doubt, today's Vette is a direct result of Jim's engineering and test driving. He retired from GM in September of 2018, and now has his own consulting business, Jim Mero Vehicle Dynamics LLC. Jim's Speed Secret(s): "Get a go-kart. Driving is a process. Your best friend is your instructor and the laps you drive. Data will set you free." For more info about Jim… Web: http://jimmero.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jimmerovehicledynamics/ Email: [email protected] I also mentioned the online Chalktalk I'm doing on May 14, 2019. Yes, it's free, but to reserve your spot or join in, go to TrackAttack.io/SSChalktalk.

Bill Thomas joins me to talk about… well, lots! All of the various things he does, including his William Thomas Roadsters, Drakan Cars, Performance Garage Club, and importing the CAV GT40. Bill shares his experiences with Ferrari, Lotus, GT40s, and Hellcats. Oh, and we talk about his own track driving experience - specifically, about when and how to experiment with your driving, and why you should do that. Follow: Bill is the/a owner of: William Thomas Roadsters,LLC Drakan Cars East, LLC Performance Garage Club, LLC GT International, LLC (US Importer for the CAV GT40) He can be reached at: www.wtroadsters.com www.drakancarseast.com www.performancegarageclub.com www.gt40usa.com Phone: 908-313-4482

Steve Spano joins me to talk about how we can use technology to drive faster, and specifically, the RaceVoice device he helped develop. This device plugs into your existing ECU and data system, and then provides auditory information to you – everything from corner entry and minimum speeds to when to upshift or whether your engine is overheating. I used the RaceVoice recently and absolutely love it, so I wanted you to learn about it. After this podcast was recorded, I asked Steve for a discount for listeners, and got a "yes." So, to get a 10% discount on a RaceVoice unit, use the code "speedsecrets" at www.RaceVoice.com. Steve's Speed Secret: "Imagine doing what you're working on with great detail, then go do it." For more information about RaceVoice, go to www.RaceVoice.com.

Ingrid Steffensen is on the show today, and we talk about expanding our comfort zone, getting into flow, what we learn about ourselves from track driving, writing, learning, and her book Fast Girl: Don't Brake Until You See the Face of God. Which, by the way, is an absolutely great read! Ingrid started in the HPDE world in a Mini Cooper S, graduated to a Lotus Elise, and is now about to upgrade to an Exige Cup car. She also instructs, both in-car and in the classroom. When she's not at the track, she's probably writing her next book – or even another article for Speed Secrets Weekly. Ingrid's Speed Secret: Look further ahead. Follow: Web: http://www.ingridsteffensen.com

Johannes van Overbeek and I reminisce about the time we spent together at ESM Patron Racing, and he gives away all of his secrets about winning endurance races. We then compare right-foot with left-foot-braking, how a driver can be a nice laid back guy out of the car and yet be a killer behind the wheel, and why he recently retired from regular race driving. Johannes has won the Rolex 24 at Daytona, the Sebring 12-hour, Petit Le Mans, raced at Le Mans, and won the Thunderhill 25-hour race six times! He knows how to win endurance races...actually, just about any type of racing. He's driven for ESM Patron Racing, the Flying Lizards, and factory Porsche and BMW teams. Johannes' Speed Secret: Unclutter your brain. Follow Johannes: Instagram: @johannesvanoverbeek

Johannes van Overbeek and I reminisce about the time we spent together at ESM Patron Racing, and he gives away all of his secrets about winning endurance races. We then compare right-foot with left-foot-braking, how a driver can be a nice laid back guy out of the car and yet be a killer behind the wheel, and why he recently retired from regular race driving. Johannes has won the Rolex 24 at Daytona, the Sebring 12-hour, Petit Le Mans, raced at Le Mans, and won the Thunderhill 25-hour race six times! He knows how to win endurance races...actually, just about any type of racing. He's driven for ESM Patron Racing, the Flying Lizards, and factory Porsche and BMW teams. Johannes' Speed Secret: Unclutter your brain. Follow Johannes: Instagram: @johannesvanoverbeek