Victory Lane

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 more Papa 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.