Herm & Schrader Podcast Summary

Episode: Byron Barely Makes It, Hocevar’s New Label, and FOX Buys a Slice of IndyCar
Release Date: August 6, 2025
Hosts: Kenny Schrader and Charlie Marlow
Produced by: SiriusXM, Dirty Mo Media

1. Bubba Wallace's Triumph at the Brickyard 400

The episode kicks off with an exhilarating discussion about Bubba Wallace's impressive victory at the Brickyard 400. Kenny Schrader highlights the significance of Bubba's win:

Kenny Schrader [00:02]: "Bubba Wallace lined up against Kyle Larson and outrunning that at the Brickyard 400. This marks Bubba Wallace's third career Cup Series victory and secures a spot in the 2025 NASCAR playoffs."

Charlie Marlow adds to the excitement, emphasizing the impact of Bubba's performance on his career and team.

2. In-Depth Analysis of the NASCAR Iowa Race

Kenny and Charlie delve into the challenges faced during the recent NASCAR race in Iowa, affectionately nicknamed "Patch Adams" due to its treacherous conditions.

Kenny Schrader [07:06]: "This was a wild race. Drivers were spinning out left and right, especially in turns one and four."

They discuss the track's condition, with mixed pavement causing unpredictable car handling, leading to numerous caution laps.

Charlie Marlow [07:48]: "Looking at the grandstands, people wanted to come out to Iowa in the beautiful facility in the middle of the cornfields and supported it."

The conversation also touches on the potential future of Iowa Speedway in the NASCAR schedule, with Kenny expressing concern:

Kenny Schrader [09:01]: "I think Iowa is one of those races that could change. They could leave there in a heartbeat."

However, Charlie remains optimistic about the venue's appeal and its role in the racing community.

3. Fuel Mileage Races: A Double-Edged Sword

A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to the strategic elements of fuel mileage races. Kenny praises the excitement these races bring:

Kenny Schrader [20:09]: "Fuel mileage races are some of the most antagonizing good races. You feel, oh, is he going to run out?"

Charlie concurs, explaining the inherent unpredictability and team strategy involved:

Charlie Marlow [20:42]: "It's the first one to complete 350 laps. No matter how they race, it's all about the overall time."

4. Carson Hocevar's Controversial Moment and New Nickname

The hosts address Carson Hocevar's recent incident on the track, which has earned him the nickname "Hurricane Hocevar."

Kenny Schrader [24:00]: "Carson gets loose underneath Zane Smith, taking him out. What do you think of Hurricane Hocevar?"

Charlie Marlow [24:46]: "He didn't deliberately drive into him. It's part of the deal in racing."

They discuss the ramifications of the incident, including penalties and Hocevar's standing among fans and peers.

5. FOX's Strategic Investment in IndyCar

One of the pivotal discussions revolves around FOX Sports acquiring a 33% stake in Penske Entertainment, the parent company of IndyCar.

Kenny Schrader [40:23]: "Fox Sports has bought 33% of Penske Entertainment. This means IndyCar is getting a significant boost to grow its audience."

Charlie elaborates on the potential benefits of this partnership, highlighting Roger Penske's vision:

Charlie Marlow [42:19]: "It's for the growth of the sport. Roger Penske is ensuring IndyCar is in a better position moving forward."

The hosts agree that this move could stabilize and expand IndyCar's reach, drawing parallels to NASCAR's established media presence.

6. Broadcasting Shift: NASCAR's Media Strategies

The episode touches upon NASCAR's exploration of new media partnerships to regain its traditional fan base.

Kenny Schrader [36:49]: "NASCAR is looking for a media company to gain the blue-collar, old fans back. It's like they're admitting they lost some of their core audience."

Charlie provides insights into the challenges NASCAR faces in modernizing its media approach without alienating long-time fans.

7. Racing Community and Events Highlights

Kenny and Charlie celebrate notable achievements within the racing community, including Ryan Gustin's victory at Cedar Lake and the record-breaking MLB game at Bristol Motor Speedway.

Charlie Marlow [44:53]: "Ryan Gustin wins $100,000 at Cedar Lake. It's a big deal in the dirt racing community."

Kenny Schrader [48:37]: "Bristol Motor Speedway set an attendance record with 91,000 fans attending a Major League Baseball game."

These highlights showcase the vibrant and diverse nature of the motorsports community.

8. Humorous Interlude: Jokes and Light-hearted Banter

Towards the end of the episode, the hosts lighten the mood with a series of jokes, maintaining the show's signature humorous tone.

Dylan Hart Jr. [49:32]: "How is marriage like a three-ring circus? There's the engagement ring, the wedding ring, then suffering."

9. Final Thoughts and Closing Remarks

Kenny emphasizes the importance of evolving with the times while retaining the essence of NASCAR, concluding the episode with gratitude towards sponsors and listeners.

Kenny Schrader [37:32]: "Everything has changed, and we're in a new world. But the passion for racing remains strong."

The hosts thank their audience and uplift their support for the racing community, ensuring listeners feel engaged and informed.

Notable Quotes:

• Kenny Schrader [00:02]: "Bubba Wallace lined up against Kyle Larson and outrunning that at the Brickyard 400."
• Charlie Marlow [07:48]: "People wanted to come out to Iowa in the beautiful facility in the middle of the cornfields."
• Kenny Schrader [20:09]: "Fuel mileage races are some of the most antagonizing good races."
• Kenny Schrader [36:49]: "NASCAR is looking for a media company to gain the blue-collar, old fans back."
• Dylan Hart Jr. [49:32]: "How is marriage like a three-ring circus?"

Conclusion

This episode of Herm & Schrader offers an in-depth look into recent NASCAR events, strategic business moves within the racing industry, and the dynamic nature of motorsports broadcasting. Through engaging discussions, notable insights, and a touch of humor, Kenny Schrader and Charlie Marlow provide listeners with a comprehensive overview of the current racing landscape.