Podcast Summary: Herm & Schrader Episode: Clean Racing at COTA, Jimmie Johnson's Underappreciated Accomplishments, & Rusty Wallace Makes A Cameo
Release Date: March 5, 2025
Hosts: Kenny Wallace and Ken Schrader
Produced by: SiriusXM, Dirty Mo Media

1. Bike Week 2025 and Motorcycle Riding

The episode kicks off with Herman Schrader and Kenny Schrader discussing their participation in Bike Week 2025 at Rusty and Patty's house in Daytona Beach, Florida.

• Ken Schrader's Motorcycle Journey: Ken shares his long-standing passion for motorcycles, tracing back to his youth when he raced dirt bikes with his brother. Over the years, he experimented with different motorcycles, from Harleys to Gold Wings, ultimately embracing long-distance riding influenced by his friend Kyle.

  [04:17] Ken Schrader: "When I was 16, 17, 18, I always rode the dirt bikes. Race with your brother a lot when we were kids... one day I bought a Harley... then a Gold Wing... Kyle really got me riding longer distances."

• Plans for Future Rides: The hosts express excitement about leading a charity ride in early May, highlighting the organization and camaraderie within the motorcycle community.

  [05:06] Herman Schrader: "We got some friends in southern Missouri. We're gonna leave St. Louis and head up to Traverse City, Michigan, winding down in Homestead, Virginia. It'll be a lot of fun."

2. Racing in Springfield, Missouri

Ken and Herman recount their recent racing experiences at Jerry Hoffman's track in Springfield, Missouri.

• Challenging Conditions: Despite the challenges of racing in snowy conditions, Ken describes the thrill and camaraderie of competing on a well-maintained track.

  [07:18] Ken Schrader: "It was challenging... but it was fun. We just ran our little bemod down there like Harry Gant would say. We happened to be leading at the end, but it was a fun trip."

• Recognition of Fellow Racers: They acknowledge Gordy Gundaker's performance and emphasize Jerry Hoffman's dedication to maintaining the track, anticipating an even bigger event next year.

  [08:43] Ken Schrader: "There's a lot of people did not think it'd happen. So they took the snow off the place. We caught really good weather... it'll be better and bigger next year."

3. Naming Son Sheldon

A heartfelt story emerges about why Ken named his son Sheldon, paying tribute to racing legend Sheldon Kinzer.

• Overcoming Adversity: Ken narrates a pivotal moment during a Silver Crown race in Nazareth, Pennsylvania, where a delayed race granted him the opportunity to win the championship despite a previous injury.

  [13:10] Ken Schrader: "We were first and second in Silver Crown points... the race got postponed due to rain. I went back, took a chance, and ended up winning the championship."

• Legacy and Respect: This achievement led him to honor Sheldon Kinzer by naming his son after him, reflecting deep admiration and respect for the racing community.

  [16:51] Ken Schrader: "We are gonna name our son Sheldon after Sheldon Kinzer... he helped me a whole lot."

4. Notable Racing Figures: Mike Eddy and Dick Trickle

Ken and Herman delve into the legacy of Mike Eddy, highlighting his contributions to short track racing alongside Dick Trickle and Bob Senaker.

• Impact on Racing: Mike Eddy is celebrated as one of the greatest short track racers, with a storied career that influenced many in the racing community.

  [18:45] Ken Schrader: "Mike Eddy is one of the greatest short track racers of our time... he and Dick Trickle and Bob Senaker were the first in ASA."

• Historical Significance: They discuss the competitive nature of the era, mentioning Mark Martin's emergence and the stacked lineup that defined that period.

  [19:32] Herman Schrader: "It tells you what a phenomenon Mark Martin was because he came there at like 16 years old and outran those guys."

5. Clean Racing at Circuit of the Americas (COTA)

A significant portion of the episode focuses on the recent NASCAR race at Circuit of the Americas, emphasizing the clean and competitive nature of the finish.

• Race Dynamics: The hosts analyze the final laps, where Christopher Bell, William Byron, and Tyler Reddick showcased exceptional sportsmanship by not engaging in aggressive maneuvers to take each other out.

  [20:30] Ken Schrader: "It was great racing... all four of those guys... doing it clean."

• Kyle Busch's Tactics: They discuss Kyle Busch's strategic approach to holding off faster competitors, noting his acknowledgment of being a nemesis to Christopher Bell.

  [22:21] Ken Schrader: "If we keep running like this, we're going to get some wins. But he was just trying to see how long he could hold him off."

• Fan and Media Reactions: Herman shares insights from NASCAR personalities and fans, noting the rarity of such respectful finishes in recent times.

  [24:06] Herman Schrader: "It's fair to say that this is one of the first NASCAR races we've seen in a long time where they didn't take each other out."

6. Jimmie Johnson's Underappreciated Accomplishments

The discussion shifts to honoring Jimmie Johnson, a seven-time NASCAR Cup Champion whose consecutive championships often go unrecognized.

• Achievements Highlighted: Herman brings attention to Jimmy Johnson's five straight championships, acknowledging the difficulty of such an accomplishment without the drama often seen in the sport.

  [40:26] Ken Schrader: "Jimmy did it without any drama. He just was friggin' fast."

• Comparative Analysis: They compare Johnson's clean and consistent approach to racing with other drivers known for their controversies, reinforcing why Johnson's achievements deserve more recognition.

  [43:08] Herman Schrader: "Jimmy Johnson was just too perfect, too nice. There's absolutely zero dirt on him."

7. IndyCar and Cross-Promotion with NASCAR

Ken and Herman explore the relationship between NASCAR and IndyCar, discussing Fox's role in promoting both racing series.

• Growth and Collaboration: They express optimism about the potential for cross-promotion to elevate both sports, leveraging Fox's involvement to increase visibility and fan engagement.

  [46:22] Ken Schrader: "Cross-promotion is going to be good... bring more attention to Indy fans and NASCAR fans alike."

• Historical Context: The hosts reflect on the historical challenges IndyCar faced, including splits and competition, emphasizing the current positive trajectory.

  [48:09] Ken Schrader: "It was a mess... and it killed them. So it's pretty wild because it has taken them that long."

8. Trading Cards Making a Comeback

The resurgence of trading cards in the racing community is another topic of interest, with Herman noting increased presence at racetracks.

• Fan Engagement: Ken admits limited knowledge but acknowledges the popularity of trading cards, especially at events where fans eagerly collect them.

  [51:47] Ken Schrader: "They come every day... they've been out since the '80s."

• Nostalgia Factor: The discussion touches on the nostalgic appeal of trading cards, drawing parallels to past decades and their significance in racing culture.

  [52:03] Herman Schrader: "They've been out since the '80s."

9. Rusty Wallace’s Cameo

The episode features a delightful surprise when Rusty Wallace joins the hosts at Bike Week, adding an extra layer of camaraderie and fun.

• Friendly Banter: Rusty's arrival leads to humorous interactions, emphasizing the strong bond between the racers and their shared love for motorsports and motorcycles.

  [52:38] Ken Schrader: "Oh, it's a hero up there. What's up, Rusty Trader."

• Future Plans: Rusty expresses interest in joining future events, highlighting the inclusive and supportive nature of their community.

  [53:08] Rusty Schrader: "Anyone not experience this, you should try to experience. It was so much fun."

10. Closing Remarks and Jokes

The episode wraps up with light-hearted jokes and final thoughts, maintaining the show's signature humor and friendly rapport.

• Humor Segment: Herman shares a series of jokes, keeping the tone upbeat and engaging as the show concludes.

  [56:34] Herman Schrader: "Why are undertakers such good tippers? They pay an arm and a leg."

• Upcoming Events: The hosts briefly mention their upcoming plans, including attending Trackside Live in Vegas and participating in future races.

  [59:25] Ken Schrader: "I'm gonna go to Amelia Island again for the car show down there."

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Kenny Schrader on Spending Time with Herman:

  [01:30] Kenny Schrader: "I like spending time with you."

• Ken Schrader on Motorcycle Stability:

  [06:22] Ken Schrader: "I have not fallen over on my trike since I put the third tire on. It made a huge difference."

• Kenny Schrader on NASCAR Racing Friends:

  [17:50] Ken Schrader: "Yeah. So Jason Sides that owns a 7 car, you know, in the World Outlaws, ponytail."

• Herman Schrader on Trading Cards:

  [51:58] Herman Schrader: "But I see that back then. But anyway, that's all good."

Conclusion

In this episode of Herm & Schrader, Kenny Wallace and Ken Schrader provide an engaging blend of personal anecdotes, in-depth racing analysis, and heartfelt tributes to racing legends. From their adventures at Bike Week 2025 to celebrating Jimmie Johnson's phenomenal yet underappreciated successes, the hosts offer listeners a comprehensive and entertaining look into the world of motorsports. The unexpected cameo by Rusty Wallace adds a charming touch, reinforcing the strong sense of community that defines the show. Whether discussing the future of IndyCar, the resurgence of trading cards, or sharing humorous moments, Herm & Schrader deliver a well-rounded and captivating episode for both long-time fans and newcomers alike.