Podcast Summary: Herm & Schrader – Drag Racing’s Elvis: John Force On His Legendary Career
Episode Information:
- Title: Drag Racing’s Elvis: John Force On His Legendary Career
- Host/Author: SiriusXM, Dirty Mo Media
- Release Date: June 12, 2025
Introduction to the Guest
In this episode of Herm & Schrader, hosts Kenny Wallace and Ken Schrader sit down with the legendary NHRA drag racer, John Force. Celebrating Force's illustrious career, the conversation delves deep into his experiences, family life, and the enduring passion that keeps him racing at 74 years old.
Kenny's Nervousness and Honor [01:53 – 03:16]
Kenny opens the interview by expressing his nervousness, highlighting the significance of interviewing his hero, John Force.
Kenny [02:00]: "I don't think I've ever been this nervous in my life... this is definitely my hero and the most important interview in two years for me."
John Force’s Humble Beginnings and Family [03:16 – 07:35]
John Force shares insights into his personal life, emphasizing the importance of his family in his racing career. He discusses how his daughters grew up around the racetracks and became involved in drag racing themselves.
John Force [03:39]: "My grandkids are driving junior dragsters... that's Autumn, Robert, and my daughter Adrian's daughter."
Legacy and Influence [07:35 – 12:31]
Force reflects on the influence of his crew chiefs, particularly Larry Frazier and Austin Coyle, crediting them for much of his success. He underscores the importance of giving credit to those who deserve it.
John Force [08:49]: "Austin Coyle is the Goat. He's the guy that took me, taught me, took me down that road and won all those championships."
Building a Racing Empire [12:31 – 17:00]
Discussing the growth of his racing business, Force explains how he expanded from racing to establishing various shops, focusing on engine building and chassis. He also touches on the tragic loss of Eric Medlin, a pivotal moment in his career.
John Force [12:30]: "We built all that safety because that was about Eric Medlin. We had to get into that and make race cars better."
Racing the Next Generation [17:00 – 24:08]
Force talks about mentoring the younger generation, including his own daughters and their involvement in different racing categories. He shares a touching story about his daughter's first race win and the emotional impact it had on him.
John Force [14:54]: "She won. I jumped out of the car... she was crying. I was crying."
Sponsorship and Business Acumen [24:08 – 33:13]
A significant portion of the discussion centers around Force's expertise in securing sponsorships, a crucial aspect of his sustained success. He recounts anecdotes about his first sponsors and the challenges he faced in the early days.
John Force [24:42]: "My first sponsor was Don Steve's Chevrolet... I did a burnout in his parking lot, ended up out of Whittier Boulevard."
The Origin of “Brute Force” [26:11 – 28:15]
Force humorously reveals the origin of his nickname “Brute Force,” crediting his uncle Gene Beaver. He shares a light-hearted story about how the nickname was inspired by a porno tape, adding a personal and relatable touch to his persona.
John Force [27:32]: "He had got these tapes from Bieber after he passed away. There's a tape in here called Brute Force... you were named after a porno movie."
Personal Reflections and Faith [43:02 – 45:57]
John Force delves into his personal rituals and faith, discussing his relationship with the Bible and how it influences his life and racing career. He shares a heartfelt conversation with a customer that reinforced his belief in the power of faith.
John Force [44:51]: "Do you believe in God? I think he does sometimes... why don't you believe the Bible's in there?"
Community and Giving Back [57:14 – 58:58]
Force emphasizes the importance of community and giving back, recounting episodes where he personally helped individuals in need. Whether it’s handing a stranger a dollar or offering support to fans, his generosity shines through.
John Force [57:23]: "I've driven past them and turned around and drove back in to hand that guy. Even if I only had a dollar, I always want to help."
Passion for Movies and Motivation [59:19 – 61:20]
The conversation shifts to Force's love for movies, highlighting how films not only provide relaxation but also motivation. He discusses his enthusiasm for movies like Ford vs. Ferrari and how they inspire him in his racing endeavors.
John Force [60:28]: "They also motivate me. Like, I saw Ford versus Ferrari. Oh, well, I haven't seen... I'm gonna go see it."
Overcoming Adversity and Resilience [68:06 – 71:43]
Force shares stories of overcoming financial hardships and career setbacks. He emphasizes his resilience and faith in divine intervention, illustrating how each setback led to new opportunities.
John Force [68:07]: "It was a long road... Every time a door closed, God opened another one."
Final Reflections and Legacy [71:43 – 82:52]
In the concluding segments, Force reflects on his enduring legacy, the importance of mentoring the next generation, and his unwavering passion for racing. He shares an emotional story about a young fan achieving his first race win, underscoring the profound impact racing has on families and communities.
John Force [80:20]: "Every time stuff goes bad, something fixes it. So, yes, I was going to tell you something here."
Conclusion
The episode wraps up with heartfelt exchanges between Kenny Wallace and John Force, highlighting the mutual respect and admiration they share. Force's stories of perseverance, family, and passion provide listeners with an intimate look into the life of one of drag racing’s most iconic figures.
Kenny [81:05]: "You're amazing, and I love the kid. This is a dream come true for me."
Notable Quotes:
-
Kenny Wallace [02:00]: "I don't think I've ever been this nervous in my life... this is definitely my hero and the most important interview in two years for me."
-
John Force [08:49]: "Austin Coyle is the Goat. He's the guy that took me, taught me, took me down that road and won all those championships."
-
John Force [14:54]: "She won. I jumped out of the car... she was crying. I was crying."
-
John Force [24:42]: "My first sponsor was Don Steve's Chevrolet... I did a burnout in his parking lot, ended up out of Whittier Boulevard."
-
John Force [44:51]: "Do you believe in God? I think he does sometimes... why don't you believe the Bible's in there?"
-
John Force [57:23]: "I've driven past them and turned around and drove back in to hand that guy. Even if I only had a dollar, I always want to help."
-
John Force [60:28]: "They also motivate me. Like, I saw Ford versus Ferrari. Oh, well, I haven't seen... I'm gonna go see it."
-
John Force [68:07]: "It was a long road... Every time a door closed, God opened another one."
-
Kenny Wallace [81:05]: "You're amazing, and I love the kid. This is a dream come true for me."
Key Topics Discussed:
- John Force’s Racing Career: From his early days to becoming the oldest full-time athlete in professional sports.
- Family and Legacy: How his family, especially his daughters and grandchildren, are continuing his racing legacy.
- Sponsorship and Business: The importance of sponsorship in racing and Force’s ability to secure and maintain them.
- Overcoming Challenges: Personal and professional hurdles Force has faced and how he overcame them.
- Personal Beliefs and Rituals: His faith, personal rituals, and how they influence his racing and life.
- Community Involvement: Acts of kindness and giving back to the community.
- Passion for Movies: How movies inspire and motivate Force in his racing career.
Conclusion
This episode offers a comprehensive and heartfelt exploration of John Force's legendary career and personal life. Through engaging anecdotes and honest reflections, listeners gain an in-depth understanding of what drives one of drag racing’s most enduring figures. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to the world of drag racing, this conversation provides valuable insights into the passion, resilience, and legacy of John Force.