Episode Summary: Herm & Schrader – Hailie Deegan’s Indy NXT Gamble & How Kenny Wallace Won Over the Dirt Track Crowd

Release Date: December 10, 2024
Hosts: Kenny Wallace and Ken Schrader
Podcast: Herm & Schrader
Platform: SiriusXM, Dirty Mo Media

In this lively episode of Herm & Schrader, hosts Kenny Wallace and Ken Schrader delve into a variety of hot topics within the racing world, blending humor, personal anecdotes, and insightful commentary. From celebrating new life in the NASCAR community to addressing competitive dynamics and transitioning talents, the episode offers a comprehensive look into the lives of racing professionals.

1. Off-Season Baby News

The episode kicks off with the hosts sharing exciting personal news about new additions to the racing families. Kenny announces, “Eric Jones and wife Holly have a baby boy on November 27th… David Wayne Jones, another baby boy” [02:08]. Herman Schrader shares his own experiences, mentioning his two children born on December 19th and 31st [02:52]. The conversation humorously explores the trend of "off-season babies" among NASCAR drivers, emphasizing the camaraderie and unique timing that comes with the racing lifestyle.

2. Favorite NASCAR Tracks

Transitioning to one of the listeners' frequent queries, the duo discusses their favorite NASCAR tracks. Herman expresses his fondness for Daytona, reminiscing about the thrill of Speed Week and the substantial prize purses: “Always like Phoenix because that was the first place I went to where I really went out of town to go racing” [06:51]. Kenny echoes this sentiment, highlighting Phoenix’s challenging layout and the strategic elements it introduces: “I like Phoenix and I love the challenge of that racetrack” [13:23]. The conversation underscores the personal connections and professional respect both hosts have for these iconic venues.

3. Accidents and Racing Stories

A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to sharing intense racing experiences. Kenny recounts a harrowing accident at Manzanita, detailing how he ended up in intensive care: “We turned over… I broke stuff from both sides” [10:00]. Herman collaborates with his own tales, including a flip at Sonoma where he escapes upside down with the help of safety personnel [55:34]. These stories not only highlight the dangers inherent in racing but also the resilience and fraternity among drivers.

4. PRI Show Highlights

The hosts shift focus to the upcoming PRI Show in Indianapolis, a major event for automotive racing parts and products. Herman emphasizes its significance for hardcore racing enthusiasts: “PRI's got it… that's where the hardcore racing products are” [17:49]. Kenny adds a personal touch by mentioning the social aspect of the event: “They have breakout meetings also. They have big functions and you are a big part of it” [18:53]. They encourage listeners to attend, noting the blend of industry showcases and vibrant social gatherings.

5. Hailie Deegan’s IndyCar NXT Move

A central discussion points to Hailie Deegan’s transition from NASCAR to IndyCar NXT. Kenny critiques the narrative surrounding her move, challenging claims that she was “fired” and highlighting her strategic career choice: “She left NASCAR to go to IndyCar NXT… she admitted it would be harder for the men to just wreck her” [21:17]. Herman supports this perspective, arguing that NASCAR is open to diverse talents and asserting, “There is nothing that Daytona beach would like better than for a female to be climbing out with some consistency” [25:33]. The hosts express strong support for Deegan, emphasizing her talent and potential in her new racing avenue.

6. Snowball Derby and Technical Inspections

The conversation shifts to the Snowball Derby, notorious for its stringent technical inspections and history of cheating scandals. Kenny outlines the challenges racers face: “NASCAR’s dying because no one is coming to the stores to buy any die cast now” [31:01]. Herman defends the integrity of Snowball Derby’s inspections, stating, “They take a damn good effort to check everything” [38:08]. They share anecdotes about past infractions and the evolution of technical scrutiny, illustrating the ongoing battle between regulations and competitive spirit in racing.

7. Local Racing Experiences and Rivalry

Kenny opens up about his struggles with local racing communities, detailing how perceived wealth and relationships affected his standing: “They thought I was too good for them. Wallace, you are wealthy… why are you racing with us?” [46:48]. Herman provides a contrasting perspective, explaining his continuous presence in the Midwest racing scene: “I never left… I was still racing around the Midwest 25 times a year” [52:34]. This segment delves into the complexities of local rivalries, personal pride, and the desire for recognition within the tightly-knit racing community.

8. Personal Stories and Closing Remarks

Wrapping up the episode, the hosts share lighter racing stories, including humorous mishaps and supportive shout-outs. Herman recounts a comedic incident involving race car identification at an infield care center [59:39], while Kenny reflects on his self-reliant approach to racing and the challenges of team dynamics: “I've always built my own race cars… and the real reason I brag that I do everything myself” [49:26]. They conclude with encouragement for listeners to attend the PRI Show and appreciate the blend of competition and community in racing.

Notable Quotes:

• Kenny Wallace [02:08]: “Eric Jones and wife Holly have a baby boy on November 27th… David Wayne Jones, another baby boy.”

• Herman Schrader [06:51]: “Always like Phoenix because that was the first place I went to where I really went out of town to go racing.”

• Kenny Wallace [13:23]: “I like Phoenix and I love the challenge of that racetrack.”

• Kenny Wallace [21:17]: “She left NASCAR to go to IndyCar NXT… she admitted it would be harder for the men to just wreck her.”

• Herman Schrader [25:33]: “There is nothing that Daytona beach would like better than for a female to be climbing out with some consistency.”

• Kenny Wallace [31:01]: “NASCAR’s dying because no one is coming to the stores to buy any die cast now.”

• Herman Schrader [38:08]: “They take a damn good effort to check everything.”

• Kenny Wallace [46:48]: “They thought I was too good for them. Wallace, you are wealthy… why are you racing with us?”

• Herman Schrader [52:34]: “I never left… I was still racing around the Midwest 25 times a year.”

• Kenny Wallace [49:26]: “I've always built my own race cars… and the real reason I brag that I do everything myself.”

This episode of Herm & Schrader masterfully balances personal narratives with broader industry discussions, offering listeners both entertainment and insightful perspectives on the evolving landscape of racing. Whether celebrating new beginnings, navigating competitive tensions, or supporting emerging talents, Kenny and Herman provide a heartfelt and unfiltered look into the world they passionately inhabit.