Podcast Summary: Herm & Schrader – "Hermie Sadler: From All Racing To All Business"
Introduction
In this engaging episode of Herm & Schrader, hosted by Kenny Wallace and Ken Schrader, the spotlight shines on Hermie Sadler—a renowned NASCAR driver turned successful businessman. Released on March 6, 2025, this episode delves deep into Hermie's multifaceted life, exploring his illustrious racing career, entrepreneurial ventures, personal struggles, and contributions to both the racing and wrestling industries.
Early Life and Racing Beginnings
Hermie Sadler begins by recounting his early exposure to racing, highlighting the influence of his father, Herman Marion Sadler III, a third-generation oil company owner. Growing up in a modest two-bedroom farmhouse, Hermie's passion for racing ignited at a young age.
- Hermie Sadler [02:07]: "Look, I'm like, you can be in the boardroom with the billionaires with the Fortune 500 companies, and I can wash dishes with my cooks at Fosho, whatever it takes on a daily basis."
His entry into racing was marked by significant achievements, including winning the World Carting Association Championship in 1988 and securing the Rookie of the Year in the Busch Grand National Series in 1993.
Transition to Business
As Hermie's racing career progressed, he diversified his interests into the petroleum business. After purchasing the assets of Salar Brothers Oil Company from his father, Hermie and his sister expanded into convenience stores and truck stops, emphasizing honest work, fair pricing, and excellent customer service.
- Hermie Sadler [05:32]: "But we just started building convenience stores and we'd lease them back to the company while my dad was still active in the company and doing all that."
Despite challenges, including attempts to undermine the fossil fuel industry, Hermie remained steadfast in his business pursuits, ensuring the sustainability and growth of his ventures.
Family and Personal Life
Hermie's dedication to his family is a recurring theme. Balancing a demanding career with family responsibilities, he shares heartfelt moments, such as prioritizing his daughters' activities over racing commitments.
- Hermie Sadler [19:41]: "I just decided because of where I was in my life and with what the money was going to be, I just needed to change directions in 2019."
His daughter Haley's diagnosis with autism profoundly impacted his life, leading him and his wife Angie to advocate for better resources and support for special needs children in their community.
- Hermie Sadler [28:21]: "She walks into mine and Angie's room every morning about 6:15 with a smile on her face and says, what are we going to do today?"
Political Endeavors
In an attempt to effect change at a systemic level, Hermie ventured into politics by running for the 17th District State Senate seat in Virginia. Motivated by a desire to represent rural southside Virginia and address issues like inadequate schools, poor infrastructure, and lack of economic development, Hermie ultimately withdrew his candidacy when he realized the political environment was not aligned with his principles.
- Hermie Sadler [71:52]: "I hate politics... But when you look at the Commonwealth of Virginia, all of the people and the influence and the money is in Northern Virginia, around D.C. and Hampton Roads, which is the Virginia Beach area... we've never had a voice."
Involvement in Wrestling
Hermie's passion for wrestling is intertwined with his racing career, stemming from his close friendship with professional wrestler Jeff Jarrett. Serving as a promoter, Hermie played a pivotal role in the development of wrestling promotions like Total Non Stop Action (TNA), United Wrestling Federation (UWF), and Global Force Wrestling. His efforts provided a platform for aspiring wrestlers, bridging the gap between racing and professional wrestling communities.
- Hermie Sadler [78:01]: "So I helped him make some connections in the TV industry... I was on the board of directors and then UWF, United Wrestling Federation."
Current Views on NASCAR
Reflecting on the evolution of NASCAR, Hermie expresses optimism about its current trajectory, believing that the organization is making strides to reconnect with its traditional fan base while attracting new audiences.
- Hermie Sadler [89:38]: "I really think we're back on an uptick... NASCAR has listened and I think they are trying to make the racing better."
He emphasizes the importance of making events more accessible and affordable for families, advocating for a balance between growth and preserving the sport's core values.
Closing Thoughts
The episode culminates with Hermie expressing gratitude for his enduring relationships within the racing and wrestling industries and affirming his commitment to community and family. Kenny Wallace admires Hermie's resilience and multifaceted success, highlighting him as an inspirational figure who seamlessly transitioned from racing to business without losing his authentic self.
- Hermie Sadler [93:45]: "But I did that for them until TNA finally got to a point where they had infrastructure and money and equipment and talent in place to do their own live events."
Notable Quotes
- Hermie Sadler [02:07]: "You can be in the boardroom with the billionaires with the Fortune 500 companies, and I can wash dishes with my cooks at Fosho."
- Hermie Sadler [19:41]: "I just needed to change directions in 2019."
- Hermie Sadler [28:21]: "She walks into mine and Angie's room every morning with a smile on her face and says, what are we going to do today?"
- Hermie Sadler [71:52]: "I hate politics... we've never had a voice."
- Hermie Sadler [89:38]: "NASCAR has listened and I think they are trying to make the racing better."
Conclusion
"Hermie Sadler: From All Racing To All Business" offers listeners an intimate glimpse into the life of a man who has navigated the high-octane world of NASCAR racing, built a successful business empire, faced personal challenges, and contributed significantly to the wrestling industry. Hermie's story is a testament to resilience, adaptability, and unwavering dedication to both his passions and his family.
For those interested in the intersections of sports, business, and personal growth, this episode is a must-listen. Hermie Sadler's journey underscores the importance of evolving with one's interests while staying grounded in core values and community support.