Podcast Summary: Herm & Schrader Episode: Kyle Larson Has Double Trouble Again, The Watermelon Man Is Back, & Prime Video Puts On A Show!
Release Date: May 28, 2025
Hosts: Herman Schrader, Kenny Schrader, Charlie Marlow
Produced by: SiriusXM, Dirty Mo Media

Introduction

The latest episode of Herm & Schrader dives deep into the tumultuous racing season, spotlighting Kyle Larson's ongoing challenges, the triumphant return of Ross Chastain (affectionately dubbed "The Watermelon Man"), and Prime Video’s innovative approach to NASCAR coverage. Hosted by the charismatic midwestern duo Herman and Kenny Schrader, along with Charlie Marlow, the episode promises a blend of candid conversations, behind-the-scenes insights, and lively discussions that only these veteran racers can deliver.

Kyle Larson’s Struggles on the Track

Herman Schrader opens the discussion by recounting Kyle Larson's difficulties during recent races, particularly his spin-outs and wrecks:

[23:01] Kenny Schrader: "Well, he's only had two IndyCar races... Just happened to be in. And that was 500 both times and last year running great. Have a pit road problem."

Kenny elaborates on Larson's aggressive driving style:

[23:05] Kenny Schrader: "He goes so fast. But when you go that fast, you're closer to the edge and it just, you know, gets away from him."

Herman reflects on the pressure and precision required at elite levels:

[25:04] Herman Schrader: "What makes them great. They just haul ass is all... I mean, you know, in all them different type cars."

Ross Chastain’s Heroic Victory

Transitioning to Ross Chastain, the hosts celebrate his remarkable comeback:

[35:21] Kenny Schrader: "He ran Byron down. Right."

Herman narrates Chastain's strategic maneuvers that led to his victory:

[35:27] Herman Schrader: "Ross Chastain, coming from dead last and won the damn race with a heroic... He just had a lot more speed."

Charlie Marlow adds to the excitement, highlighting Chastain's determination:

[45:45] Charlie Marlow: "It's like, you just have to see him step up and do it."

The segment underscores Ross’s resilience and strategic prowess, marking him as a standout driver this season.

Prime Video’s Revolutionary NASCAR Coverage

A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to discussing Prime Video’s fresh take on broadcasting NASCAR. Herman praises the network’s seamless production:

[51:29] Herman Schrader: "They did a good job. And they're delivering a product. You know, you gotta really, you gotta have something that once you turn it on you stay there."

Charlie shares his viewing experience:

[54:08] Charlie Marlow: "We actually only have one smart TV. We should have another one... Everything was clear and like you talked about, you know, it was raw. You saw actually the production guy bring a chair behind when they had a guest come in."

Kenny reflects on the financial commitment Prime has made:

[55:09] Herman Schrader: "7.7 billion over seven years. So 1.1 billion per year."

The hosts agree that Prime Video has elevated the viewing experience, making it more engaging and professional, thereby attracting a larger audience.

Motorsports Updates

Indianapolis 500 Highlights:

• Winner: Alex Palo from Barcelona, Spain, marking his first oval win.
• Achievements: Five wins out of six IndyCar races this year and three of the last four championships.

Kenny shares his excitement:

[15:24] Herman Schrader: "He's the first Spaniard, the first driver from Spain. This one's nuts."

Track Conditions and Driver Performance:

• Discussion on Martinsville's suitability for current NASCAR cars:

[12:10] Herman Schrader: "Do you think that were okay still at Martinsville with the cup cars?... I think Martinsville's great."

• Treb Jacoby’s Performance:

[08:10] Herman Schrader: "He kicked our butt at Granite. I mean, good."

Driver Promotions and Ambassadors

NASCAR’s introduction of Ambassador Points has stirred conversations among drivers regarding appearances and promotions. Herman and Kenny discuss the impact of these points on driver behavior and team dynamics:

[60:11] Kenny Schrader: "This whole thing, our whole sport, the whole business model revolves around promotion. And the drivers need to be out there promoting themselves, the sport, the sponsor."

Dirt Racing Segment

The hosts transition to dirt racing, sharing updates and personal experiences:

• Local Races: Highlights from Wheatland, Missouri, and Atomic in Ohio.
• Notable Performances: Bobby Pierce’s 100-lap win and Chris Windham's impressive podium.

Herman shares a memorable race experience:

[64:22] Herman Schrader: "Nick Hoffman gets on social media and goes, what is going wrong with dirt racing?"

Upcoming Events and Personal Updates

Kenny Schrader outlines his racing schedule for the upcoming weekend, including events at Federated Auto Parts Raceway Park and the National Sprint Car Hall of Fame induction ceremony for Steve Sinclair:

[72:49] Kenny Schrader: "I'm gonna go change. I'm gonna go to Moberly tonight."

Birthday Celebrations and Light-Hearted Jokes

Celebrating his birthday on the podcast, Herman engages in humorous exchanges with Kenny and Charlie, sharing birthday-themed jokes that add a fun twist to the episode.

Final Thoughts and Promotions

The episode winds down with promotions for upcoming shows and sponsors, including Fox Factory Vehicles and Dirty Mo Media merchandise. The hosts also tease future episodes featuring prominent figures like Justin Marks and Doug Coletta, ensuring listeners stay tuned for more exhilarating content.

Notable Quotes:

• [23:05] Kenny Schrader on Larson’s driving style:

  “He goes so fast. But when you go that fast, you're closer to the edge and it just, you know, gets away from him.”

• [35:21] Kenny Schrader about Chastain:

  “He ran Byron down. Right.”

• [55:09] Herman Schrader on Prime Video’s investment:

  “7.7 billion over seven years. So 1.1 billion per year.”

• [60:11] Kenny Schrader on promotion’s role:

  “This whole thing, our whole sport, the whole business model revolves around promotion.”

Conclusion

This episode of Herm & Schrader offers an in-depth look into the current state of motorsports, enriched by the hosts' firsthand experiences and insightful commentary. From celebrating Ross Chastain’s comeback to critiquing Prime Video’s NASCAR coverage, the conversation is both engaging and informative. Whether you're a racing aficionado or a casual fan, this episode provides valuable perspectives and entertaining anecdotes that encapsulate the spirit and challenges of the racing world today.

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