Podcast Summary: Herm & Schrader
Episode: NASCAR Road Trips to Mexico, SVG Circles The Cup Field, & Daniel Suarez Becomes a Homegrown Hero
Release Date: June 18, 2025

Introduction

In this episode of Herm & Schrader, hosts Kenny Schrader and Herman Schrader dive into a range of topics centered around NASCAR's recent ventures, driver performances, and the challenges of expanding the sport internationally. The conversation is candid, humorous, and rich with insider insights, making it a must-listen for racing enthusiasts and casual fans alike.

NASCAR’s Expansion to Mexico

Kenny Schrader initiates the discussion by addressing NASCAR's strategic move to expand its footprint into Mexico. He references a statement from Ben Kennedy, highlighting the historic significance of NASCAR's presence in Mexico and the overwhelming local fan support.

Kenny Schrader [16:39]: "NASCAR goes to Mexico. And Ben Kennedy last night... 'This is more of a strategic move as a sport to expand our footprint globally and internationally and to a new mass fan base.'"

Herman Schrader expresses his mixed feelings about the expansion, questioning the rationale behind moving to a country with a vastly different population base.

Herman Schrader [18:02]: "Putting Mexico and Canada, let's go."

They discuss the logistical challenges NASCAR faced, including delays caused by airplane issues during the Mexico trip, which Ben Kennedy attributed to the complexities of international operations.

Kenny Schrader [22:50]: "They had to move practice from Friday to Saturday morning because the planes had issues. Damn."

Collaborations with OCESA

The hosts clarify misconceptions regarding NASCAR's partnership with OCESA, a prominent Mexican concert promoter, rather than direct collaboration with Mexican racing entities.

Charlie An [18:38]: "OCESA is a Mexican concert promoter... similar to Live Nation in the U.S."

Herman Schrader adds context by comparing OCESA to other large-scale promoters in motorsports, emphasizing that NASCAR’s partnership is with established event organizers.

Fan Reactions and Logistical Hurdles

Kenny Schrader shares anecdotes about the intense and unexpected reactions from Mexican fans, noting the cultural differences in fan behavior compared to the United States.

Kenny Schrader [25:48]: "The police in Mexico carry AK47s. The fans were caught off guard... They're getting a damn AK47 police escort."

Herman Schrader reflects on the differences, comparing it to the gun culture in parts of the U.S.

Herman Schrader [25:54]: "A lot of people in Dittmer, Missouri, carry guns too."

Daniel Suarez’s Remarkable Performance

A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to celebrating Daniel Suarez’s unexpected triumph in the Xfinity Series. After destroying his first car in practice, Suarez’s comeback to win the race is hailed as a "storybook" moment.

Kenny Schrader [27:34]: "Daniel Suarez decides to run the Xfinity series... he wrecks in practice... passes the whole field... wins the Xfinity race."

Herman Schrader underscores the improbability and inspiring nature of Suarez’s victory, suggesting it almost seemed scripted due to his dramatic turnaround.

Herman Schrader [28:10]: "It's a storybook, which means that everybody will say it was scripted."

Driver Rivalries: Ricky Stenhouse vs. Carson Osborne

The hosts delve into the escalating tensions between drivers Ricky Stenhouse and Carson Osborne. Kenny emphasizes how Osborne's aggressive driving has significantly impacted Stenhouse's standing in the points.

Kenny Schrader [43:14]: "Carson Osborne has taken Stenhouse from 12th to 21st single-handedly. That's a tough pill to swallow."

Herman Schrader and Charlie An discuss the potential for future conflicts and the implications for the drivers' careers.

Herman Schrader [40:11]: "There's a DNF in his future."

Impact of Weather on Racing Schedules

Weather disruptions have been a recurring theme, with Kenny recounting how rain has affected various racing events.

Kenny Schrader [55:49]: "They got rained out... Granite City got rained out... Fairberry was Redemption."

The unpredictability of weather continues to pose challenges for scheduling and event planning within the motorsport community.

Dirt Racing Updates

Transitioning to dirt racing, the discussion covers notable performances and upcoming events. Kenny highlights the resilience of veteran racers like Billy Moyer and Shannon Babb, despite concerns about their age.

Kenny Schrader [53:54]: "Shannon Babb is only 52 years old. When you and I were 52, we were just getting going."

Herman Schrader praises their enduring passion and competitive spirit.

Herman Schrader [53:20]: "Billy's always... gonna be good till he decides he doesn't want to race anymore."

Podium Celebrations in NASCAR

The conversation shifts to NASCAR adopting podium celebrations similar to Formula One. While initially skeptical, both hosts acknowledge the positive aspects of this change, particularly the immediate post-race interviews conducted at the front straightaway.

Kenny Schrader [47:31]: "I like them stopping on the straightaway and then interviewing right there."

Herman Schrader admits to initially resisting the change but now appreciates the authenticity it brings to post-race celebrations.

Jokes Segment

In keeping with their signature humor, Kenny, Herman, and guest Charlie An share a series of Father's Day-themed jokes, adding a lighthearted break to the intense discussions.

Charlie An [58:31]: "How does Darth Vader like his toast cooked on Father's Day? On the dark side."

Herman Schrader [59:52]: "The ICU."

Conclusion

Wrapping up the episode, the hosts extend their gratitude to sponsors like Fox Factory Vehicles and tease upcoming segments and future plans. The camaraderie between Kenny, Herman, and Charlie An shines through, leaving listeners eager for the next installment.

Kenny Schrader [62:07]: "Check out Dirty Mo Media on Twitter, Facebook, TikTok, and Instagram."

Key Takeaways

• NASCAR’s International Expansion: Strategic efforts to tap into new markets like Mexico are met with both enthusiasm and logistical challenges.

• Daniel Suarez’s Victory: An inspiring comeback story that underscores talent and resilience in racing.

• Driver Rivalries: Tensions between drivers can significantly impact standings and future performances.

• Cultural Differences in Racing: International events bring unique fan behaviors and operational challenges.

• Adaptations in NASCAR: Embracing podium celebrations adds a fresh dynamic to post-race traditions.

For racing fans looking to stay updated on the latest in NASCAR and dirt racing, this episode of Herm & Schrader offers a comprehensive and entertaining overview of the current landscape in motorsports.