Herm & Schrader Podcast Episode Summary
Episode Title: NASCAR's New Rules, Chili Bowl Preview, and Youth vs. Experience On Track
Release Date: January 14, 2025
Hosts: Kenny Wallace and Ken Schrader
Produced by: Dirty Mo Media, SiriusXM

1. Dirt Racing Highlights

The episode kicks off with Herman Schrader recounting his recent dirt racing experience in Casa Grande, Arizona. Herman shares insights into the challenges and excitement of racing in the desert environment.

• Herman Schrader [02:50]: "I went dirt racing out of Casa Grande, Arizona... It was a lot of fun."
• Kenny Wallace [03:48]: "It has always amazed me from the time I started dirt racing... Have they ever told you about the dirt they use?"

The hosts delve into the intricacies of track preparation in sandy conditions, highlighting how teams manage moisture and rubber adhesion to maintain optimal racing surfaces.

2. NASCAR's New Provisional Rule for World-Class Drivers

A significant portion of the discussion centers around NASCAR's introduction of a new provisional rule aimed at accommodating world-class drivers like Helio Castro Neves.

• Kenny Wallace [17:28]: "NASCAR just came out with a new provisional for world-class drivers. What are your thoughts?"
• Herman Schrader [17:54]: "Helio hasn't done that. Can Helio do it? Hell yeah, of course he can."

The hosts debate the implications of this rule, questioning its vague definition of "world-class" and pondering NASCAR's motivations. They consider whether this move is a strategic attempt to boost viewership and cross-promote with other racing series, especially with increasing coverage from networks like Fox Sports.

• Kenny Wallace [19:05]: "Helio is a badass. But how is NASCAR looking at this?"
• Herman Schrader [22:12]: "Helio starting with Daytona 500 is going to create more excitement and attract more viewers."

3. ARCA Series Insights

Herman provides a nostalgic look back at the ARCA Series, emphasizing its role as a stepping stone for drivers aspiring to reach NASCAR's pinnacle.

• Herman Schrader [26:10]: "We won it in '17 with Austin Terrio and Donnie Richardson. They just clicked."
• Kenny Wallace [29:32]: "ARCA is really good because there's no more testing in the NASCAR Cup Series. Helio's getting used to the big heavy cars."

The discussion highlights the series' flexibility, diverse tracks, and its importance in nurturing talent like Helio Castro Neves. They reflect on the past successes and the enduring appeal of ARCA as a competitive and essential racing platform.

4. Age vs. Youth in Racing

A heated topic emerges as the hosts discuss the dynamics between seasoned drivers and emerging young talent. Kenny brings up Mike Wallace's attempt to qualify for the Daytona 500 and compares it to young drivers like Corey Day.

• Kenny Wallace [30:45]: "Youth is going to win out. There's a time where experience doesn't make up for youth."
• Herman Schrader [35:23]: "Mike is going after a one-race deal. Life gets more complicated as you get older."

They debate the feasibility of older drivers competing against younger counterparts, considering factors like physical fitness, focus, and life commitments. The conversation underscores the natural transition in sports where youth often overtakes experience, but also acknowledges moments when seasoned drivers can still make significant impacts.

• Kenny Wallace [38:20]: "We're not racing at that level at our age. Youth is going to win out on there."

5. Race Viewership Trends: Grandstands vs. Streaming

The hosts shift focus to the evolving nature of race viewership, comparing traditional grandstand attendance with modern streaming platforms.

• Kenny Wallace [45:05]: "People pay for Flow subscriptions because they're watching, even if the grandstands are empty."
• Herman Schrader [45:14]: "You can't complain about no one in the grandstands because you saw it."

They address criticisms about low attendance by emphasizing that virtual viewership still represents engaged fans. Herman points out that many racing enthusiasts prefer streaming events like Shark Track Racing or IMCA over attending in person, highlighting the importance of digital platforms in maintaining and growing the sport's fanbase.

6. Chili Bowl Preview

Anticipation builds as the hosts preview the upcoming Chili Bowl event, highlighting its significance and the participation of high-profile drivers.

• Kenny Wallace [53:08]: "Jeff Gordon is going to be the Grand Marshal for the 39th annual Chili Bowl."
• Herman Schrader [53:31]: "It's amazing to see drivers like Kyle Busch having fun and racing with their families."

They discuss the allure of the Chili Bowl, noting the involvement of NASCAR Cup Series champions and the excitement it brings to the racing community. The event is portrayed as a melting pot of talent, family participation, and high-energy competition that draws significant attention both on-site and through media coverage.

7. Anecdotes & Fun Moments

Towards the end of the episode, Kenny and Herman share personal stories and humorous anecdotes from their racing careers, adding a light-hearted touch to the discussion.

• Kenny Wallace [56:01]: "I blew my motor at a USMTS race in Wichita, Kansas, but secretly unloaded a backup car."
• Herman Schrader [57:58]: "We had no problems. We've never had any issues despite our disagreements."

The hosts also exchange jokes, reinforcing their camaraderie and the entertaining dynamic that their listeners appreciate.

8. Closing Remarks

In their final moments, Kenny shares his upcoming plans to visit Italy and explore Ferrari dealerships, while Herman talks about their next racing events in Cornell, Georgia, and Volusia, Florida.

• Kenny Wallace [60:31]: "Roger Penske can't do that. He's not part of my dealerships."
• Herman Schrader [65:09]: "Have your helmet ready."

They wrap up the episode with plans for future shows and encourage listeners to follow their adventures on various social media platforms.

Notable Quotes:

• Kenny Wallace [17:28]: "NASCAR just came out with a new provisional for world-class drivers. What are your thoughts?"
• Herman Schrader [26:10]: "We won it in '17 with Austin Terrio and Donnie Richardson. They just clicked."
• Kenny Wallace [30:45]: "Youth is going to win out. There's a time where experience doesn't make up for youth."
• Herman Schrader [45:14]: "You can't complain about no one in the grandstands because you saw it."
• Kenny Wallace [53:08]: "Jeff Gordon is going to be the Grand Marshal for the 39th annual Chili Bowl."
• Kenny Wallace [58:20]: "We have so much fun back in those days."

Conclusion

This episode of Herm & Schrader offers a blend of in-depth discussions on current NASCAR regulations, reflections on racing series like ARCA, debates on age versus youth in motorsports, and previews of major events like the Chili Bowl. Interspersed with personal anecdotes and humor, Kenny Wallace and Ken Schrader provide valuable insights and entertaining commentary for racing enthusiasts and casual listeners alike.