Podcast Summary: Herm & Schrader – "Overcoming Cancer, Writing Books, & Covering NASCAR For 30 Years"
Podcast Information:
- Title: Herm & Schrader
- Host/Author: SiriusXM, Dirty Mo Media
- Description: An entertaining blend of racing, beer, and storytelling with Kenny Wallace and Ken Schrader. The show dives into current events, recounts NASCAR careers, and reveals previously private conversations with a humorous and irreverent twist.
- Episode: Overcoming Cancer, Writing Books, & Covering NASCAR For 30 Years
- Release Date: January 23, 2025
1. Introduction and Guest Background
[01:02] Kenny Wallace:
“Hello, everyone, and welcome back to Kenny Conversation, brought to you by JEGS, the leader in high performance aftermarket car parts…”
Kenny Wallace welcomes Holly Kane, a seasoned motorsports journalist with over three decades of experience covering NASCAR and other racing disciplines. Holly introduces herself as a native Floridian, highlighting her roots in Jacksonville and central Florida near Tampa. Her career began at the Tampa Tribune before expanding to the Dallas Morning News and a stint in Seattle, where she covered emerging NASCAR talents like Casey Kane and Greg Biffle.
Notable Quote:
[02:14] Holly Kane:
“Yes, I'm actually a native Floridian... I’m as Florida as you can get.”
2. Personal Journey: Battling Cancer
Kenny shifts the conversation to Holly's personal health journey, acknowledging her battle with cancer and the support she received from the NASCAR community and her family.
[05:45] Holly Kane:
“My health is pretty good. My doctor was really proud... I missed about six or seven months of the last year going through chemotherapy and radiation for cancer...”
Holly shares her resilience, emphasizing a positive outlook despite facing cancer twice. She highlights the importance of a positive mental attitude (PMA), attributing it to her supportive network, including friends, family, and colleagues like Kenny.
Notable Quote:
[07:04] Holly Kane:
“I would say I've had a pretty solid PMA all the time... I try to convey that you get more out of this world being positive.”
3. Discussing "NASCAR Mavericks"
The conversation transitions to Holly's latest endeavor: her new book, "NASCAR Mavericks," co-authored with Herb Branham. The book celebrates individuals who revolutionized NASCAR, featuring archival photographs and insightful narratives.
[08:08] Holly Kane:
“The photographs are amazing... they talk about people and the cars that made our sport so wonderful.”
Holly explains the book's structure, with each chapter being short and focused, catering to both avid NASCAR fans and newcomers. She appreciates the ease with which readers can navigate through different decades and topics.
Notable Quote:
[08:35] Holly Kane:
“The chapters are all really short... You can literally go to the decade that you may be interested in and say, oh, I want to read a little bit about that.”
4. Evolution of Journalism in a Fast-Paced World
Holly and Kenny discuss the shift in journalism towards shorter, more digestible content. Holly relates this to the format of her book, which aligns with contemporary reading habits influenced by social media and fast information consumption.
[12:57] Holly Kane:
“The next generation... wants it quick, which we're so fortunate with social media to get news out quickly.”
She acknowledges the challenge of adapting to changing reader preferences while maintaining depth and quality in storytelling.
Notable Quote:
[13:57] Holly Kane:
“The whole landscape now has changed so much... it's changing from when I started covering the sport in 1990 to what it is today.”
5. Coverage of Various Motorsports
Holly elaborates on her diverse coverage, including NASCAR, Formula One (F1), IndyCar, and NHRA. She shares her passion for all racing forms, highlighting the unique aspects and competitive nature of each.
[18:47] Holly Kane:
“I cover everything. My primary job is NASCAR, but I love all racing.”
She discusses her experiences at international venues like Silverstone and contrasts the "party atmosphere" of F1 with the more hands-on, technical environment of NASCAR.
Notable Quote:
[20:18] Holly Kane:
“The drivers... their heart and soul is the same no matter what they are racing.”
6. Social Media's Impact on Fan Interactions
Holly and Kenny delve into the influence of social media on motorsports fandom. They explore how platforms amplify fan feedback, both positive and negative, and the challenges journalists face in navigating this landscape.
[37:56] Holly Kane:
“Sometimes I feel like... I respond or I pay more attention when negative things are said.”
They discuss the dual nature of social media as a tool for engagement and a source of constant critique, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a balanced perspective.
Notable Quote:
[36:25] Kenny Wallace:
“It’s kind of weird because... you’re having so much fun... and then you get on social media, and they’re telling you why you should not have liked it.”
7. NASCAR's Evolution and Fan Dynamics
The duo examines the evolution of NASCAR, addressing the perennial tension between tradition and innovation. They discuss how NASCAR's willingness to adapt contributes to its longevity, despite facing criticism from purists resistant to change.
[33:59] Holly Kane:
“I think one of the best things... is the fact that they're willing to change.”
Holly commends NASCAR's efforts to experiment with venues and technical specifications, acknowledging that change often polarizes the fan base but is essential for growth.
Notable Quote:
[34:09] Holly Kane:
“They’re willing to try different things, and sometimes when it doesn’t work, then they revert back.”
8. IndyCar's Popularity and Promotion
Holly provides insights into IndyCar's promotion challenges, particularly beyond the iconic Indianapolis 500. She suggests that increased focus on driver personalities and enhanced marketing efforts by networks like Fox could boost visibility and fan engagement.
[28:11] Holly Kane:
“I think what's needed is that the drivers need to come through a lot more. People know AJ Ford.”
She highlights notable drivers like AJ Foyt and Santino Ferrucci, emphasizing their contributions and charismatic presence as key to IndyCar's appeal.
Notable Quote:
[30:15] Holly Kane:
“The drivers need to come through a lot more. People know AJ Foyt... they’re very interesting personalities.”
9. Personal Interests and Family Life
Holly shares her personal interests in music, playing instruments like the piano and flute, and her love for The Beatles. She also discusses her supportive family, including her son pursuing a commercial pilot's license and her daughter Sydney’s passion for marine biology.
[41:16] Holly Kane:
“I am a huge Beatles fan... My son's middle name is McCartney.”
These personal anecdotes highlight the balance Holly maintains between her demanding career and her fulfilling family life, underscoring the support systems that have aided her resilience.
Notable Quote:
[43:55] Holly Kane:
“My daughter Sydney is going to graduate college soon... she wants to make that her career and travel around the world.”
10. Conclusion and Final Remarks
Kenny and Holly wrap up the episode by promoting Holly's book, encouraging listeners to purchase "NASCAR Mavericks." They reflect on the enduring passion that drives both Holly and the audience, celebrating her achievements and contributions to motorsports journalism.
[46:32] Holly Kane:
“Thank you, Kenny, so very much. I really mean it. You're such a great person.”
Holly expresses gratitude for the platform to share her experiences and insights, reinforcing her positive outlook despite the challenges faced.
Notable Quote:
[45:57] Kenny Wallace:
“Your son does something very difficult, which is airplanes are no joke... your daughter is worldly. You got it going on and everybody loves you.”
Key Takeaways:
- Resilience and Positivity: Holly Kane's battle with cancer exemplifies unwavering strength and a positive mindset, inspiring both fans and colleagues.
- Evolution of Motorsports Journalism: The shift towards shorter, more engaging content reflects broader changes in media consumption, requiring adaptability from journalists.
- Diverse Motorsport Coverage: Holly's extensive coverage across various racing disciplines showcases the rich tapestry of motorsports and the unique stories within each.
- Impact of Social Media: The rise of social media has transformed fan interactions, presenting both opportunities and challenges for sports journalists.
- Embracing Change in NASCAR: NASCAR's willingness to innovate is crucial for its continued relevance, even as it navigates differing fan opinions.
- Personal Fulfillment: Balancing a demanding career with personal interests and family highlights the importance of support systems and personal passions.
Notable Quotes Overview:
- Holly Kane on Being a Native Floridian: “I’m as Florida as you can get.” [02:14]
- Holly on Overcoming Cancer: “I may sound silly, but that's how I try and live my life now.” [05:45]
- Holly on "NASCAR Mavericks": “The chapters are all really short... You can literally go to the decade that you may be interested in and say, oh, I want to read a little bit about that.” [08:35]
- Holly on PMA: “I try to convey that you get more out of this world being positive.” [07:04]
- Holly on Social Media Impact: “Sometimes I feel like... I respond or I pay more attention when negative things are said.” [37:56]
- Holly on NASCAR's Adaptability: “They’re willing to try different things, and sometimes when it doesn’t work, then they revert back.” [34:09]
- Holly on IndyCar’s Drivers: “The drivers need to come through a lot more. People know AJ Foyt... they’re very interesting personalities.” [30:15]
Final Note: Holly Kane's insightful discussions offer a blend of personal resilience, professional expertise, and a deep love for motorsports. Her contributions to "NASCAR Mavericks" and her ongoing coverage continue to enrich the racing community, making her a valued voice in the industry.