Podcast Summary: Herm & Schrader – Tony Stewart On His First NHRA Top Fuel Win, Being A New Dad, & His Two Biggest Regrets

Episode Title: Tony Stewart On His First NHRA Top Fuel Win, Being A New Dad, & His Two Biggest Regrets
Release Date: April 17, 2025
Hosts: Kenny Wallace and Ken Schrader
Guests: Tony Stewart
Length: Approximately 75 minutes

1. Introduction and Episode Milestone

Timestamp: [00:33] - [03:09]

Kenny Wallace introduces the episode by celebrating the 100th episode of "Kenny Conversation," an informal segment on the show. He warmly welcomes Tony Stewart, referring to him as "the great Tony Stewart," acknowledging his latest achievements and contributions to motorsports. Kenny highlights Tony's foundational role in the podcast's journey, mentioning that Tony was the very first guest on the show two years prior.

Notable Quote:

Kenny Wallace [02:33]: "You were the very first Kenny conversation, right? Two years ago. So I just want to let you know, Charlie's gonna put a big 100 and thank you for doing this."

2. Tony’s First NHRA Top Fuel Win

Timestamp: [03:09] - [09:26]

Tony Stewart shares the exhilaration of securing his first NHRA Top Fuel win. Drawing parallels to his 2009 NASCAR victory with Stewart Haas Racing at the All-Star Race in Charlotte, he describes the emotional weight lifted off both himself and his team. Tony emphasizes the historical significance of his achievement, stating that he is the first person in motorsports history to win championships in IndyCar, NASCAR, USAC Triple Crown, and now Top Fuel drag racing.

Notable Quote:

Tony Stewart [07:29]: "There isn't over the course in the history of motorsports, it has never been done. So to be the first person to do that is just, and keep adding to it."

3. The Emotional Impact of Racing and Tragedy

Timestamp: [09:26] - [33:53]

Kenny and Tony delve into the emotional complexities of racing, particularly focusing on recent tragic events within the motorsports community. Tony recounts receiving news of friends and colleagues passing away, highlighting how these losses weigh heavily on him despite his personal victories. He acknowledges the strength his wife, Leah, provides during such challenging times, describing her as a pillar of support and an essential part of his racing career.

Notable Quote:

Tony Stewart [31:53]: "I think it makes me better of wrapping my arms around what life is about."

4. The Importance of Team and Support Systems

Timestamp: [33:53] - [46:01]

The conversation shifts to the critical role of teamwork and support systems in Tony's racing career. He praises his wife Leah for her multifaceted contributions—ranging from managing the team to providing emotional support. Tony explains how Leah's ability to keep him focused and motivated has been instrumental in his transition to Top Fuel racing. He also touches upon the collaborative dynamics within his team, emphasizing the importance of communication and mutual respect.

Notable Quote:

Tony Stewart [33:53]: "She can build a race team from scratch. She's done it before for one of her previous car owners. She can work on the cars, she can manage people."

5. Tony's Personal Growth and Balancing Family

Timestamp: [46:01] - [61:12]

Tony reflects on his evolution both as a racer and as a father. He discusses how becoming a new dad has reshaped his priorities, balancing the intense demands of racing with his responsibilities at home. Tony shares personal anecdotes about his relationship with his son Dominic and how his family life provides a grounding influence amidst the high-octane world of motorsports.

Notable Quote:

Tony Stewart [46:01]: "I'm finding that balance because I tried the music thing. I tried playing it. I would play it real loud in the lounge when I change and stuff and get all excited and then get in the car and I'd relax again."

6. Tony's Diverse Racing Career and Regrets

Timestamp: [61:12] - [73:17]

Kenny and Tony explore the breadth of Tony's racing career, highlighting his accomplishments across various motorsports disciplines, including NASCAR, IndyCar, Sprint Cars, and NHRA drag racing. Tony candidly discusses his two biggest regrets:

1. Avoiding a Tragic Event: He mentions a specific race in New York that led to tragic consequences, expressing a wish he hadn't attended the event to prevent the ensuing tragedy.

2. Interpersonal Relationships in NASCAR: Tony reflects on his intense focus during his NASCAR career, admitting that his drive to win sometimes strained relationships. He expresses a desire to have treated people better and acknowledges that his competitive nature may have alienated some.

Notable Quotes:

Tony Stewart [69:56]: "During my NASCAR career and the majority of it, I would have loved to go back and treat people better. I was so intense with racing."

Tony Stewart [73:39]: "We make the finals, and I win the race and can't even feel like I could celebrate on there because immediately, as soon as I get out of the car, I'm going to get a notice saying you get to sleep on the couch."

7. Conclusion and Future Endeavors

Timestamp: [73:09] - [75:14]

As the conversation wraps up, Kenny acknowledges Tony’s ongoing contributions and the legacy he's creating in motorsports. They discuss future plans, including Leah’s potential return to Top Fuel racing. Tony humorously contemplates the dynamics of racing against his wife and the logistical challenges it would entail. The episode concludes with heartfelt goodbyes, emphasizing the strong camaraderie between the hosts and Tony.

Notable Quote:

Tony Stewart [75:14]: "I'm glad to be with you my friend. I always love talking to you and definitely love hanging out with you away from the racetrack too. We get to be us and have a lot of fun together."

Key Insights and Takeaways

• Historical Achievement: Tony Stewart's first NHRA Top Fuel win marks a significant milestone in motorsports history, showcasing his versatility and dedication across multiple racing disciplines.

• Emotional Resilience: The intersection of personal triumphs and professional tragedies highlights the emotional resilience required in the high-stakes world of racing.

• Team Dynamics: The essential support provided by family and team members underscores the collaborative nature of success in motorsports.

• Personal Growth: Balancing intense professional commitments with family life is a recurring theme, illustrating Tony's evolution as both a competitor and a father.

• Reflection and Regret: Tony's candid reflection on past regrets offers valuable insights into the personal costs of competitive drive and the importance of interpersonal relationships.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Kenny Wallace [02:33]:

  "You were the very first Kenny conversation, right? Two years ago. So I just want to let you know, Charlie's gonna put a big 100 and thank you for doing this."

• Tony Stewart [07:29]:

  "There isn't over the course in the history of motorsports, it has never been done. So to be the first person to do that is just, and keep adding to it."

• Tony Stewart [31:53]:

  "I think it makes me better of wrapping my arms around what life is about."

• Tony Stewart [33:53]:

  "She can build a race team from scratch. She's done it before for one of her previous car owners. She can work on the cars, she can manage people."

• Tony Stewart [46:01]:

  "I'm finding that balance because I tried the music thing. I tried playing it. I would play it real loud in the lounge when I change and stuff and get all excited and then get in the car and I'd relax again."

• Tony Stewart [69:56]:

  "During my NASCAR career and the majority of it, I would have loved to go back and treat people better. I was so intense with racing."

• Tony Stewart [73:39]:

  "We make the finals, and I win the race and can't even feel like I could celebrate on there because immediately, as soon as I get out of the car, I'm going to get a notice saying you get to sleep on the couch."

• Tony Stewart [75:14]:

  "I'm glad to be with you my friend. I always love talking to you and definitely love hanging out with you away from the racetrack too. We get to be us and have a lot of fun together."

Conclusion

This episode of "Herm & Schrader" provides an in-depth look into Tony Stewart's multifaceted racing career, his emotional journey as a new father, and his introspective reflections on past regrets. Through candid conversations, Tony offers listeners a blend of high-octane racing insights and heartfelt personal narratives, making it a compelling listen for both motorsports enthusiasts and those interested in personal growth and resilience.