Dale Earnhardt Jr. sits down with longtime NASCAR crew chief and former ESPN television analyst Tim Brewer to learn more about his legendary career calling the shots for some of the sport’s all-time greats. After growing up within earshot of Bowman Gray Stadium, Tim established himself as a hard worker and found a position as crew chief for Junior Johnson and Associates, helping Cale Yarborough and Darrell Waltrip earn Cup championships in 1978 and 1981 respectively. Tim’s work ethic was developed in his early teen years when he left his path of education to join local racer Ernie Shaw in the NASCAR Grand American ranks. Tim had a short stint with Tiny Lund before settling in with fellow Winston Salem native Richard Childress, becoming one of the youngest crew chiefs in NASCAR history at the age of 18. Tim explains that he got hired onto the famed Holly Farms team when Herb Nab vacated the chief position and Junior Johnson made a call to Childress. Tim and Travis Carter came on board in 1978 and helped guide Yarborough to ten wins and a third consecutive Cup season crown. Tim and Dale also discuss his years spent working with Waltrip and what made him leave Johnson’s team in 1982 to work for MC Anderson, reuniting with Yarborough. He also details how Raymond Beadle came to NASCAR ownership, creating the Blue Max Racing group with driver Tim Richmond in 1983. Tim talks about his friendship and competition with Dale Earnhardt Sr., his falling out with Junior Johnson in the early 90s and how he came to become an Emmy-award winning television analyst after he stepped down from the pit box. He closes the show by sharing a few "innovation stories" from over the years. 

It was a thrilling dash to the finish at Watkins Glen, and Dale Earnhardt Jr. is back in the Dirty Mo Media studio with a new edition of Dirty Air. Special co-host TJ Majors joins to recap the race and weigh in on the latest hot topics in the racing world:Was NASCAR right to park Ryan Blaney?NASCAR team crash carts were getting out of controlPlayoff drivers struggled at the GlenThe tire was a big improvementRace winner Chris Buescher calls inWhat to do about increasing driver aggression

September 11, 2001, was a day that changed our country forever. Less than two weeks after the tragedy, NASCAR returned to the track, offering a brief escape, a sense of unity, and something to cheer for during a time of overwhelming grief and uncertainty. This week on DJD Reloaded, we’re taking you back to that unforgettable race. We’ll be joined by the people there – two of the men who helped Dale Jr. capture that emotional victory. It’s a Throwback Thursday you won’t want to miss. This is the story of a race that meant more than just points, more than just a trophy, and will be forever remembered as a race that brought fans together. Hear DEI No. 8 Bud team members Jeff Clark and Joey Meier talk about that iconic race, with stories leading up to and following the race that you’ve never heard before.

Dale Earnhardt Jr. sets out to learn more about the world of open wheel motorsports as he sits down with the CEO of McLaren Racing Zak Brown. Big news brought the open wheel executive to town as McLaren joined Hendrick Motorsports in announcing that Kyle Larson will return to the Indianapolis 500 in 2025 for another attempt at the Memorial Day double. Zak explains how the partnership with Rick Hendrick came together through an adoration for his race team, which he views as a North American equivalent of McLaren. He also credits Larson’s versatility with being reminiscent of yesteryear’s drivers like A.J. Foyt and Mario Andretti. As McLaren continues to flourish open wheel racing, Zak says his sights are set on becoming a top-outfit in the sports car ranks, competing in both WEC and IMSA in the future.Zak’s background in racing can be traced to the 1981 Long Beach Grand Prix, which he attended with his parents and brother. A successful appearance on Wheel of Fortune when he was 13 and advice from Mario himself led to a door opening in go-kart racing, which Zak entered and never looked back. After finding a knack for securing sponsorship, Zak realized he was better fit on the marketing end of the sport and started his own company, Just Marketing, Inc., which quickly rose to being one of the top businesses in racing. Zak would sell the company and find himself at a professional crossroads before being faced with the ultimate career decision: be in line to one day run Formula One or help direct McLaren Racing. Thanks to his love of competition, Zak took the position at the legendary race team and helped it return to its former glory at the forefront of the racing world.Dale and Zak share one strong common thread, through Dale Earnhardt Sr.'s 1980s Nova, which currently resides in the JR Motorsports garage. Zak was a longtime owner of the vehicle before Dale Jr. was able to acquire it through auction, and he shares an incredible story of how he was able to confirm its authenticity.

The NASCAR Playoffs are underway, and Dale Earnhardt Jr. is in the studio to unpack the action from Atlanta. The NASCAR charter agreement has progressed and several drivers are in early points predicaments after the weekend:Atlanta is already showing signs of wearWhat caused Kyle Larson’s car to snap into the wall?Denny Hamlin’s conservative approach during the racePlayoff points update23XI and Front Row hold out on signing the new charter agreementRace winner Joey Logano calls into the showThe voicemail Dale left for AndrewDale's new evening routine that Amy isn't a big fan of

In this special episode of DJD Reloaded, we’re taking the show on the road! Join The Athletic’s motorsports journalists and hosts of The Teardown, Jeff Gluck and Jordan Bianchi, as they take you behind the scenes of their first-ever exclusive driver sit-downs at NASCAR Playoff Media Day. But don’t expect the same usual questions you’ve heard drivers answer before.  These guys were candid, unfiltered, and so much fun. From surprising insights to raw reactions, this episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at the personalities and pressure fueling the Playoff contenders. Plus, Amy Earnhardt joined Dale Jr. on the Download for #AskJR – or, shall we say, #AskAmy – this week, so you won’t want to miss it!

Join Dale Earnhardt Jr. as he sits down with former NASCAR Crew Chief and team owner Travis Carter to discuss his past working with some of the most legendary race car drivers in history. During his two-decade-long time in the sport, he was a championship-winning crew chief with Benny Parsons in 1973 and was Cale Yarborough’s crew chief during the iconic 1979 Daytona 500. Over the years, Travis also worked with Bobby Allison, Junior Johnson, and Darrell Waltrip.  He also speaks on his time working for Penske, the teams who sought his employment, and the rise and fall of his team, Travis Carter Motorsports.Listen as Travis shares stories, including his friendship with Dale Earnhardt Sr., his start in NASCAR, and his complete exit from the sport.21+ and present in North Carolina. Opt in req. Wager requirements apply. Bonuses awarded as nonwithdrawable bonus bets or profit boost tokens. Restrictions apply including bonus expiration. See terms and conditions at fanduel.com/sportsbook. Gambling problem? Call 877-718-5543 or visit morethanagame.nc.gov.

It’s the first Tuesday of the month, so that means Dale Earnhardt Jr. is joined by his wife Amy in the Dirty Mo Media studio for Dirty Air. After an exciting conclusion to the NASCAR regular season at Darlington, there was plenty to chat about:Darlington is a pinnacle of stock car racingChase Briscoe’s Game Seven momentRace winner Chase Briscoe joins the showKyle Busch’s late race chargeHow did Dale’s February Playoff predictions hold up?Dale and Amy have a CARS Tour adventure in Florence, South Carolina21+ and present in North Carolina. Opt in req. Wager requirements apply. Bonuses awarded as nonwithdrawable bonus bets or profit boost tokens. Restrictions apply including bonus expiration. See terms and conditions at fanduel.com/sportsbook. Gambling problem? Call 877-718-5543 or visit morethanagame.nc.gov.

On this episode of DJD Reloaded, we're joined by the newest voice in the NASCAR NBC broadcast booth, Leigh Diffey. He talks about his transition into NASCAR, the most incredible sports moments he's called, and his excitement to be covering NASCAR. Leigh also gives us his message for NASCAR fans and jokes about being called "British." Next, we sit down with Parker Retzlaff to discuss his second career Cup Series start and the controversy surrounding the final restart. If Parker could do it over again, would he do anything different? We get his side of the story and see how he's handling the scrutiny while preparing for Darlington. Finally, we have a fresh batch of your questions in Ask Jr. where Dale shares how he feels about the return of the No. 88 to the Cup Series.

Dale Earnhardt Jr. welcomes legendary NASCAR Crew Chief Buddy Parrott to the Dirty Mo Media Studio to learn more about the pivotal role he played in some of NASCAR’s greatest moments. Growing up in Gastonia, North Carolina, Buddy participated in competitive diving all through high school before finding his way to a race at Birmingham International Raceway on behalf of Huggins Tire Service. Buddy would take a job with the company working as a tire man for their NASCAR events, mounting tires for the entire Cup field on a regular basis. It was through this service that he met the legendary Harry Hyde, and not long after Buddy would approach him for an opportunity to work on his famed K&K Insurance Dodge team. Buddy explains that his time with Harry was invaluable, and he considered him to be his mentor, teaching him everything he knew about race cars and racing setups.Buddy would make the decision to split from the team when Kentuckian Ferrel Harris came to the shop to purchase a racer and some Raymond Fox-prepared engines. While working with Harris, Buddy also spent time teaming up with Robert Gee to help prepare his dirt cars, which were chauffeured by none other than Carolina ace Hayward Plyler and a young Dale Earnhardt. Dale Jr. was surprised to learn that Buddy served as crew chief for his father’s 1976 Atlanta 500 attempt in a car owned by Johnny Ray, which was famously destroyed in a crash. Buddy would move on to the DiGard Motorsports outfit to team with Darrell Waltrip and take the NASCAR Cup scene by storm in the late 1970s. Listeners can hear all of this, plus more about Buddy’s time working on Harry Ranier’s Gray Ghost, helping Richard Petty score his 200th win, and the 1990 Daytona 500.21+ and present in North Carolina. Opt in req. Wager requirements apply. Bonuses awarded as nonwithdrawable bonus bets or profit boost tokens. Restrictions apply including bonus expiration. See terms and conditions at fanduel.com/sportsbook. Gambling problem? Call 877-718-5543 or visit morethanagame.nc.gov

After a surprising finish at Daytona, Dale Earnhardt Jr. is back in the studio to catch up on the latest racing headlines on this week’s edition of Dirty Air. It's a star-studded lineup on the show this week, with Bubba Wallace, Harrison Burton and Jeff Burton all jumping on the show. Harrison Burton’s unpredictable win means the Playoffs cutline moved again, and several drivers face a must-win situation rolling into Darlington:Harrison wins number 100 for the legendary Wood Brothers“Winning the lottery” is a good thing for smaller teamsWas Parker Retzlaff in the wrong?Bubba Wallace stops by the studioThe Playoff bubble shifts againNASCAR returns to Mexico City in 2025

In this episode of DJD Reloaded, we are joined by NASCAR Executive Vice President and Chief Media and Revenue Officer Brian Herbst, who explains how race start times are determined. Learn about the factors influencing these decisions, from broadcast windows and viewership trends to the balance between TV audiences and trackside fans. We also discuss Richard Childress Racing’s penalty appeal, and what it means for the team moving forward. Jeff Gluck and Jordan Bianchi, co-hosts of The Teardown join and explain the nuances of the appeals process and what happens next. Plus, the fans ask Dale Jr. their burning questions in Ask Jr.

Dale Earnhardt Jr. is joined by longtime NASCAR competitor and winner of the 1990 Daytona 500 Derrike Cope to learn about his journey from the Pacific Northwest to capturing one of the greatest upset victories in racing history. After growing up with a father who competed in the NHRA Drag Racing ranks, Derrike learned the finer points of being a mechanic working in various speed shops on the West Coast. After his initial focus in life of baseball was curbed by a devastating injury in college, Derrike followed in his father and brother Darren’s footsteps and strapped into the driver’s seat. After competing in late model races, Derrike would find himself on a path that would lead him to the heart of the fast-growing world of stock cars through the NASCAR Winston West Series. Dale and Derrike give listeners some insight into the former Winston West outfit, which ran from 1971 to 2003 and was essentially its own separate entity sanctioning Cup racing on the West Coast.Derrike explains that Winston West fixture George Jefferson was instrumental in helping Derrike get his first Cup ride, and it was in this series that Derrike found his footing and learned the craft of racing top-speed stock cars before making the journey east. Derrike’s initial efforts out east were plagued by financial difficulties, but thanks to a relationship with Purolator he eventually found his way to Bob Whitcomb and they established a state-of-the-art operation with the legendary Buddy Parrott at the helm. This potent combination armed with a Dorton-built engine set sail for Daytona in 1990 and brought home stock car immortality when a dominant Dale Earnhardt Sr. ran over debris on the final lap and slowed. Dale and Derrike recap what he remembers from this memorable week, as well as his time racing for Cale Yarborough, Bobby Allison, working with StarCom, and what he occupies his time with today.  21+ and present in North Carolina. Full price of NFL Sunday Ticket will be automatically charged seasonally after free trial. No refunds. Terms, restrictions, and embargoes apply.  Gambling problem? Call 877-718-5543 or visit morethanagame.nc.gov

The NASCAR Cup race may have been delayed until Monday, but Dale Earnhardt Jr. is right on schedule with this week’s edition of Dirty Air. After a late-race caution caused much debate among racing fans, Tyler Reddick held on in double overtime to win his second race of the season:Did Martin Truex Jr.’s crash warrant a yellow flag?Does NASCAR change its officiating throughout the race, case by case?How will NASCAR respond to Corey LaJoie’s flip?The great start-time debateNASCAR’s 2025 schedule is starting to get out The NASCAR Playoff bubble pictureRace winner Tyler Reddick calls into the show21+ and present in North Carolina. Full price of NFL Sunday Ticket will be automatically charged seasonally after free trial. No refunds. Terms, restrictions, and embargoes apply.  Gambling problem? Call 877-718-5543 or visit morethanagame.nc.gov.

After Austin Dillon’s controversial last-lap decisions at the Richmond Cup race, NASCAR stripped RCR of Dillon’s Playoff eligibility with an unprecedented penalty. Did NASCAR do the right thing? Is the line for hard racing now defined? We discuss the limits of aggressive driving with Mark Martin and Dale Jr. in this episode as they react to the news.

Dale Earnhardt Jr. is joined in the studio by former NASCAR racer and Driver Performance Manager for Chevrolet Racing Josh Wise. The two discuss Josh's post driving career, and his influential role in coaching NASCAR's top athletes.After moving into the stock car ranks as a champion dirt sprint car racer, Josh spent ten years moving through the NASCAR ranks before finding his calling to become a driver development coach and manager. Josh admits that though he was the first driver in Toyota’s development program, he was ill-prepared for the world of fendered racing and feels he failed during his time behind the wheel in NASCAR. In 2016, he came to the realization that he was ready to end his pursuit of being a race car driver and wanted to move into a position to help other drivers unlock their full potential. Josh explains that after setting his sights on this goal, he struck up a conversation with Max Jones at Chip Ganassi Racing and pitched the concept to him. Max suggested he work with a young and upcoming racer in their ranks who needed help with focus, who just happened to be Kyle Larson. Wise Optimization hit the ground running with Larson, Jamie McMurray, Tyler Reddick and Brennan Poole and quickly grew from a single-man operation focusing on workout regimens to an all-encompassing driver overhaul program. Josh attended night school to earn a degree in psychology so he could help drivers with their lives away from the track, which he found to be a major key in growth potential. Today, the operation is a facet of Team Chevy and helps some of the most successful drivers in stock car racing hone their craft.21+ and present in North Carolina. Opt in req. Wager requirements apply. Bonuses awarded as nonwithdrawable bonus bets or profit boost tokens. Restrictions apply including bonus expiration. See terms and conditions at fanduel.com/sportsbook. Gambling problem? Call 877-718-5543 or visit morethanagame.nc.gov

Dale Earnhardt Jr. returns to the Dirty Mo Studio to react to the highly controversial NASCAR Cup race finish at Richmond on this episode of Dirty Air. As the racing world awaits NASCAR’s weekly penalty report, Dale weighs in with this take on the issues:Ricky Stenhouse sets up calamitous endingWas Austin Dillon’s bump on Joey Logano against the driver code?Did Austin Dillon intentionally get into Denny Hamlin?What will the NASCAR penalty report say?Race winner Austin Dillon joins the showThe Goodyear soft tire worked! 21+ and present in North Carolina. Opt in req. Wager requirements apply. Bonuses awarded as nonwithdrawable bonus bets or profit boost tokens. Restrictions apply including bonus expiration. See terms and conditions at fanduel.com/sportsbook. Gambling problem? Call 877-718-5543 or visit morethanagame.nc.gov

In this episode, Jeff Gluck, Jordan Bianchi, and Guest Host Hannah Newhouse dive deep into the latest news in the NASCAR world. They kick off with updates from the two-week break, exploring what’s next for driver Cory LaJoie and who could potentially be the next driver of the No. 7. Jeff and Jordan also explain why NASCAR might reject foreign investors for the future of the sport. The conversation then shifts to the highly anticipated 2025 NASCAR schedule and the surprising return of Juan Pablo Montoya to the track. The spotlight also falls on rising star Connor Zilisch, with comparisons to other young talents and predictions for his impact on the sport. Plus, Max Papis joins from Italy to weigh in on the new driver’s hype along with Connor’s ARCA crew chief, Shane Huffman. Rounding out the episode, the hosts share their thoughts on the upcoming Richmond race. Plus, hear Dale answer your questions in Ask Jr.

Dale Earnhardt Jr. sits down with one of the top prospects in the stock car racing world Connor Zilisch to learn about his career and upbringing in the sport. Owner of Trackhouse Racing Justin Marks joins them to announce that Connor will be racing full-time in the NASCAR Xfinity Series in 2025 in partnership with JR Motorsports.

Dale Earnhardt Jr. is fresh off the plane from a vacation in Ireland, and joined by special co-host TJ Majors for this week’s episode of Dirty Air. Even though we are into the second week of auto racing’s Olympic summer break, there was still plenty to chat about:• Stock market turbulence• East coast storms are causing worry• Tim Dugger calls into to chat about their Ireland getaway  • NASCAR Cup Mid-season review• Catching up on the industry newsFor more content head over to our YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com/@DirtyMoMedia

This week on the Dale Jr. Download, Amy stopped by and served as co-host of Dirty Air. She shared lots of fun stories about Dale, including a special edition of Ask Jr. with Dale & Amy that hasn't aired yet on the Download feed! Carla Gebhart is joined by Dale's niece, Karsyn Elledge, as they react to the best moments between Dale and Amy. Plus, we quiz Karsyn on how well she knows her uncle with a trivia game at the end of the show.  

Dale Earnhardt Jr. welcomes longtime NASCAR competitors Elliott and Hermie Sadler to the studio on this episode of the Dale Jr. Download. After growing up in Emporia, Virginia, the accomplished brother duo picked up their father’s interest in racing and entered into the go-kart ranks. They explain that their father owned dirt cars that competed on the short tracks of Virginia and North Carolina and were maintained in their family-owned Chevy dealership. Hermie would win a World Karting Association national championship for dirt karts in 1988 and would graduate to late model stock cars with the support of his parents. Hermie explains that after initially struggling, his father tried to convince him to give up his racing career in pursuit of something new. In what was supposed to be one last attempt behind the wheel, Hermie would win his first-ever late model race in Manassas, inspiring him to continue onward.When Hermie graduated into the NASCAR Busch Series and found early success by winning his first race and the Rookie of the Year title in 1993, Elliott followed him up the racing ladder, occupying the now vacant family late model seat. Elliott would keep the Sadler name in victory lane by winning the 1995 track championship at South Boston before making a splash in the NASCAR Busch ranks himself. Elliott tells the story of getting a call from the Wood Brothers to drive the famed 21 NASCAR Cup ride and how he scored an emotional victory for the team at Bristol. Meanwhile, Hermie struggled on his path through NASCAR and would eventually settle into the broadcast booth, where he became one of the most known on-air personalities in the sport. Elliott takes listeners through his journey from Yates Racing to Evernham Motorsports before moving back to the NASCAR Xfinity ranks, where he’d finish up his career at JR Motorsports.

NASCAR may be on break for the Olympics, but Dale Earnhardt Jr. is back in the studio and he brought his wife Amy in for a special edition of Dirty Air. The Download crew teed up Dale and Amy to play a round of The Marriage Game, and of course hilarity ensued:Houseboat debacleSilly argumentsWeird fears and habitsDale-ismsPlus, as Dale says, there WAS a race this past weekend. Dale Jr. weighs in on the eventful Cars Tour race and welcomes race winner Ronnie Bassett Jr. for our weekly call-in. 

What is the state of Late Model Stock racing? Well, Dale Jr. had a lot to say about it after he competed in the 16th annual Hampton Heat 200 at Langley Speedway last Saturday night which treated fans to a physical battle in the closing laps between Brenden Queen, aka “Butterbean”, and Connor Hall. In the end, Butterbean emerged victorious, earning his third Hampton Heat win, tying C.E. Falk III for the most all-time. Dale Jr. came home with a 5th place finish. Today on DJD Reloaded, we’ve got Dale Jr. and Butterbean in-studio, plus Butterbean’s crew chief, Lee Pulliam, calling in to recap an exciting Hampton Heat, and discuss the state of Late Model Stock racing. 

Dale Earnhardt Jr. sits down with Dale Earnhardt’s best friend, Donnie Rives. Donnie has kept these stories to himself, until today. It’s a heartfelt conversation swapping stories about the Intimidator from two people who knew him best. Donnie's first connection with the Earnhardt’s was through Ralph. Ralph’s signature “Earnhardt grin” left a lasting impression on those who knew him. Donnie shares moments of bird hunting with Ralph, along with the valuable racing advice he passed along to him. Both Dale Jr. and Donnie reminisced about hunting experiences with Sr. and came to an agreement that the Intimidator was an exceptional deer tracker, showcasing his skills in the great outdoors. With as strong of a friendship the two had, Rives shares why he turned down opportunities within the industry, particularly a position at DEI. The two finish off the conversation talking about Rives’ relationship with Teresa Earnhardt, where he details his respect for both her and Dale’s legacy. They discuss Dale Earnhardt’s passing and share heart-to-heart moments talking about what Dale Sr means to both of them. It’s an episode you won’t want to miss. 21+ and present in North Carolina. Opt in req. Wager requirements apply. Bonuses awarded as nonwithdrawable bonus bets or profit boost tokens. Restrictions apply including bonus expiration. See terms and conditions at fanduel.com/sportsbook. Gambling problem? Call 877-718-5543 or visit morethanagame.nc.gov.

Dale Earnhardt Jr. is back in the Dirty Mo Media studio to discuss the heavily debated Brickyard 400 finish, and has an opinion that may surprise you. There was a lot of controversy at Indianapolis this year and the Dirty Air crew unpacks all of it:Should NASCAR have waived off the final start?How does Ryan Blaney feel about it now?Did NASCAR make the right call with the final yellow flag?Race winning crew chief Cliff Daniels joins the showPenalties or warnings for blending back onto the trackDuring the Ask Jr. segment of the show, listeners sent in questions regarding:Team Xbox or Playstation?Being in the Nickelback “Rockstar” music videoDale’s choice in glassesDale’s next project car21+ and present in North Carolina. Opt in req. Wager requirements apply. Bonuses awarded as nonwithdrawable bonus bets or profit boost tokens. Restrictions apply including bonus expiration. See terms and conditions at fanduel.com/sportsbook. Gambling problem? Call 877-718-5543 or visit morethanagame.nc.gov.

30 years ago, NASCAR ran the first Brickyard 400 at the storied Indianapolis Motor Speedway that featured the largest crowd to ever witness a NASCAR race. Today on DJD Reloaded, we relive iconic moments from one of NASCAR’s Crown Jewels with a pair of iconic drivers. Dale Jarrett, a 2-time Brickyard winner, and the man behind the tradition of “kissing the bricks” calls in to share his stories. Plus, Jamie McMurray, a driver who won the Brickyard in 2010 amidst a historical season gives us his favorite memories from racing on the oval at Indy. And we’ll even hear from IMS President, Doug Boles, on what this event means for the Speedway, and how this race has evolved since its inception in 1994. 

Dale Earnhardt Jr. sits down with NASCAR Hall of Fame executive director and former MRN Pit Reporter Winston Kelley to share over 30 years of stories from behind the microphone.Winston's career is rooted in his passion for the sport of NASCAR, dating back to his first job working on road for free. From there, Kelley has practically seen it all. He recalls working iconic races in the sport's history, including Cale Yarbrough, Richard Petty, and Jeff Gordon's final races. Winston was also Dale Earnhardt's final interview at the 2001 Daytona 500, and recalls Earnhardt's mood on the grid before the race. With a career behind a microphone comes difficult moments. Kelley remembers interviews with Dale Earnhardt after his multiple heartbreak losses in the Daytona 500, and the moment he was caught in the middle of the feud between Rusty Wallace and Earnhardt. As the Executive Director of the NASCAR Hall of Fame, Winston is living out his own childhood dream working with his heroes and building the legacy of the Hall. Kelley has been with the Hall since they broke ground to build the museum in 2006, and describes what it's like to watch inductees go through the process of entering NASCAR's most prestigious club. They close the interview discussing the best and worst interviews of his career. Between cutting it up with Tony Stewart after the race, to the poorly worded question that cost him big, Winston has no shortage of great stories to share. 21+ and present in North Carolina. Opt in req. Wager requirements apply. Bonuses awarded as nonwithdrawable bonus bets or profit boost tokens. Restrictions apply including bonus expiration. See terms and conditions at fanduel.com/sportsbook. Gambling problem? Call 877-718-5543 or visit morethanagame.nc.gov

Dale Earnhardt Jr. is back in the studio for this week’s episode of Dirty Air to recap all of the action from Pocono. After a weekend full of action from the Tricky Triangle, there is plenty to discuss:Dale picks his NCAA Football '25 Dynasty TeamWas Corey LaJoie and Kyle Busch's on-track contact a racing deal?Should Bubba Wallace have been fined $50k for dooring Alex Bowman at Chicago?Ryan Blaney calls inDale recalls epic paintball battles between the 48 & 88 teams on the roadDuring the Ask Jr. portion of the episode, listeners wanted to know Dale’s opinion on:Tire options for the Richmond raceSting Ray Robb's crash at IowaDale is back on track this weekend 21+ and present in North Carolina. Opt in req. Wager requirements apply. Bonuses awarded as nonwithdrawable bonus bets or profit boost tokens. Restrictions apply including bonus expiration. See terms and conditions at fanduel.com/sportsbook. Gambling problem? Call 877-718-5543 or visit morethanagame.nc.gov.

Dale Earnhardt Jr. continues his conversation with longtime NASCAR crew chief Gary Nelson to discuss his time at Hendrick Motorsports, building SABCO with Felix Sabates, and his move to the officiating side as the Winston Cup Director.Gary details how Rick Hendrick used his car salesman skills to sell him on a job at HMS. Teamed up with Geoff Bodine, the two went on to beat Dale Earnhardt in the Daytona 500. Nelson shares stories of Bodine and legendary Crew Chief Harry Hyde that inspired the plot of Days Of Thunder. In 1988, Gary was taken on by Felix Sabates to help build SABCO. With Kyle Petty as the driver, he shares the moment that changed the entire history of that program. He also shares when he was convinced he’d be fired after a shouting match with Kyle Petty at Dover.They close the show by discussing Nelson’s time as the NASCAR Winston Cup Director. Gary talks about the tragic on-track crashes he witnessed firsthand that stay with him today. After numerous fatal accidents, it was up to him and his team to figure out how to make the sport safer. His multi-layered career and honest storytelling make this interview an instant Download classic. 

Dale Earnhardt Jr. sits down with longtime NASCAR crew chief Gary Nelson, who worked with legendary drivers like Ricky Rudd, Bobby Allison, and Geoff Bodine. In the first installment of this conversation, Gary dives into the intriguing world of NASCAR innovation.If you raced in the 70s with a 100% legal car, you’d be out of business, and Nelson is here to prove it. He shares stories of finding ways around NASCAR’s scales, new innovations in aerodynamics, and how many of his cars looked a little “too good” to the inspectors. Nelson also dives into the early days of his career, discussing his relationship with Robert Gee, learning moments with Darrell Waltrip, and how he was directly responsible for Dale Earnhardt’s first win at Bristol.Dale Jr and Gary also break down his give-and-take relationship with Bobby Allison, and what it took for the two of them to finally find success. It’s a conversation so good we had to break it into two parts. 

Dale Earnhardt Jr. is back in the studio after vacation (or was it?) for this week’s episode of Dirty Air. After an eventful weekend in the streets of the Windy City, there is plenty to discuss, and Dale is joined by special co-host TJ Majors to lend his perspective from the spotter’s stand:Dale doesn’t trust his golf cartThe rain won’t stay away from ChicagoSVG and Larson have up and down weekendRetaliation after the checkered flagThe Playoff window is tightening for non-winnersTyler Reddick had a shot on the last lapDuring the Ask Jr. portion of the episode, listeners wanted to know Dale’s opinion on:Ryan Blaney’s chances for the ESPY “Driver of the Year” awardNASCAR’s EV ProjectRodney Childers moving to Spire Motorsports in 2025 to work on the 7 car

Carla Gebhart is joined by The Teardown’s Jeff Gluck on this week’s DJD Reloaded. We react to the Carson Hocevar penalty and how it could affect his long-term career prospects in the NASCAR Cup Series. With Josh Berry’s move to the Wood Brothers announced, where’s a possible landing spot for Rodney Childers? Plus, “The Professor” from Dirty Mo Dough, Russell Weinrich, calls in to dissect the data on whether the most dominant car actually finds its way to Victory Lane. Numbers never lie and they may surprise you. And finally, we hear from the winner of this year’s Denny Hamlin Bracket Challenge. 

Dale Earnhardt Jr. sits down for a conversation with his longtime friend and 2017 NASCAR Cup Champion Martin Truex Jr. With his recent retirement announcement in the rearview mirror, Dale Jr. is anxious to connect with Martin and see what his plans are for the future. At the time of the interview, Martin is preparing to embark on a fishing trip in his home state of New Jersey, which gives listeners a good idea of what he’ll be spending his time doing once he’s no longer behind the wheel full-time. Martin explains that over the last couple of years, he had been making more trips home to New Jersey and enjoyed connecting with his family and friends, so he recently purchased a house in his hometown.  Dale inquires as to what kind of racing fans might see Martin doing in the future, to which he answers that he’ll likely be running the Daytona 500, some Xfinity events, and even a NASCAR Truck in the coming years. Martin also expresses interest in getting behind the wheel of a NASCAR modified and competing in the Turkey Derby at his home track, Wall Stadium, where he started his racing career in the late 90s. On the topic of hunting and being a full-time sportsman, Dale plants the seed of Martin possibly hosting his own outdoors show, helping to further the brand and mission state of Bass Pro Shops, of which Martin has had a long-running partnership with since first coming together at Chance 2 Motorsports in 2003.  The conversation looks at the two halves of Martin’s NASCAR Cup career and how his journey to the top of stock car racing almost didn’t happen, his working relationship with Cole Pearn and what his thoughts are currently on the NextGen Car. 

After a hot NASCAR weekend in Nashville, Dale Earnhardt Jr. gets back behind the microphone for another episode of Dirty Air. In a race that took five overtime restarts to complete and produced an unexpected winner in Joey Logano, there was a lot to chat about:A box of Butler's Orchard pickles and update on the Titanic Lego setDenny Hamlin and Kyle Larson have a rivalryDoes Carson Hocevar deserve a penalty for spinning Burton under caution?Christopher Bell is looking strong this seasonShould NASCAR have unlimited overtime attempts?How hot is too hot for drivers inside the race car?Race winner Joey Logano calls in Where Josh Berry will likely wind up for the 2025 seasonWhen the guys took to YouTube Live for the Ask Jr. segment, listeners sent in questions regarding:Why Dale doesn’t like concrete race surfacesAndy Petree leaving Richard Childress RacingWhat recovery after a hot race looks like

Our buddy John Force was involved in a terrifying crash in his NHRA Funny Car on Sunday afternoon during the Virginia Nationals. We want to send our well wishes to John for a speedy recovery, and can’t wait to see him back behind the wheel. If there is one person who has ever been on the Dale Jr. Download that is still brought up most, it’s probably John Force. We’re going to look back at some of the greatest moments from that interview and also talk to John’s friend and competitor, Matt Hagan, about John’s fiery competitiveness and his charismatic - and hilarious - personality. Plus, ask any driver, and they’ll tell you what we all know is true: the sting of defeat is more intense than the euphoria of victory. With his second-place finish at New Hampshire, Sheldon Creed has now tied Daniel Hemric and Dale Jarrett for the most runner-up finishes ever before securing a NASCAR Xfinity Series win. We talk to Creed himself and hear from Daniel Hemric on the challenges of claiming that first victory.

Dale Earnhardt Jr. sits down with longtime NASCAR competitor Jeff Green to learn more about how he rose from the short tracks of the Midwest to having one of the most dominant seasons in the NASCAR Xfinity Series history. After growing up in the footsteps of two racing brothers, David and Mark, also of NASCAR fame, Jeff ventured down a path that landed him at Dale Earnhardt Inc. in 1995.  When he took a call from the Intimidator himself, DEI was at an interesting point in its history, where Dale Sr. was looking to retire from part-time NASCAR Busch Series racing and put someone in the car full-time. Jeff and the No. 3 team had moments of brilliance and strong runs, but he felt it was still “Dale Sr.’s team” and he decided to try out a different opportunity.Jeff found victory lane for the first time in his NASCAR Xfinity career with Diamond Ridge Motorsports at Las Vegas in 1997. The team was excited about Jeff’s success and rushed him into the Cup Series, which Jeff explains was a difficult transition to make, and before long the team shut down. His glory years in the Xfinity Series came from 1999 to 2001 when he had two runner-up points efforts and a dominant 2000 championship run, where he won by over 600 points. The success brought an opportunity with Richard Childress Racing and Jeff, feeling like he was in the prime of his career, jumped at the chance to drive for a premier racing team. But when a run-in with his teammate Kevin Harvick ultimately got him fired, Jeff began a journey of moving from team to team, looking for stability. Along the way, he spent time back at DEI as well as at Richard Petty Motorsports driving the famed 43 before retiring from driving in 2021.Dale and Jeff reflect on their years spent racing each other in the Xfinity ranks, Dale’s first memories of Jeff at DEI, late model racing trips, and Jeff’s current day-to-day activities. 

Dale Earnhardt Jr. may be back at the beach, but his notebook is filled after the NASCAR weekend at New Hampshire and he’s excited to share on this episode of Dirty Air. NASCAR’s decision to wait out the rain and restart on wet weather tires was a polarizing one, and Dale has plenty of insight on the matter. Episode highlights include:Shoutouts to the underappreciated Carson Kvapil continues to impressNASCAR’s wet weather tire progressDealing with the danger of a wet pit roadKyle Larson gets testy with his spotterRyan Blaney and Michael McDowell’s dust-upAlex Bowman and Christopher Bell join the showDuring the Ask Jr. segment, listeners had questions about:Dale’s reaction to the NASCAR 2025 schedule rumorsWhat it’s like shooting a commercialWho will win the Denny Hamlin Bracket Challenge?

Now that Martin Truex Jr. has determined this season will be his last as a full-time NASCAR Cup Series driver, there will be no shortage of celebrations of Martin’s stellar 21-year career over the next six months. Today on DJD Reloaded, we talk to several people instrumental in shaping MTJ’s storied career, from old buddies like TJ Majors and Josh Snider, to a couple of crew chiefs he won Championships with: Kevin “Bono” Manion and Cole Pearn. This week's show is full of great stories as we relive our favorite Truex memories (Captain and Coke, anyone?) and look ahead to what could be next for MTJ.

Dale Earnhardt Jr. sits down with longtime NASCAR crew chief Paul Andrews to learn more about his journey from being a vacuum repairman to a Cup championship-winning team leader. After being raised by his grandparents in Louisiana, Paul found his way to St. Louis where he reconnected with his mother and took a job working at his stepfather’s motel as a maintenance person. When he was working on a vacuum cleaner one day, he went to the local O.K. Vacuum store where he connected with Rusty Wallace, his father Russ, and Uncle Gary, and soon after took a job with the company. Along with this new role of employment came the opportunity to work in Rusty’s race shop after hours, and Paul began traveling with Rusty as he found his footing in the short-track late model and NASCAR worlds.Once Wallace went full-time NASCAR Cup racing in 1984, Paul again found himself in Louisiana, this time running Rusty’s sportsman late model program. Paul temporarily retired from the sport in 1986, but it wasn’t long before he took a call from up-and-comer Alan Kulwicki, establishing one of the hardest-working duos in the Cup garage. The team would overcome the odds and bring home the 1992 Cup season championship. After Alan’s untimely passing in a 1993 plane crash, the team was bought out by Geoff Bodine, and Paul would spend a couple of years honoring his late friend before moving on to other endeavors with Kranefuss-Penske, Dale Earnhardt Inc., Petty Enterprises, and Michael Waltrip Racing. Today, Paul can be found taking it easy, managing his various properties and moonlighting from time to time as a crew chief for JR Motorsports’ late model stock program, working with Dale Jr. when he gets behind the wheel for short track competition. 

Dale Earnhardt Jr. was curious as to how the repave at Iowa Speedway would perform when NASCAR came to town, and he is back for another edition of Dirty Air to report on what he saw unfold. Highlights of the episode include:Dale needs to start chewing his food moreLet’s prioritize getting new fans to the racetrackMartin Truex Jr.’s retirement announcementThe NASCAR Silly Season ramps upAre repaves the key to better NextGen short-track races?Race winner Ryan Blaney joins the showDuring the Ask Jr. segment of the show, fans sent in questions regarding:How much longer Dale plans on racingThe 2012 Michigan win in the Batman carUpdates on the Titanic Lego setFather’s Day activities 

The great Mario Andretti was on the Dale Jr. Download this week, and he was asked about motorsports’ Crown Jewel races. Not NASCAR’s Crown Jewels, but the biggest races in motorsports collectively. That got us wondering, with Kyle Larson’s recent cross-over into IndyCar, who is the single-most versatile, multi-disciplined race car driver in history that competed in the Crown Jewel races? Who should be considered the best? And who amongst us could take over that mantle someday? We have an all-star panel to help inform our discussion. Legendary FOX Sports broadcaster Mike Joy, Sirius XM & MRN personality Dave “The Godfather” Moody, and the Director of Historical Content at NASCAR, Ken Martin, all weigh in and help settle the debate once and for all.

Dale Earnhardt Jr. sits down for an incredible conversation with motorsports icon Mario Andretti. With a resume that includes wins in the Indy 500 and the Daytona 500, four IndyCar championships, and a Formula One championship, Mario is in rarified air in motorsports history, ranking among the best to ever sit behind the wheel. Mario reflects on his childhood in Italy and how his family migrated from a refugee camp to Nazareth, Pennsylvania when he was 15 years old. It was there that his twin brother Aldo and he discovered the nearby Nazareth Speedway and set out with the ambition to build a racecar to enter the local sportsman division. At the advice of his friends, the Andretti brother team settled on a 1948 Hudson Hornet for their initial foray into racing, thanks to the classic car’s success on the dirt in early NASCAR competition. With a fabricated story of racing in the Formula Junior ranks in Italy and doctored driver's licenses in their pockets, the Andretti's set out with a full head of steam and found immediate success, helping to launch one of the greatest stories in auto racing. Mario explains that his decision to leave stock cars and venture into open wheel racing came through the ¾ midget ranks of the East Coast, and his time in the division helped land him USAC sprint and championship car rides. After getting his feet wet in the big cars in 1964, Mario had a tremendous rookie season, placing 3rd at the Indianapolis 500 and winning the national championship. Mario and Dale also chat about his journey into the NASCAR world, which resulted in a 1967 Daytona 500 victory with the Holman-Moody team. Mario admits that some on the team were pulling for his teammate Fred Lorenzen, but with the help of the legendary engine builder Waddell Wilson he was able to overcome adversity for his lone NASCAR win. The conversation also covers Mario’s track record at the Indy 500, pursuing his childhood love of Formula One racing and how he came to win the 1978 World Championship and returning to the US to finish his career in the CART ranks, racing alongside his son Michael.

As NASCAR returns from wine country, Dale Earnhardt Jr. is back in the studio to react to the chaos and dominance race fans saw this past weekend in Sonoma. With the bump and runs, tire strategies and aggressive restarts, there is plenty to unpack:Sonoma repave was not a problemRoss Chastain dust-ups with Kyle Busch and Chase ElliottJosh Berry has a big momentToo many caution laps?Dale’s change of heart on Sonoma tripsSVG wins two in a rowRace winner Kyle Larson calls into the showIowa repave expectationsDuring the Ask Jr. segment of the episode, listeners wrote in questions regarding:The status of Dale’s Denny Hamlin bracketRyan McGee’s recent article about the NASCAR charter negotiations Dale’s favorite NASCAR Race Hub memories 

Carla Gebhart is joined by The Athletic's Jordan Bianchi to break down a NASCAR hot topic: SMT data. Why do you keep hearing about it? What is it? Should SMT data be available to drivers and teams during a race? How does that impact competition?  Randall Burnett, crew chief of the No. 8 car at Richard Childress Racing, joins to offer his perspective on SMT data sharing and whether it helps or hurts in providing the best racing. Plus, it's time to announce our mid-season superlatives! Carla and Jordan give their selections, and we highlight the fan picks for each category. And, finally, the crew discusses which upsets you should look out for in Round 2 of the Denny Hamlin Bracket Challenge as the NASCAR Cup Series heads to Sonoma.

Dale Earnhardt Jr. welcomes NASCAR Hall of Famer Mark Martin back to the Download to discuss his early days in the sport and how he came to be a chassis setup guru. Mark explains that he and his father, Julian, were both mechanical enthusiasts and began attending drag and short track races in Arkansas before traveling to the Daytona 500 in 1973. Eventually, Julian’s interest wandered to the pit area and he became a part owner of a dirt late model that competed at nearby Batesville Speedway. One night, while scraping mud off the car between events Mark expressed to his father: “How about we build one of these for me next season?” The rest is history.Mark explains that his expertise in chassis setup came from his years competing in asphalt late models with the American Speed Association. After buying a car from legendary Michigan builder Ed Howe and working with his setups, Mark took inspiration from fellow competitors Junior Hanley and Gary Balough on how to take things to the next level. Dale Jr. was especially interested in a setup Mark stumbled upon using no right rear spring, to which Mark gives a detailed explanation of how the discovery came to him while testing at Winchester Speedway. The discussion also covers Mark’s failed first attempt at NASCAR Cup racing, turning down an offer to drive for Harry Ranier, his long relationship with Jack Roush, and his years of competing with Dale Jr. in the NASCAR Xfinity Series. 21+ and present in NC. First online real money wager only. $10 Deposit req. Bonus issued as non-withdrawable bonus bets that expire 7 days after receipt. Restrictions apply. See full terms at fanduel.com/sportsbook. Gambling problem? Call 877-718-5543 or visit morethanagame.nc.gov

Dale Earnhardt Jr. is back behind the microphone to react to the chaotic NASCAR Cup race outcome at Gateway on this edition of Dirty Air. Blown engines and empty gas tanks disrupted Christopher Bell and Ryan Blaney’s clear paths to victory, and Austin Cindric was in the right place at the right time. This episode covers:Missing phone calls from DaleWhat’s the future for Stewart-Haas Racing’s drivers?NASCAR silly season is ramping upWhere does Dale stand on owning a charter?The trademark of the “8” is up for grabsBreaking news on Kyle Larson’s waiver statusBell and Blaney’s woes lead to busted bracketsRace winner Austin Cindric calls inDuring the Ask Jr. portion of the episode, listeners sent in questions about:Who is the better iRacer, Dale Jr. or TJ Majors?Dale’s favorite beach activitiesAdvice for first-time parentsReactions to Elton Sawyer’s statement about Kyle Larson’s Playoffs waiver

Carla Gebhart hosts a packed DJD Reloaded show this week. Rodney Childers, crew chief of the No. 4 car at Stewart-Haas Racing, joins to discuss his team's upcoming closure and how he’ll work to keep his team focused for the remainder of 2024. Plus, Indiana’s own and Speed Street host, Conor Daly, calls in fresh off his top-10 result in the Indy 500. Conor shares the ups and downs of his day and why he gets so emotional before every race. And finally, with the Denny Hamlin Bracket Challenge back for the second year, there’s nobody better to get in-depth analysis from than Dirty Mo Dough’s “Professor," Russell Wenrich. Entries for the bracket close this Sunday at 3 pm ET, so visit dirtymomedia.com/bracketchallenge to enter!

Carla Gebhart hosts a packed DJD Reloaded show this week. Rodney Childers, crew chief of the No. 4 car at Stewart-Haas Racing, joins to discuss his team's upcoming closure and how he’ll work to keep his team focused for the remainder of 2024. Plus, Indiana’s own and Speed Street host, Conor Daly, calls in fresh off his top-10 result in the Indy 500. Conor shares the ups and downs of his day and why he gets so emotional before every race. And finally, with the Denny Hamlin Bracket Challenge back for the second year, there’s nobody better to get in-depth analysis from than Dirty Mo Dough’s “Professor," Russell Wenrich. Entries for the bracket close this Sunday at 3 pm ET, so visit dirtymomedia.com/bracketchallenge to enter! To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. is joined by country music star and fellow North Carolina native Luke Combs this week on the Dale Jr. Download. On the heels of releasing his latest album “Gettin’ Old” in 2023, Luke connects with Dale via video chat in the midst of a long-running stadium tour. The two chat about Luke growing up in Huntersville, N.C., and realize that they lived about 20 minutes apart for some time. Luke also talks about his family’s decision to move to Asheville, N.C., and attending Appalachian State University, where he changed majors a couple of times and found work as a bouncer at a local bar. It was during these years that Luke found inspiration to pick up a guitar his parents had given him in the seventh grade and learn to play, a decision that would put him on a trajectory to country music stardom. Luke explains that his entry into live music and the recording industry was humble. After learning a handful of songs, he asked the owner of a local bar he frequented if he could perform, to which he easily obliged. He also found a local studio to record at and self-released his first couple of EPs, helping to build a grassroots following. When his single “Hurricane” found its way to the top of the country charts on iTunes, Luke brought in enough money to stay in pursuit of his music goals a little longer, and soon after, he made the move to Nashville. While there, participating in songwriting sessions with like-minded musicians, Luke began to take meetings with record labels, eventually finding a home with Sony. Through the strength of a string of successful records and No. 1 hit singles, Luke quickly rose from being an opening act to headlining one of the best-selling tours in country music history.   To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. is joined by country music star and fellow North Carolina native Luke Combs this week on the Dale Jr. Download. On the heels of releasing his latest album “Gettin’ Old” in 2023, Luke connects with Dale via video chat in the midst of a long-running stadium tour. The two chat about Luke growing up in Huntersville, N.C., and realize that they lived about 20 minutes apart for some time. Luke also talks about his family’s decision to move to Asheville, N.C., and attending Appalachian State University, where he changed majors a couple of times and found work as a bouncer at a local bar. It was during these years that Luke found inspiration to pick up a guitar his parents had given him in the seventh grade and learn to play, a decision that would put him on a trajectory to country music stardom.Luke explains that his entry into live music and the recording industry was humble. After learning a handful of songs, he asked the owner of a local bar he frequented if he could perform, to which he easily obliged. He also found a local studio to record at and self-released his first couple of EPs, helping to build a grassroots following. When his single “Hurricane” found its way to the top of the country charts on iTunes, Luke brought in enough money to stay in pursuit of his music goals a little longer, and soon after, he made the move to Nashville. While there, participating in songwriting sessions with like-minded musicians, Luke began to take meetings with record labels, eventually finding a home with Sony. Through the strength of a string of successful records and No. 1 hit singles, Luke quickly rose from being an opening act to headlining one of the best-selling tours in country music history.   To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. checks in remotely from the beach house after a rainy Memorial Day weekend for a new episode of Dirty Air. Mother Nature had other plans for the “Greatest Day in Motorsports.” As a result, there was a lot to debate and unpack: Tip-toeing into sports betting Getting to know the neighbors The 2024 NASCAR Hall of Fame Class Should Kyle Larson get a waiver?  Coca-Cola 600 winner Christopher Bell calls in  During the Ask Jr. portion of the episode, listeners inquired about: Dale’s recent exploration of the Gee race shop attic Dale’s experience of getting interviewed by Josh Berry during the Charlotte Xfinity race Dale’s sim rig setup at his beach home To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. checks in remotely from the beach house after a rainy Memorial Day weekend for a new episode of Dirty Air. Mother Nature had other plans for the “Greatest Day in Motorsports.” As a result, there was a lot to debate and unpack: Tip-toeing into sports betting Getting to know the neighbors The 2024 NASCAR Hall of Fame Class Should Kyle Larson get a waiver?  Coca-Cola 600 winner Christopher Bell calls in  During the Ask Jr. portion of the episode, listeners inquired about: Dale’s recent exploration of the Gee race shop attic Dale’s experience of getting interviewed by Josh Berry during the Charlotte Xfinity race Dale’s sim rig setup at his beach home To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Carla Gebhart takes the Lionel Racing stage live at JRM Fan Day to discuss Dirty Mo Media's origin, evolution, and future. Mike Davis, Dirty Mo Media's founder and executive producer, comes out of retirement, and Dale Jr.'s long-time friend and spotter, TJ Majors, shares his perspective on the early days of the Dale Jr. Download. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Carla Gebhart takes the Lionel Racing stage live at JRM Fan Day to discuss Dirty Mo Media's origin, evolution, and future. Mike Davis, Dirty Mo Media's founder and executive producer, comes out of retirement, and Dale Jr.'s long-time friend and spotter, TJ Majors, shares his perspective on the early days of the Dale Jr. Download. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

When news breaks, we react. Dale Earnhardt Jr. recorded an emergency bonus episode of The Download to react to Ricky Stenhouse Jr.'s record-breaking $75k fine for fighting Kyle Busch after the All-Star race at North Wilkesboro. Dale discusses whether or not the penalties levied on Stenhouse are fair, if Ricky should appeal the fine, and what this means going forward. Plus, Dale compares this fight to other historic fights over the years and reacts to NASCAR's reasoning behind the biggest fine for a fight in the sport's history.  To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

When news breaks, we react. Dale Earnhardt Jr. recorded an emergency bonus episode of The Download to react to Ricky Stenhouse Jr.'s record-breaking $75k fine for fighting Kyle Busch after the All-Star race at North Wilkesboro. Dale discusses whether or not the penalties levied on Stenhouse are fair, if Ricky should appeal the fine, and what this means going forward.Plus, Dale compares this fight to other historic fights over the years and reacts to NASCAR's reasoning behind the biggest fine for a fight in the sport's history.  To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. sits down with Will Compton and Taylor Lewan of Barstool’s Bussin’ With The Boys. Dale and the boys kick things off with Will and Taylor’s early days cutting their teeth on the college football level. Since Dale never went to college, so Compton and Lewan walk Dale through what the college experience looks like as a student-athlete. Taylor explains the chaos of the NFL combine and shares the roller coaster ride of NFL draft night. Will shares the origin story of the Bussin’ With The Boys podcast and the story behind finding the iconic bus.  The group moves on to discuss the injuries Will and Taylor have encountered over their careers, including the injury that left Lewan heartbroken. Will shares the reason why he turned down the New York Jets late in his career and how he ended up playing alongside Taylor at the Tennessee Titans. The two share the hilarious story of the time they played each other on the football field, which is now known as “The Bussin’ Bowl.” Dale, Will, and Taylor finish the conversation by shootin’ the breeze and sharing the story of how they initially became friends. It’s the longest DJD episode so far this year and for damn good reason. You won’t want to miss this one.  To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. sits down with Will Compton and Taylor Lewan of Barstool’s Bussin’ With The Boys. Dale and the boys kick things off with Will and Taylor’s early days cutting their teeth on the college football level. Since Dale never went to college, Compton and Lewan walk Dale through what the college experience looks like as a student-athlete. Taylor explains the chaos of the NFL combine and shares the roller coaster ride of NFL draft night. Will shares the origin story of the Bussin’ With The Boys podcast and the story behind finding the iconic bus. The group moves on to discuss the injuries Will and Taylor have encountered over their careers, including the injury that left Lewan heartbroken. Will shares the reason why he turned down the New York Jets late in his career and how he ended up playing alongside Taylor at the Tennessee Titans. The two share the hilarious story of the time they played each other on the football field, which is now known as “The Bussin’ Bowl.” Dale, Will, and Taylor finish the conversation by shootin’ the breeze and sharing the story of how they initially became friends.It’s the longest DJD episode so far this year and for damn good reason. You won’t want to miss this one.  To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. is back in the Bojangles Studio to chat about all things North Wilkesboro on this edition of Dirty Air. There were multiple grooves of racing and punches flying as the All-Stars of NASCAR graced the famed short track in Wilkes County, so obviously there was a lot to unpack: Dale talks about his trip to New York City The North Wilkesboro repave was a big success Should NASCAR introduce multiple tire compounds for race weekends? Ricky Stenhouse Jr. vs. Kyle Busch Kyle Larson’s eventful Sunday During the Ask Jr. portion of the episode, listeners sent in questions regarding: The 2025 NASCAR In-Season Tournament  Worst weather delays Last time Dale has thrown a punch 2025 NASCAR Championship being back in Phoenix To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. is back in the Bojangles Studio to chat about all things North Wilkesboro on this edition of Dirty Air. There were multiple grooves of racing and punches flying as the All-Stars of NASCAR graced the famed short track in Wilkes County, so obviously there was a lot to unpack: Dale talks about his trip to New York City The North Wilkesboro repave was a big success Should NASCAR introduce multiple tire compounds for race weekends? Ricky Stenhouse Jr. vs. Kyle Busch Kyle Larson’s eventful Sunday During the Ask Jr. portion of the episode, listeners sent in questions regarding: The 2025 NASCAR In-Season Tournament  Worst weather delays Last time Dale has thrown a punch 2025 NASCAR Championship being back in Phoenix To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Tonight, the lights shine brightest on the hopeful candidates vying for your vote to secure their spot in the 2024 All-Star race at North Wilkesboro. Carson Hocevar, Zane Smith, Kaz Grala, and Noah Gragson each make their pitch to voters and weigh in on hot-button issues like short-track package reform, foreign interference in NASCAR by Shane Van Gisbergen, and their economic plans for how to distribute the $1 Million winnings from the race. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Tonight, the lights shine brightest on the hopeful candidates vying for your vote to secure their spot in the 2024 All-Star race at North Wilkesboro. Carson Hocevar, Zane Smith, Kaz Grala, and Noah Gragson each make their pitch to voters and weigh in on hot-button issues like short-track package reform, foreign interference in NASCAR by Shane Van Gisbergen, and their economic plans for how to distribute the $1 Million winnings from the race. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Join Kelley Earnhardt Miller in this episode of "Business of Motorsports" as she sits down with Jeff Dickerson, co-owner of Spire Motorsports. Jeff shares insights into his NASCAR journey, revealing how Spire's formation was partly accidental. Delving into the current charter landscape, Jeff discusses the increasing value of charters, the potential for permanent charters, and the implications of a spending cap for teams. Despite teams aligning on four key charter pillars, Jeff explores whether their priorities truly align. The conversation also tackles the challenges of adapting to new changes and the need for clear regulations in the sport. Jeff shares valuable advice he's received, emphasizing the importance of listening and emotional management in the fast-paced world of NASCAR. 21+ and present in NC. First online real money wager only. $10 Deposit req. Bonus issued as non-withdrawable bonus bets that expire 7 days after receipt. Restrictions apply. See full terms at fanduel.com/sportsbook. Gambling problem? Call 877-718-5543 or visit morethanagame.nc.gov To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Join Kelley Earnhardt Miller in this episode of "Business of Motorsports" as she sits down with Jeff Dickerson, co-owner of Spire Motorsports. Jeff shares insights into his NASCAR journey, revealing how Spire's formation was partly accidental. Delving into the current charter landscape, Jeff discusses the increasing value of charters, the potential for permanent charters, and the implications of a spending cap for teams. Despite teams aligning on four key charter pillars, Jeff explores whether their priorities truly align. The conversation also tackles the challenges of adapting to new changes and the need for clear regulations in the sport.Jeff shares valuable advice he's received, emphasizing the importance of listening and emotional management in the fast-paced world of NASCAR.21+ and present in NC. First online real money wager only. $10 Deposit req. Bonus issued as non-withdrawable bonus bets that expire 7 days after receipt. Restrictions apply. See full terms at fanduel.com/sportsbook. Gambling problem? Call 877-718-5543 or visit morethanagame.nc.gov To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. returns from vacationing in London and Scotland for another edition of Dirty Air. Although he was overseas spending time with Jimmie Johnson, Matt Kenseth and Casey Mears, it didn’t keep him from tuning into all the action at Darlington: Dale details his United Kingdom adventure Ryan Blaney and William Byron have a three-wide dust-up Chris Buescher vs. Tyler Reddick Brad Keselowski finally returns to Victory Lane, as an owner/driver The future of Front Row, Stewart-Haas and Spire During the Ask Jr. portion of the episode, listeners sent in questions regarding:  What meals Dale enjoyed on his trip Best games for an overseas flight Dale’s plans for grilling and smoking this summer  Favorite Darlington throwback schemes this year To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. returns from vacationing in London and Scotland for another edition of Dirty Air. Although he was overseas spending time with Jimmie Johnson, Matt Kenseth and Casey Mears, it didn’t keep him from tuning into all the action at Darlington: Dale details his United Kingdom adventure Ryan Blaney and William Byron have a three-wide dust-up Chris Buescher vs. Tyler Reddick Brad Keselowski finally returns to Victory Lane, as an owner/driver The future of Front Row, Stewart-Haas and Spire During the Ask Jr. portion of the episode, listeners sent in questions regarding:  What meals Dale enjoyed on his trip Best games for an overseas flight Dale’s plans for grilling and smoking this summer  Favorite Darlington throwback schemes this year 21+ and present in NC. First online real money wager only. $10 Deposit req. Bonus issued as non-withdrawable bonus bets that expire 7 days after receipt. Restrictions apply. See full terms at fanduel.com/sportsbook. Gambling problem? Call 877-718-5543 or visit morethanagame.nc.gov. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

So close, yet so far from victory. With Kansas providing the closest finish in the NASCAR Cup series history at 0.001 seconds, the DJD Reloaded crew decided to revisit iconic photo finishes throughout all eras of the sport. NASCAR historian Buz McKim calls in to look back at memorable finishes – plus tell us of a TIE on the record books – before he gets put to the test with photo-finish trivia. Plus, the driver of the No. 1 for JR Motorsports, Sam Mayer, stops by to share the emotions of the close win at Texas from earlier this season and how he deals with the heartbreak of being runner-up. Plus, we hear from the fans in our weekly Dale Call segment about their favorite photo finishes of all time. And lastly, we get a "surprise" visit from the only person who can give us insight into the crooked start-finish line. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

So close, yet so far from victory. With Kansas providing the closest finish in the NASCAR Cup series history at 0.001 seconds, the DJD Reloaded crew decided to revisit iconic photo finishes throughout all eras of the sport. NASCAR historian Buz McKim calls in to look back at memorable finishes – plus tell us of a TIE on the record books – before he gets put to the test with photo-finish trivia. Plus, the driver of the No. 1 for JR Motorsports, Sam Mayer, stops by to share the emotions of the close win at Texas from earlier this season and how he deals with the heartbreak of being runner-up. Plus, we hear from the fans in our weekly Dale Call segment about their favorite photo finishes of all time. And lastly, we get a "surprise" visit from the only person who can give us insight into the crooked start-finish line. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. sits down with NASCAR Senior Vice President of Competition Elton Sawyer to discuss the current state of NASCAR officiating, the NextGen car, tires, and more - while also taking a deep dive into Sawyer’s own career as a driver. The conversation begins with Sawyer’s early days behind the wheel and the story behind meeting Elton’s now wife and former race car driver, Patty Moise. The two discuss his time racing in the Busch Series, along with his short-run racing in Cup. Sawyer breaks down the end of his racing career, and his transition to working on the competition side of the sport.  Sawyer then provides a “peek behind the curtain” and shares what his day-to-day looks like as the SVP of Competition. Sawyer explains the role of a race director, how NASCAR evaluates penalties, and how the appeals process works. He also breaks down what caused the tires at Bristol to react the way he did, shares what they hope to achieve with multiple tire compounds at the All-Star Race, and reveals the potential of Hybrids breaking into the sport. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. sits down with NASCAR Senior Vice President of Competition Elton Sawyer to discuss the current state of NASCAR officiating, the NextGen car, tires, and more - while also taking a deep dive into Sawyer’s own career as a driver. The conversation begins with Sawyer’s early days behind the wheel and the story behind meeting Elton’s now wife and former race car driver, Patty Moise. The two discuss his time racing in the Busch Series, along with his short-run racing in Cup. Sawyer breaks down the end of his racing career, and his transition to working on the competition side of the sport. Sawyer then provides a “peek behind the curtain” and shares what his day-to-day looks like as the SVP of Competition. Sawyer explains the role of a race director, how NASCAR evaluates penalties, and how the appeals process works. He also breaks down what caused the tires at Bristol to react the way he did, shares what they hope to achieve with multiple tire compounds at the All-Star Race, and reveals the potential of Hybrids breaking into the sport. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. is back in the Bojangles Studio to break down the closest finish in NASCAR Cup history. While the finish at Kansas between Kyle Larson and Chris Buescher had viewers on the edge of their seats, it sparked a debate on how photo finishes are governed and more: Which start/finish line is the real one? Transponders vs. the line vs. the camera Mile-and-a-half tracks have been great; do we need more on the schedule? Short tracks continue to be on the chopping block moving forward Dale's broadcasting plans for 2025 Kansas second-place finisher Chris Buescher calls in During the Ask Jr. portion of the episode, listeners sent in questions regarding: Dale seeing Kasey Kahne at dinner Dale’s silver Goodyear car from winning the NASCAR Busch Series Championship Multiple tire compounds for North Wilkesboro The secret to finding the best bathroom before a race NASCAR implementing a push-to-pass system like IndyCar To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. is back in the Bojangles Studio to break down the closest finish in NASCAR Cup history. While the finish at Kansas between Kyle Larson and Chris Buescher had viewers on the edge of their seats, it sparked a debate on how photo finishes are governed and more: Which start/finish line is the real one? Transponders vs. the line vs. the camera Mile-and-a-half tracks have been great; do we need more on the schedule? Short tracks continue to be on the chopping block moving forward Dale's broadcasting plans for 2025 Kansas second-place finisher Chris Buescher calls in During the Ask Jr. portion of the episode, listeners sent in questions regarding: Dale seeing Kasey Kahne at dinner Dale’s silver Goodyear car from winning the NASCAR Busch Series Championship Multiple tire compounds for North Wilkesboro The secret to finding the best bathroom before a race NASCAR implementing a push-to-pass system like IndyCar To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Who is the best trash talker in NASCAR today? That’s a question Dale Jr. asked on The Dale Jr. Download this week. Well, we’re taking it one step further. We wonder if today’s NASCAR drivers can even hold a candle to the previous generations of smack-talkers – guys like Tony Stewart, Darrell Waltrip, Donnie Allison, Cale Yarborough – the list goes on and on. We’ve got the perfect people to debate this topic in studio – the driver of the No. 77 Spire Motorsports Chevrolet in the NASCAR Cup Series, Carson Hocevar, and spotter for Bubba Wallace’s No. 23 team, Freddie Kraft. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Who is the best trash talker in NASCAR today? That’s a question Dale Jr. asked on The Dale Jr. Download this week. Well, we’re taking it one step further. We wonder if today’s NASCAR drivers can even hold a candle to the previous generations of smack-talkers – guys like Tony Stewart, Darrell Waltrip, Donnie Allison, Cale Yarborough – the list goes on and on. We’ve got the perfect people to debate this topic in studio – the driver of the No. 77 Spire Motorsports Chevrolet in the NASCAR Cup Series, Carson Hocevar, and spotter for Bubba Wallace’s No. 23 team, Freddie Kraft. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. sits down with Chocolate Myers and Kirk Shelmerdine, both of whom were members of Dale Earnhardt’s legendary pit crew ‘The Flying Aces,’ to swap stories and discuss the current state of NASCAR. The group reflects on the early years working on Dale Earnhardt’s team. They share stories of Chocolate’s persona on the team, the time the pit crew saved a stranded #3 car stuck on the race track, and why you had to let Dale Earnhardt win in a game of cards.  The group then discusses the current state of the sport and provides insight into what is in store for Richard Childress Racing's future. Chocolate also opens up about his recent health struggles and shares his perspective on staying positive through difficult days. Plus, Chocolate gives Dale Jr. a legendary gift that once belonged to his father.  To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. sits down with Chocolate Myers and Kirk Shelmerdine, both of whom were members of Dale Earnhardt’s legendary pit crew ‘The Flying Aces,’ to swap stories and discuss the current state of NASCAR. The group reflects on the early years working on Dale Earnhardt’s team. They share stories of Chocolate’s persona on the team, the time the pit crew saved a stranded #3 car stuck on the race track, and why you had to let Dale Earnhardt win in a game of cards. The group then discusses the current state of the sport and provides insight into what is in store for Richard Childress Racing's future. Chocolate also opens up about his recent health struggles and shares his perspective on staying positive through difficult days. Plus, Chocolate gives Dale Jr. a legendary gift that once belonged to his father.  To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. checks in to the Bojangles Studio for this week’s episode of Dirty Air. In a weekend that saw a near-rookie upset in the Xfinity race, aero blocking and Denny Hamlin’s return to Victory Lane in the Cup race, there was a lot to unpack: Carson Kvapil continues to impress The next generation of young talent is exciting  Best trash-talking drivers Should NASCAR take the digital rear-view mirrors out of the NextGen car? What is next in the NASCAR charter negotiations? Race winner Denny Hamlin calls in During the Ask Jr. portion of the episode, listeners sent in questions regarding: The changes to the bus stop at Watkins Glen The Washington Commanders’ NFL Draft picks The newest class of NASCAR Hall of Fame nominees To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. checks in to the Bojangles Studio for this week’s episode of Dirty Air. In a weekend that saw a near-rookie upset in the Xfinity race, aero blocking and Denny Hamlin’s return to Victory Lane in the Cup race, there was a lot to unpack: Carson Kvapil continues to impress The next generation of young talent is exciting  Best trash-talking drivers Should NASCAR take the digital rear-view mirrors out of the NextGen car? What is next in the NASCAR charter negotiations? Race winner Denny Hamlin calls in During the Ask Jr. portion of the episode, listeners sent in questions regarding: The changes to the bus stop at Watkins Glen The Washington Commanders’ NFL Draft picks The newest class of NASCAR Hall of Fame nominees To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this week's DJD Reloaded, Carla Gebhart is joined by T.J. Majors, Brad Keselowski's spotter and co-host of DBC, to talk all about the art of blocking. We call up Michael McDowell to get his thoughts on how the final lap at Talladega played out and what, if anything, he could have done differently to hang on and secure the win. Plus, Jamie McMurray calls in and shares his perspective on McDowell's move and which drivers are the best drafting-track blockers in NASCAR today. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this week's DJD Reloaded, Carla Gebhart is joined by T.J. Majors, Brad Keselowski's spotter and co-host of DBC, to talk all about the art of blocking. We call up Michael McDowell to get his thoughts on how the final lap at Talladega played out and what, if anything, he could have done differently to hang on and secure the win. Plus, Jamie McMurray calls in and shares his perspective on McDowell's move and which drivers are the best drafting-track blockers in NASCAR today. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. sits down with a driver from NASCAR’s past, Tennessee’s own Casey Atwood. After rapidly making a name for himself in the late model stock division at Nashville Fairgrounds, Atwood made a big splash in the NASCAR Xfinity Series, becoming one of the youngest winners in history. Casey explains that while his family grew up watching racing, he would become the first driver in his lineage after convincing his father to buy him a go-kart. The father-son team would start out at the Nashville Fairgrounds before entering the World Karting Association ranks and finding championship success. Upon graduating from the karting world, Casey entered into the four-cylinder ranks at Highland Rim Speedway in Greenbrier, TN. It was there he forged a friendship with Bobby Hamilton, a relationship that would help pave his entryway into NASCAR. A successful season in late model stock competition propelled his name into the NASCAR garage, and after turning heads in 1999 by becoming the youngest winner in Xfinity Series history at the time, Casey was sure he would have a spot in the sport for many years to come. Unfortunately though, a career gamble on a new team and a year of rookie struggles in the Cup Series would leave Casey Atwood in the “what could have been” category of NASCAR’s past drivers. 21+ and present in NC. First online real money wager only. $10 Deposit req. Bonus issued as non-withdrawable bonus bets that expire 7 days after receipt. Restrictions apply. See full terms at fanduel.com/sportsbook. Gambling problem? Call 877-718-5543 or visit morethanagame.nc.gov To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. sits down with a driver from NASCAR’s past, Tennessee’s own Casey Atwood. After rapidly making a name for himself in the late model stock division at Nashville Fairgrounds, Atwood made a big splash in the NASCAR Xfinity Series, becoming one of the youngest winners in history. Casey explains that while his family grew up watching racing, he would become the first driver in his lineage after convincing his father to buy him a go-kart. The father-son team would start out at the Nashville Fairgrounds before entering the World Karting Association ranks and finding championship success.Upon graduating from the karting world, Casey entered into the four-cylinder ranks at Highland Rim Speedway in Greenbrier, TN. It was there he forged a friendship with Bobby Hamilton, a relationship that would help pave his entryway into NASCAR. A successful season in late model stock competition propelled his name into the NASCAR garage, and after turning heads in 1999 by becoming the youngest winner in Xfinity Series history at the time, Casey was sure he would have a spot in the sport for many years to come. Unfortunately though, a career gamble on a new team and a year of rookie struggles in the Cup Series would leave Casey Atwood in the “what could have been” category of NASCAR’s past drivers.21+ and present in NC. First online real money wager only. $10 Deposit req. Bonus issued as non-withdrawable bonus bets that expire 7 days after receipt. Restrictions apply. See full terms at fanduel.com/sportsbook. Gambling problem? Call 877-718-5543 or visit morethanagame.nc.gov To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. returns to the Bojangles Studio after a thrilling Talladega Cup race for a new edition of Dirty Air. From scoring pylons to saving fuel, there was a lot to unpack in this episode: A new “grumpy old man” moment What does Dale think about the scoring pylons? How can NASCAR solve the fuel-saving dilemma on drafting tracks? Shorter races vs. more stages: “don’t take chips out of my bag!” Michael McDowell makes one block too many  Race winner Tyler Reddick calls into the show The impact of Michael Jordan being in Victory Lane During the Ask Jr. portion of the episode, listeners sent in questions regarding: Frontstretch interviews vs. Victory Lane interviews Most heartbreaking race loss New parenting lessons Meeting and interacting with Michael Jordan 21+ and present in NC. First online real money wager only. $10 Deposit req. Bonus issued as non-withdrawable bonus bets that expire 7 days after receipt. Restrictions apply. See full terms at fanduel.com/sportsbook. Gambling problem? Call 877-718-5543 or visit morethanagame.nc.gov To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. returns to the Bojangles Studio after a thrilling Talladega Cup race for a new edition of Dirty Air. From scoring pylons to saving fuel, there was a lot to unpack in this episode: A new “grumpy old man” moment What does Dale think about the scoring pylons? How can NASCAR solve the fuel-saving dilemma on drafting tracks? Shorter races vs. more stages: “don’t take chips out of my bag!” Michael McDowell makes one block too many  Race winner Tyler Reddick calls into the show The impact of Michael Jordan being in Victory Lane During the Ask Jr. portion of the episode, listeners sent in questions regarding: Frontstretch interviews vs. Victory Lane interviews Most heartbreaking race loss New parenting lessons Meeting and interacting with Michael Jordan 21+ and present in NC. First online real money wager only. $10 Deposit req. Bonus issued as non-withdrawable bonus bets that expire 7 days after receipt. Restrictions apply. See full terms at fanduel.com/sportsbook. Gambling problem? Call 877-718-5543 or visit morethanagame.nc.gov To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Carla Gebhart and Andrew Kurland are joined by NASCAR's SVP of Competition, Elton Sawyer, to pull back the curtain on practice time at NASCAR’s highest levels. The hot topic started several weeks ago with comments from Brad Keselowski. It caught new momentum this week after Jimmie Johnson wrecked at Texas. Is less practice a good thing or a bad thing for today’s racing product? What do drivers like? Owners? Fans? Dale Jr. went on a self-admitted tangent this week on the Download saying we eliminated practice during the pandemic but never properly put it back despite everyone wanting it. But no sooner did he say it, Chase Elliott made a compelling argument as to why it’s fine the way it is. Who’s right? What’s the real story about practice? Is it a cost burden and, if so, for who? We’re searching for answers and going straight to the source – NASCAR. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Carla Gebhart and Andrew Kurland are joined by NASCAR's SVP of Competition, Elton Sawyer, to pull back the curtain on practice time at NASCAR’s highest levels. The hot topic started several weeks ago with comments from Brad Keselowski. It caught new momentum this week after Jimmie Johnson wrecked at Texas. Is less practice a good thing or a bad thing for today’s racing product? What do drivers like? Owners? Fans? Dale Jr. went on a self-admitted tangent this week on the Download saying we eliminated practice during the pandemic but never properly put it back despite everyone wanting it. But no sooner did he say it, Chase Elliott made a compelling argument as to why it’s fine the way it is. Who’s right? What’s the real story about practice? Is it a cost burden and, if so, for who? We’re searching for answers and going straight to the source – NASCAR. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. sits down with Hendrick Motorsports mechanic Marlin Yoder to discuss his departure from the Amish community and his one-in-a-million journey to becoming a NASCAR Cup Series championship-winning crew member. The conversation begins with Yoder’s perspective of living in a strict Amish community and his first time discovering NASCAR via the radio he smuggled into his bedroom. He relives the dramatic moments of leaving his family and community behind to chase a dream in an unknown new world.  Yoder didn’t know what a racetrack or the race cars looked like until he first laid eyes on a NASCAR television broadcast after leaving home. He instantly caught the bug to pursue a career in racing, and details his early days racing at a local short track. Dale Jr. and Yoder also discuss his efforts handing out resumes at race shops, breaking through in the lower levels and achieving the impossible at NASCAR’s highest level. Yoder’s story is one you won’t believe until you hear it for yourself. 21+ and present in NC. First online real money wager only. $10 Deposit req. Bonus issued as non-withdrawable bonus bets that expire 7 days after receipt. Restrictions apply. See full terms at fanduel.com/sportsbook. Gambling problem? Call 877-718-5543 or visit morethanagame.nc.gov. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. sits down with Hendrick Motorsports mechanic Marlin Yoder to discuss his departure from the Amish community and his one-in-a-million journey to becoming a NASCAR Cup Series championship-winning crew member. The conversation begins with Yoder’s perspective of living in a strict Amish community and his first time discovering NASCAR via the radio he smuggled into his bedroom. He relives the dramatic moments of leaving his family and community behind to chase a dream in an unknown new world. Yoder didn’t know what a racetrack or the race cars looked like until he first laid eyes on a NASCAR television broadcast after leaving home. He instantly caught the bug to pursue a career in racing, and details his early days racing at a local short track. Dale Jr. and Yoder also discuss his efforts handing out resumes at race shops, breaking through in the lower levels and achieving the impossible at NASCAR’s highest level. Yoder’s story is one you won’t believe until you hear it for yourself.21+ and present in NC. First online real money wager only. $10 Deposit req. Bonus issued as non-withdrawable bonus bets that expire 7 days after receipt. Restrictions apply. See full terms at fanduel.com/sportsbook. Gambling problem? Call 877-718-5543 or visit morethanagame.nc.gov. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. returns to the Bojangles Studio after a chaotic NASCAR Cup race at Texas Motor Speedway for another edition of Dirty Air. Not only did NASCAR put on a weekend of excitement in the Longhorn State, but Dale Jr. was behind the wheel himself: Dale Jr. recaps his CARS Tour race at New River Texas is back! Just give it some time… Who was wrong, Chastain or Byron?  We’re talking ‘bout practice! NASCAR Cup drivers are elite, so do they need it? Race winner Chase Elliott calls in During the Ask Jr. portion of the episode, listeners sent in questions regarding: Sharing SMT data - is it good or bad? Beer: bottles or cans? What did Dale Sr. do to prepare for races? You won’t want to miss the two Intimidator stories involving a bulldozer and a chainsaw. 21+ and present in NC. First online real money wager only. $10 Deposit req. Bonus issued as non-withdrawable bonus bets that expire 7 days after receipt. Restrictions apply. See full terms at fanduel.com/sportsbook. Gambling problem? Call 877-718-5543 or visit morethanagame.nc.gov. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. returns to the Bojangles Studio after a chaotic NASCAR Cup race at Texas Motor Speedway for another edition of Dirty Air. Not only did NASCAR put on a weekend of excitement in the Longhorn State, but Dale Jr. was behind the wheel himself: Dale Jr. recaps his CARS Tour race at New River Texas is back! Just give it some time… Who was wrong, Chastain or Byron?  We’re talking ‘bout practice! NASCAR Cup drivers are elite, so do they need it? Race winner Chase Elliott calls in During the Ask Jr. portion of the episode, listeners sent in questions regarding: Sharing SMT data - is it good or bad? Beer: bottles or cans? What did Dale Sr. do to prepare for races? You won’t want to miss the two Intimidator stories involving a bulldozer and a chainsaw. 21+ and present in NC. First online real money wager only. $10 Deposit req. Bonus issued as non-withdrawable bonus bets that expire 7 days after receipt. Restrictions apply. See full terms at fanduel.com/sportsbook. Gambling problem? Call 877-718-5543 or visit morethanagame.nc.gov. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

When talking about the big business of Cup charters this week on the Download, Dale Jr. said something that struck us. He wondered how realistic it is in today’s NASCAR to be an open, unchartered team and financially be able to break even. Today on Reloaded we will ask the question - how do independent, non-chartered Cup teams make it (both financially and competitively) in today’s NASCAR? Host Carla Gebhart is joined by Jordan Bianchi from Dirty Mo Media’s The Teardown podcast to ask that very question to MBM Motorsports owner Carl Long and Cup Series owner/driver BJ McLeod, who now races as an open team after selling his charter. Plus, we listen to your short track concerns and your solutions for saving our beloved short tracks.   To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

When talking about the big business of Cup charters this week on the Download, Dale Jr. said something that struck us. He wondered how realistic it is in today’s NASCAR to be an open, unchartered team and financially be able to break even. Today on Reloaded we will ask the question - how do independent, non-chartered Cup teams make it (both financially and competitively) in today’s NASCAR?Host Carla Gebhart is joined by Jordan Bianchi from Dirty Mo Media’s The Teardown podcast to ask that very question to MBM Motorsports owner Carl Long and Cup Series owner/driver BJ McLeod, who now races as an open team after selling his charter. Plus, we listen to your short track concerns and your solutions for saving our beloved short tracks.  To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. sits down with NASCAR royalty as Richard and Kyle Petty join this week’s episode of the Download. As part of the Petty Family’s 75 Years in Racing anniversary celebration, the guys wanted to stop by the studio and share some chapters of their legacy in the sport. The conversation starts with family patriarch Lee, who was entered in the very first NASCAR Cup race held on June 19th, 1949. The family operation steadily grew through the 1950s, with Lee amassing scores of victories along with three championships and Richard joining the driving ranks in 1958. All of this came to a screeching halt though as a result of Lee’s harrowing crash at Daytona in 1961, which left Petty Enterprises with virtually nothing. The chat also covers what era of stock cars Richard and Kyle liked driving the most, and what it was like having Earnhardt family patriarch Ralph race for the team in 1957. The guys bring up one of Richard’s early run-ins with Dale Earnhardt Sr. at Martinsville in 1980, where the King had to give a young Intimidator a stern talking to. Listeners get some insight into what they can find at the Petty Museum and how the family held on to decades worth of “junk” because of the historic and sentimental value tied to it. They also discuss Kyle’s upbringing as a child, him working at the shop and his entry into racing. He explains that his relationship with Richard has come full-circle from the time he was young, and now they are closer than ever.   21+ and present in NC. First online real money wager only. $10 Deposit req. Bonus issued as non-withdrawable bonus bets that expire 7 days after receipt. Restrictions apply. See full terms at fanduel.com/sportsbook. Gambling problem? Call 877-718-5543 or visit morethanagame.nc.gov. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. sits down with NASCAR royalty as Richard and Kyle Petty join this week’s episode of the Download. As part of the Petty Family’s 75 Years in Racing anniversary celebration, the guys wanted to stop by the studio and share some chapters of their legacy in the sport. The conversation starts with family patriarch Lee, who was entered in the very first NASCAR Cup race held on June 19th, 1949. The family operation steadily grew through the 1950s, with Lee amassing scores of victories along with three championships and Richard joining the driving ranks in 1958. All of this came to a screeching halt though as a result of Lee’s harrowing crash at Daytona in 1961, which left Petty Enterprises with virtually nothing.The chat also covers what era of stock cars Richard and Kyle liked driving the most, and what it was like having Earnhardt family patriarch Ralph race for the team in 1957. The guys bring up one of Richard’s early run-ins with Dale Earnhardt Sr. at Martinsville in 1980, where the King had to give a young Intimidator a stern talking to. Listeners get some insight into what they can find at the Petty Museum and how the family held on to decades worth of “junk” because of the historic and sentimental value tied to it. They also discuss Kyle’s upbringing as a child, him working at the shop and his entry into racing. He explains that his relationship with Richard has come full-circle from the time he was young, and now they are closer than ever.  21+ and present in NC. First online real money wager only. $10 Deposit req. Bonus issued as non-withdrawable bonus bets that expire 7 days after receipt. Restrictions apply. See full terms at fanduel.com/sportsbook. Gambling problem? Call 877-718-5543 or visit morethanagame.nc.gov. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. is back in the Bojangles Studio for another edition of Dirty Air. After another frustrating short track race for the NASCAR NextGen car, there was a lot to get into: Denny Hamlin/Marcus Smith Twitter beef Martinsville Cup winner William Byron calls in The sense of urgency to fix the short track package is FINALLY here Sammy Smith tries out Cherry Lemon SunDrop Dale’s advice for JRM driver Sam Mayer During the Ask Jr. portion of the show, listeners wanted to know about: Watching the solar eclipse What the typical lazy day is like Getting a shout-out from J Cole 21+ and present in NC. First online real money wager only. $10 Deposit req. Bonus issued as non-withdrawable bonus bets that expire 7 days after receipt. Restrictions apply. See full terms at fanduel.com/sportsbook. Gambling problem? Call 877-718-5543 or visit morethanagame.nc.gov. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. is back in the Bojangles Studio for another edition of Dirty Air. After another frustrating short track race for the NASCAR NextGen car, there was a lot to get into: Denny Hamlin/Marcus Smith Twitter beef Martinsville Cup winner William Byron calls in The sense of urgency to fix the short track package is FINALLY here Sammy Smith tries out Cherry Lemon SunDrop Dale’s advice for JRM driver Sam Mayer During the Ask Jr. portion of the show, listeners wanted to know about: Watching the solar eclipse What the typical lazy day is like Getting a shout-out from J Cole 21+ and present in NC. First online real money wager only. $10 Deposit req. Bonus issued as non-withdrawable bonus bets that expire 7 days after receipt. Restrictions apply. See full terms at fanduel.com/sportsbook. Gambling problem? Call 877-718-5543 or visit morethanagame.nc.gov. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

A driver's first NASCAR start: how important is it? Mark Martin, Michael Waltrip, Austin Cindric & Kelley Earnhardt Miller weigh in. You always remember your first. Most of the time when you hear that phrase in NASCAR, it's referring to a driver's first win. But what about the first start? On this week's Dale Jr. Download, Dale sat down with Bubba Pollard to rehash Bubba's first NASCAR national series start last weekend at Richmond. This got us thinking - how important is the first start? And what do drivers remember most about theirs? Want more Dirty Mo content? Check out and subscribe to the Dirty Mo Media YouTube page. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

A driver's first NASCAR start: how important is it? Mark Martin, Michael Waltrip, Austin Cindric & Kelley Earnhardt Miller weigh in.You always remember your first. Most of the time when you hear that phrase in NASCAR, it's referring to a driver's first win. But what about the first start? On this week's Dale Jr. Download, Dale sat down with Bubba Pollard to rehash Bubba's first NASCAR national series start last weekend at Richmond. This got us thinking - how important is the first start? And what do drivers remember most about theirs?Want more Dirty Mo content? Check out and subscribe to the Dirty Mo Media YouTube page. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. sits down with short track racing legend Bubba Pollard to discuss his impressive NASCAR Xfinity Series debut at Richmond. A longtime competitor in the super late model ranks, Pollard first worked with Dale and JR Motorsports in 2019 when he drove a late model stock entry in the ValleyStar 300 event at Martinsville. Pollard’s Xfinity debut on Saturday in the No. 88 JRM entry completed a lifelong dream of the Georgia driver. He explains that despite his great success on the short track level, this was the first real opportunity he’s received to drive in the NASCAR national series ranks. Pollard was born into a racing family dating back to his grandfather Hence, who built the long-running Senoia Raceway in his backyard. After his passing, the family sold the speedway and Bubba’s father, Sonny, entered the racing world himself, competing in the sportsman class locally. Bubba and his sister grew up at the track, and when he was 12 he started driving Legends cars. At the young age of 14, Bubba made the switch to late models and has gone on to win almost every marquee event the division has to offer. 21+ and present in NC. First online real money wager only. $10 Deposit req. Bonus issued as non-withdrawable bonus bets that expire 7 days after receipt. Restrictions apply. See full terms at fanduel.com/sportsbook. Gambling problem? Call 877-718-5543 or visit morethanagame.nc.gov. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. sits down with short track racing legend Bubba Pollard to discuss his impressive NASCAR Xfinity Series debut at Richmond. A longtime competitor in the super late model ranks, Pollard first worked with Dale and JR Motorsports in 2019 when he drove a late model stock entry in the ValleyStar 300 event at Martinsville. Pollard’s Xfinity debut on Saturday in the No. 88 JRM entry completed a lifelong dream of the Georgia driver. He explains that despite his great success on the short track level, this was the first real opportunity he’s received to drive in the NASCAR national series ranks.Pollard was born into a racing family dating back to his grandfather Hence, who built the long-running Senoia Raceway in his backyard. After his passing, the family sold the speedway and Bubba’s father, Sonny, entered the racing world himself, competing in the sportsman class locally. Bubba and his sister grew up at the track, and when he was 12 he started driving Legends cars. At the young age of 14, Bubba made the switch to late models and has gone on to win almost every marquee event the division has to offer.21+ and present in NC. First online real money wager only. $10 Deposit req. Bonus issued as non-withdrawable bonus bets that expire 7 days after receipt. Restrictions apply. See full terms at fanduel.com/sportsbook. Gambling problem? Call 877-718-5543 or visit morethanagame.nc.gov. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. is back from Easter vacation to recap the weekend happenings on another edition of Dirty Air and his wife, Amy, drops in. There was a lot to react to, from rain-tire strategy to jumped starts to Easter festivities: Starting the Richmond Cup race on rain tires was a long time coming Race strategies spoiled by untimely caution Richmond’s second race may be on the chopping block  Race winner Denny Hamlin calls in Dale reacts to the Richmond restart Amy stops by to talk about spending Easter with her family in TX in the new camper An audit of the NASCAR Cup season so far During the Ask Jr. portion of the episode, listeners sent in questions regarding: Memories of Dale Jr.’s first Cup win Least favorite household chores New records for Dale’s record collection To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. is back from Easter vacation to recap the weekend happenings on another edition of Dirty Air and his wife, Amy, drops in. There was a lot to react to, from rain-tire strategy to jumped starts to Easter festivities: Starting the Richmond Cup race on rain tires was a long time coming Race strategies spoiled by untimely caution Richmond’s second race may be on the chopping block  Race winner Denny Hamlin calls in Dale reacts to the Richmond restart Amy stops by to talk about spending Easter with her family in TX in the new camper An audit of the NASCAR Cup season so far During the Ask Jr. portion of the episode, listeners sent in questions regarding: Memories of Dale Jr.’s first Cup win Least favorite household chores New records for Dale’s record collection To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On DJD Reloaded, we're debating the role of pit crew members during an altercation between drivers. Leave it to the drivers only? Get in there and scrap? Diffuse the situation? Carla Gebhart is joined by Andrew Kurland and Jim Pohlman, crew chief of the No. 7 JR Motorsports Chevy of Justin Allgaier. Also, NASCAR Xfinity Series driver Parker Kligerman calls in to talk about his recent run-in with Sage Karam at COTA, and bury the hatchet with Pohlman over past incidents. Plus, we go all in on March Madness with a bracket for our Xfinity drivers on who emerges the winner from a pit-road smackdown. Want to hear yourself on the show? Hit up our Dale Call line: 704-584-9703. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On DJD Reloaded, we're debating the role of pit crew members during an altercation between drivers. Leave it to the drivers only? Get in there and scrap? Diffuse the situation? Carla Gebhart is joined by Andrew Kurland and Jim Pohlman, crew chief of the No. 7 JR Motorsports Chevy of Justin Allgaier. Also, NASCAR Xfinity Series driver Parker Kligerman calls in to talk about his recent run-in with Sage Karam at COTA, and bury the hatchet with Pohlman over past incidents. Plus, we go all in on March Madness with a bracket for our Xfinity drivers on who emerges the winner from a pit-road smackdown.Want to hear yourself on the show? Hit up our Dale Call line: 704-584-9703. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. sits down with longtime NASCAR competitor Bobby Hillin Jr. to chat about his journey to becoming one of the youngest winners in Cup history. After growing up in the oil industry of Texas through his family, Bobby was exposed to auto racing when his father purchased a sprint car and began competing with legendary drivers Jan Opperman and Bubby Jones behind the wheel. Bobby would find his way into racing through the mini stock division at his local Odessa Speedway. He would attend Buck Baker’s Driving School at Rockingham Speedway, and it was there he’d meet the legendary Harry Hyde. Bobby explains that it was Hyde who convinced his family that he was destined for NASCAR Cup competition, and he would make his debut as a junior in high school. Not long after, he’d make the move to Charlotte by himself in the middle of his senior year, and upon graduating he pursued stock cars full-time. Bobby would make NASCAR history when he won the 1986 Talladega 500, becoming the youngest winner in NASCAR at the time. Unfortunately, due to hardships at the Stavola Brothers team, Bobby would never be able to return to victory lane and spent the rest of his career searching for a consistent, competitive ride. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. sits down with longtime NASCAR competitor Bobby Hillin Jr. to chat about his journey to becoming one of the youngest winners in Cup history. After growing up in the oil industry of Texas through his family, Bobby was exposed to auto racing when his father purchased a sprint car and began competing with legendary drivers Jan Opperman and Bubby Jones behind the wheel. Bobby would find his way into racing through the mini stock division at his local Odessa Speedway. He would attend Buck Baker’s Driving School at Rockingham Speedway, and it was there he’d meet the legendary Harry Hyde.Bobby explains that it was Hyde who convinced his family that he was destined for NASCAR Cup competition, and he would make his debut as a junior in high school. Not long after, he’d make the move to Charlotte by himself in the middle of his senior year, and upon graduating he pursued stock cars full-time. Bobby would make NASCAR history when he won the 1986 Talladega 500, becoming the youngest winner in NASCAR at the time. Unfortunately, due to hardships at the Stavola Brothers team, Bobby would never be able to return to victory lane and spent the rest of his career searching for a consistent, competitive ride. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. is back in the Bojangles Studio for another edition of Dirty Air. All three of NASCAR’s top series were in Austin, Texas this past weekend to compete at the Circuit of the Americas, and there was a lot to unpack: Roaming scooter gangs Connor Zilisch’s eventful NASCAR debut What caused Marco Andretti’s rear end failure?  Austin Hill vs. SVG What NASCAR milestones are tweet-worthy?  Cup race winner William Byron calls in It’s time to bring the curbing back at COTA We need to revisit the NextGen road course package During the Ask Jr. segment of the episode, listeners sent in questions regarding: Dreaming about racing Weirdest items every autographed Tattoos The best neighbor To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. is back in the Bojangles Studio for another edition of Dirty Air. All three of NASCAR’s top series were in Austin, Texas this past weekend to compete at the Circuit of the Americas, and there was a lot to unpack: Roaming scooter gangs Connor Zilisch’s eventful NASCAR debut What caused Marco Andretti’s rear end failure?  Austin Hill vs. SVG What NASCAR milestones are tweet-worthy?  Cup race winner William Byron calls in It’s time to bring the curbing back at COTA We need to revisit the NextGen road course package During the Ask Jr. segment of the episode, listeners sent in questions regarding: Dreaming about racing Weirdest items every autographed Tattoos The best neighbor To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

What makes a short track great? Former DJD producer, Matthew Dillner, and DBC's Freddie Kraft square off in a spirited debate on all things short track. Our anonymous driver poll gives insights on what drivers want in a short track race and we listen to the best Dale Calls of the week. Ryan Preece calls in to share his thoughts and dishes on the most overrated short track in America. Check out and subscribe to the Dirty Mo YouTube channel. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

What makes a short track great? Former DJD producer, Matthew Dillner, and DBC's Freddie Kraft square off in a spirited debate on all things short track. Our anonymous driver poll gives insights on what drivers want in a short track race and we listen to the best Dale Calls of the week. Ryan Preece calls in to share his thoughts and dishes on the most overrated short track in America.Check out and subscribe to the Dirty Mo YouTube channel. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. is joined by Chase Elliott to unveil Elliott’s upcoming No. 9 throwback paint scheme and chat about the NextGen car and his return from injury last year. After surprising Dale with a tribute to his 2014 Daytona 500 winning car, the guys discussed Sunday’s chaotic Cup race at Bristol and Chase's impressions on the NextGen car in general. Chase reveals that after getting off to a good start in 2022, he feels like his performance has fallen off due to his traditional driving style not being as compatible in the new car. He explains that he spent the end of the 2023 season making adjustments and has enjoyed the challenge of getting up to speed. Dale asks Chase about his involvement in the “NASCAR: Full Speed” Netflix Series, to which he replied that he wasn’t sure he’d like to be involved if it was a hindrance to his racing preparation. They discuss Chase’s life in Dawsonville, Georgia and what it’s like working with the Hendrick Motorsports team based in the Charlotte area. The conversation also unpacks Chase’s 2023 snowboard-related leg injury and what that day was like for him, from the actual accident itself to making calls to Alan Gustafson and Rick Hendrick. Chase is candid about the rehabilitation process and what he did to return to racing. 21+ and present in NC. First online real money wager only. $10 Deposit req. Bonus issued as non-withdrawable bonus bets that expire 7 days after receipt. Restrictions apply. See full terms at fanduel.com/sportsbook. Gambling problem? Call 877-718-5543 or visit morethanagame.nc.gov. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. is joined by Chase Elliott to unveil Elliott’s upcoming No. 9 throwback paint scheme and chat about the NextGen car and his return from injury last year. After surprising Dale with a tribute to his 2014 Daytona 500 winning car, the guys discussed Sunday’s chaotic Cup race at Bristol and Chase's impressions on the NextGen car in general. Chase reveals that after getting off to a good start in 2022, he feels like his performance has fallen off due to his traditional driving style not being as compatible in the new car. He explains that he spent the end of the 2023 season making adjustments and has enjoyed the challenge of getting up to speed.Dale asks Chase about his involvement in the “NASCAR: Full Speed” Netflix Series, to which he replied that he wasn’t sure he’d like to be involved if it was a hindrance to his racing preparation. They discuss Chase’s life in Dawsonville, Georgia and what it’s like working with the Hendrick Motorsports team based in the Charlotte area. The conversation also unpacks Chase’s 2023 snowboard-related leg injury and what that day was like for him, from the actual accident itself to making calls to Alan Gustafson and Rick Hendrick. Chase is candid about the rehabilitation process and what he did to return to racing.21+ and present in NC. First online real money wager only. $10 Deposit req. Bonus issued as non-withdrawable bonus bets that expire 7 days after receipt. Restrictions apply. See full terms at fanduel.com/sportsbook. Gambling problem? Call 877-718-5543 or visit morethanagame.nc.gov. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. reacts to Sunday’s wild NASCAR Cup race at Bristol on this edition of Dirty Air. The racing world is abuzz after the stunning 500-lap event, which saw teams and drivers scrambling to get ahead of the tire wear situation: A step in the right direction for short tracks? Race winner Denny Hamlin calls in How will Goodyear react to the race? A little more practice could help avoid a crisis  Asphalt vs. concrete  During the Ask Jr. portion of the episode, listeners wanted to know all about: Dale shaving his beard Having music played through his helmet during races NCAA bracket picks Favorite weekend morning cartoons Dale’s steering wheel technique 21+ and present in NC. First online real money wager only. $10 Deposit req. Bonus issued as non-withdrawable bonus bets that expire 7 days after receipt. Restrictions apply. See full terms at fanduel.com/sportsbook. Gambling problem? Call 877-718-5543 or visit morethanagame.nc.gov. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. reacts to Sunday’s wild NASCAR Cup race at Bristol on this edition of Dirty Air. The racing world is abuzz after the stunning 500-lap event, which saw teams and drivers scrambling to get ahead of the tire wear situation: A step in the right direction for short tracks? Race winner Denny Hamlin calls in How will Goodyear react to the race? A little more practice could help avoid a crisis  Asphalt vs. concrete  During the Ask Jr. portion of the episode, listeners wanted to know all about: Dale shaving his beard Having music played through his helmet during races NCAA bracket picks Favorite weekend morning cartoons Dale’s steering wheel technique 21+ and present in NC. First online real money wager only. $10 Deposit req. Bonus issued as non-withdrawable bonus bets that expire 7 days after receipt. Restrictions apply. See full terms at fanduel.com/sportsbook. Gambling problem? Call 877-718-5543 or visit morethanagame.nc.gov. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Carla & Andrew are joined by guest Regan Smith to break down the best revenge moments in NASCAR. We dig up new dirt on Dale's old run-in with Jason Keller, who joins the show to speak on the incident for the first time. Plus, we hear this week's best Dale Calls and try to guess which driver Dale says wrecked him during the playoffs. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Carla & Andrew are joined by guest Regan Smith to break down the best revenge moments in NASCAR. We dig up new dirt on Dale's old run-in with Jason Keller, who joins the show to speak on the incident for the first time. Plus, we hear this week's best Dale Calls and try to guess which driver Dale says wrecked him during the playoffs. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. reconnects with a figure from his past when he sits down with Team Penske NASCAR team manager Jefferson Hodges. After growing up admiring his Uncle Dale Lemonds’ racing career, Jefferson found his way into the racing world through Rick Townsend’s late model stock outfit in the Richmond, Virginia area. From there, he’d make his way onto the NASCAR Cup scene thanks to Tommy Baldwin, who was working for Junie Donlavey Racing at the time. When the Donlavey team began to slow, Jefferson returned to Townsend and found his footing as a team leader and crew chief.  Jefferson would play an integral role in the progression of JR Motorsports from a late model stock team to one of the leading organizations in the NASCAR Xfinity roster. Jefferson had found success in the late model ranks with driver Mark McFarland, and after taking home a NASCAR Whelen All-American Championship, the two were destined for Charlotte. Through a driver-switch up, the two found themselves at JR Motorsports, and when success in late models led to the possibility of expanding into NASCAR’s secondary division, the number-88 Xfinity ride was born.  Fan Duel Disclaimer: Availability subject to regulatory approval. 21+ and present in NC. Bonuses are issued in non-withdrawable bonus bets that expire 30 days after FanDuel accepts its first real money sports wager in NC. Unique user identity verification required. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling problem? Call 877-718-5543 or visit morethanagame.nc.gov. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. reconnects with a figure from his past when he sits down with Team Penske NASCAR team manager Jefferson Hodges. After growing up admiring his Uncle Dale Lemonds’ racing career, Jefferson found his way into the racing world through Rick Townsend’s late model stock outfit in the Richmond, Virginia area. From there, he’d make his way onto the NASCAR Cup scene thanks to Tommy Baldwin, who was working for Junie Donlavey Racing at the time. When the Donlavey team began to slow, Jefferson returned to Townsend and found his footing as a team leader and crew chief. Jefferson would play an integral role in the progression of JR Motorsports from a late model stock team to one of the leading organizations in the NASCAR Xfinity roster. Jefferson had found success in the late model ranks with driver Mark McFarland, and after taking home a NASCAR Whelen All-American Championship, the two were destined for Charlotte. Through a driver-switch up, the two found themselves at JR Motorsports, and when success in late models led to the possibility of expanding into NASCAR’s secondary division, the number-88 Xfinity ride was born. Fan Duel Disclaimer: Availability subject to regulatory approval.21+ and present in NC. Bonuses are issued in non-withdrawable bonus bets that expire 30 days after FanDuel accepts its first real money sports wager in NC. Unique user identity verification required. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling problem? Call 877-718-5543 or visit morethanagame.nc.gov. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. is back from vacation and ready to get back into things on a new edition of Dirty Air. This episode features Kyle Larson, C. Bell, Connor Zilisch and Dale’s reactions to the NASCAR weekend in Phoenix, plus: Changing a flat tire on vacation Watching the Xfinity race with Isla Phoenix is Phoenix Larson’s make-up call Christopher Bell chats about his win Connor Zilisch talks about piloting the JRM No. 88 car During the Ask Jr. segment of the episode, listeners wrote in questions regarding: Bringing back the frosted tips Story behind the Sun Drop late model Favorite road trip snacks and drinks Favorite spots in Key West 21+ and present in NC. First online real money wager only. $10 Deposit req. Bonus issued as non-withdrawable bonus bets that expire 7 days after receipt. Restrictions apply. See full terms at fanduel.com/sportsbook. Gambling problem? Call 877-718-5543 or visit morethanagame.nc.gov. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. is back from vacation and ready to get back into things on a new edition of Dirty Air. This episode features Kyle Larson, C. Bell, Connor Zilisch and Dale’s reactions to the NASCAR weekend in Phoenix, plus: Changing a flat tire on vacation Watching the Xfinity race with Isla Phoenix is Phoenix Larson’s make-up call Christopher Bell chats about his win Connor Zilisch talks about piloting the JRM No. 88 car During the Ask Jr. segment of the episode, listeners wrote in questions regarding: Bringing back the frosted tips Story behind the Sun Drop late model Favorite road trip snacks and drinks Favorite spots in Key West 21+ and present in NC. First online real money wager only. $10 Deposit req. Bonus issued as non-withdrawable bonus bets that expire 7 days after receipt. Restrictions apply. See full terms at fanduel.com/sportsbook. Gambling problem? Call 877-718-5543 or visit morethanagame.nc.gov. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Carla and Andrew are back in the Bojangles studio, and are joined this week by Karsyn Elledge of CARS Tour. With Dale on spring break, everyone gives their best Dale Jr. impressions, and JR Motorsports' own, Steven Steffen, stops by to join in on the fun. Plus, we open up the Dale Calls to hear the best impressions from fans. And we look back at the best moments from Tuesday's Dirty Air show, hosted by Ryan McGee. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Carla and Andrew are back in the Bojangles studio, and are joined this week by Karsyn Elledge of CARS Tour. With Dale on spring break, everyone gives their best Dale Jr. impressions, and JR Motorsports' own, Steven Steffen, stops by to join in on the fun. Plus, we open up the Dale Calls to hear the best impressions from fans. And we look back at the best moments from Tuesday's Dirty Air show, hosted by Ryan McGee. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Kelley Earnhardt Miller welcomes World Racing Group CEO Brian Carter for the first edition of the Business of Motorsports for the 2024 season. After growing up a racing fan in Texas, Carter ventured into the business finance world working for Deloitte and specializing in public to private transactions. In the early 2000s, while working with a software company, he was approached by the owners of Boundless Motorsports, who were in the process of purchasing the World of Outlaws and United Midwest Promoters operations. Carter jumped at the opportunity to get involved with the dirt racing enterprise, and a short time later he became CEO of what is now known as World Racing Group.   Brian and Kelley discuss the state of the motorsports business world in the early 2000s, when a lot of major racing entities such as NASCAR, Speedway Motorsports Inc and WRG were publicly traded companies. He also explains the vertical structure of WRG, which encompasses 15 dirt touring series across the country, sanctioning racing in many different divisions of short track cars. The interview covers WRG’s streaming platform DirtVision and its impact on increasing awareness and exposure on both a weekly and national racing scale. Carter explains that having more of WRG’s events available for countrywide viewership has not only helped create an influx of sponsorship funding for short track racers, but it's helped bring new spectators through the track gates.  To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Kelley Earnhardt Miller welcomes World Racing Group CEO Brian Carter for the first edition of the Business of Motorsports for the 2024 season. After growing up a racing fan in Texas, Carter ventured into the business finance world working for Deloitte and specializing in public to private transactions. In the early 2000s, while working with a software company, he was approached by the owners of Boundless Motorsports, who were in the process of purchasing the World of Outlaws and United Midwest Promoters operations. Carter jumped at the opportunity to get involved with the dirt racing enterprise, and a short time later he became CEO of what is now known as World Racing Group. Brian and Kelley discuss the state of the motorsports business world in the early 2000s, when a lot of major racing entities such as NASCAR, Speedway Motorsports Inc and WRG were publicly traded companies. He also explains the vertical structure of WRG, which encompasses 15 dirt touring series across the country, sanctioning racing in many different divisions of short track cars. The interview covers WRG’s streaming platform DirtVision and its impact on increasing awareness and exposure on both a weekly and national racing scale. Carter explains that having more of WRG’s events available for countrywide viewership has not only helped create an influx of sponsorship funding for short track racers, but it's helped bring new spectators through the track gates.  To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. is on spring break, so his longtime friend and co-author of “Racing to the Finish” Ryan McGee is filling in. You might recognize Ryan from his longtime coverage of motorsports for ESPN and his popular show with recent Download guest Marty Smith, “Marty & McGee.” There was a lot to discuss after a full weekend of NASCAR action in Las Vegas: Writing “Racing to the Finish” with Dale Jr. Working with Dale Sr. as a young reporter Rajah Caruth’s big first Truck win John Hunter Nemechek continues to excel What Kyle Larson’s 24th NASCAR Cup win really means During as special “Ask McGee” segment, listeners tuned into YouTube live and sent in questions about: Ryan’s favorite Dale Jr. stories What he learned about Dale Jr. while writing the book What it’s like working on “Marty & McGee” To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. is on spring break, so his longtime friend and co-author of “Racing to the Finish” Ryan McGee is filling in. You might recognize Ryan from his longtime coverage of motorsports for ESPN and his popular show with recent Download guest Marty Smith, “Marty & McGee.” There was a lot to discuss after a full weekend of NASCAR action in Las Vegas: Writing “Racing to the Finish” with Dale Jr. Working with Dale Sr. as a young reporter Rajah Caruth’s big first Truck win John Hunter Nemechek continues to excel What Kyle Larson’s 24th NASCAR Cup win really means During as special “Ask McGee” segment, listeners tuned into YouTube live and sent in questions about: Ryan’s favorite Dale Jr. stories What he learned about Dale Jr. while writing the book What it’s like working on “Marty & McGee” To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Andrew and Carla recap all the cheating news across NASCAR this week, welcome Kip Childress, Executive Director of CARS Tour, to the Bojangles studio, and driver Bubba Pollard joins to announce his Xfinity Series opportunity at JR Motorsports. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Andrew and Carla recap all the cheating news across NASCAR this week, welcome Kip Childress, Executive Director of CARS Tour, to the Bojangles studio, and driver Bubba Pollard joins to announce his Xfinity Series opportunity at JR Motorsports. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. invites NASCAR Hall of Fame engine builder and crew chief Waddell Wilson to the Bojangles Studio for a conversation about his storied career. Waddell details his journey from his home of Bakersville, North Carolina to the Nashville Auto Diesel College, which he learned about from a recruiter at his high school. Upon graduation, his journey took him to Florida, where he actually took a chance on racing himself at Miami-area strongholds like Hialeah, Palmetto and Hollywood. Eventually, a demolished racecar would extinguish his hopes of making a living behind the wheel and he headed back home in search of work. Waddell explains that at the suggestion of a friend he went to inquire about a job at the famed Holman-Moody race team, which at the time was Ford’s manufacturing arm in NASCAR. After a chance meeting with owner John Holman, Waddell was thrown into the most challenging area of the shop: the engine room. He passed an initiation of sorts and over time developed into one of NASCAR’s greatest engine building minds. Waddell went on to build engines for and work with some of NASCAR’s greatest drivers, and he fills listeners in on the characters inside the helmet like Fireball Roberts, Bobby Allison and Buddy Baker. Finally, Dale gets to pick Waddell’s brain about the legendary “Gray Ghost” Oldsmobile that helped Ranier Racing and Buddy Baker be a dominant force at superspeedways in 1979 and ‘80. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. invites NASCAR Hall of Fame engine builder and crew chief Waddell Wilson to the Bojangles Studio for a conversation about his storied career. Waddell details his journey from his home of Bakersville, North Carolina to the Nashville Auto Diesel College, which he learned about from a recruiter at his high school. Upon graduation, his journey took him to Florida, where he actually took a chance on racing himself at Miami-area strongholds like Hialeah, Palmetto and Hollywood. Eventually, a demolished racecar would extinguish his hopes of making a living behind the wheel and he headed back home in search of work.Waddell explains that at the suggestion of a friend he went to inquire about a job at the famed Holman-Moody race team, which at the time was Ford’s manufacturing arm in NASCAR. After a chance meeting with owner John Holman, Waddell was thrown into the most challenging area of the shop: the engine room. He passed an initiation of sorts and over time developed into one of NASCAR’s greatest engine building minds. Waddell went on to build engines for and work with some of NASCAR’s greatest drivers, and he fills listeners in on the characters inside the helmet like Fireball Roberts, Bobby Allison and Buddy Baker. Finally, Dale gets to pick Waddell’s brain about the legendary “Gray Ghost” Oldsmobile that helped Ranier Racing and Buddy Baker be a dominant force at superspeedways in 1979 and ‘80.FanDuel Disclaimer: Must be 21+ and present in select states. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. has been singing the praises of the Atlanta Motor Speedway reconfiguration since last season, and the track delivered one of the best finishes in NASCAR history this past Sunday. There was much to cover from weekend two of the NASCAR schedule on this edition of Dirty Air: The critics have been quieted Reconfiguring tracks through iRacing technology Joey Logano’s gloves and new creativity Atlanta race winner Daniel Suárez calls in Rethinking how we film Atlanta’s races Fuel saving in the Xfinity race When the Download gang took to Youtube live for the Ask Jr. segment, listeners wrote in questions regarding: Being a youth sports coach Strangest place Dale has been recognized New house projects Story behind the Oreo/Ritz mash-up car Running a half marathon To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. has been singing the praises of the Atlanta Motor Speedway reconfiguration since last season, and the track delivered one of the best finishes in NASCAR history this past Sunday. There was much to cover from weekend two of the NASCAR schedule on this edition of Dirty Air: The critics have been quieted Reconfiguring tracks through iRacing technology Joey Logano’s gloves and new creativity Atlanta race winner Daniel Suárez calls in Rethinking how we film Atlanta’s races Fuel saving in the Xfinity race When the Download gang took to Youtube live for the Ask Jr. segment, listeners wrote in questions regarding: Being a youth sports coach Strangest place Dale has been recognized New house projects Story behind the Oreo/Ritz mash-up car Running a half marathon To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Alex Bowman joins to talk about his runner-up finish in the 500, Dale Jr. stops by to break some news. Plus, Andrew goes Man On The Street down in Daytona and asks drivers/fans what they'd be willing to sacrifice for a championship. And hear some of Ray Evernham's untold stories. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Alex Bowman joins to talk about his runner-up finish in the 500, Dale Jr. stops by to break some news. Plus, Andrew goes Man On The Street down in Daytona and asks drivers/fans what they'd be willing to sacrifice for a championship. And hear some of Ray Evernham's untold stories. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. reunites with legendary NASCAR crew chief Ray Evernham to talk about his new book and catch up on his life since his last appearance in 2020. The book, titled “Trophies and Scars” is an autobiography that Ray explains is designed to help show his family and friends who have helped him along the way how he’s evolved over the years. Ray says that a couple of the bigger moments outlined in the book are how the success of fellow modified racer Tony Siscone inspired him to take things to the next level in 1983 and his departure from Hendrick Motorsports in 1999. Dale also inquired more about Ray leaving Jeff Gordon and what in retrospect could have been done to prevent the split from happening. They dive into Ray’s growth from being a journeyman chassis engineer to one of the most prominent crew chiefs in the ‘90s, to which Ray credits taking lessons from other leaders like Jeff Hammond and reading books written by successful coaches. Ray discusses having great admiration for Dale Earnhardt Sr. but having to learn to turn it off when it came to competing on track. The interview also goes on to discuss Ray’s time with IROC in the ‘80s and how he came to acquire the name and trademark this year, his future plans for the once legendary series, his departure from SRX and how he helped revolutionize the NASCAR Cup pit crew.  To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. reunites with legendary NASCAR crew chief Ray Evernham to talk about his new book and catch up on his life since his last appearance in 2020. The book, titled “Trophies and Scars” is an autobiography that Ray explains is designed to help show his family and friends who have helped him along the way how he’s evolved over the years. Ray says that a couple of the bigger moments outlined in the book are how the success of fellow modified racer Tony Siscone inspired him to take things to the next level in 1983 and his departure from Hendrick Motorsports in 1999. Dale also inquired more about Ray leaving Jeff Gordon and what in retrospect could have been done to prevent the split from happening.They dive into Ray’s growth from being a journeyman chassis engineer to one of the most prominent crew chiefs in the ‘90s, to which Ray credits taking lessons from other leaders like Jeff Hammond and reading books written by successful coaches. Ray discusses having great admiration for Dale Earnhardt Sr. but having to learn to turn it off when it came to competing on track. The interview also goes on to discuss Ray’s time with IROC in the ‘80s and how he came to acquire the name and trademark this year, his future plans for the once legendary series, his departure from SRX and how he helped revolutionize the NASCAR Cup pit crew.  To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. is back from a rainy weekend in Daytona to deliver another edition of Dirty Air. Despite Mother Nature proving to be unpredictable scrambling the weekend schedule, there was still a lot of NASCAR action to unpack: Amy is in the house to set the record straight Dale experiences a parking fiasco What can be done to cut down on wrecks in the Truck races? The latest on the NASCAR charter negotiations Daytona 500 Champion William Byron calls in How was the finish actually determined?  During the Ask Jr. portion of the episode, listeners sent in questions regarding: Dale’s favorite Girl Scout cookie Favorite Earnhardt family tradition? Is Dale a good gift giver? Isla and Nicole playing sports To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. is back from a rainy weekend in Daytona to deliver another edition of Dirty Air. Despite Mother Nature proving to be unpredictable scrambling the weekend schedule, there was still a lot of NASCAR action to unpack: Amy is in the house to set the record straight Dale experiences a parking fiasco What can be done to cut down on wrecks in the Truck races? The latest on the NASCAR charter negotiations Daytona 500 Champion William Byron calls in How was the finish actually determined?  During the Ask Jr. portion of the episode, listeners sent in questions regarding: Dale’s favorite Girl Scout cookie Favorite Earnhardt family tradition? Is Dale a good gift giver? Isla and Nicole playing sports To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week on DJD Reloaded, Casey, Travis, and Andrew get you ready for the 66th running of The Great American Race and Carla joins from Daytona to give an update from the track. Plus, we hear from the 'Dale Calls' fan line, and Jeff Gordon shares his favorite rap song. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week on DJD Reloaded, Casey, Travis, and Andrew get you ready for the 66th running of The Great American Race and Carla joins from Daytona to give an update from the track. Plus, we hear from the 'Dale Calls' fan line, and Jeff Gordon shares his favorite rap song. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In an effort to learn more about the current charter negotiations between Cup team owners and the NASCAR organization, Dale Earnhardt Jr. sits down with Vice Chairman of Hendrick Motorsports Jeff Gordon. If a guest makes a repeat appearance on the Dale Jr. Download, it’s likely because they are such a monumental subject that it's impossible to cover with just one interview. That can certainly be said about Jeff, who first appeared on the show in December 2018 as he was working at Fox Sports as a commentator following his storied racing career. Since then, he has moved into an integral role at the Hendrick Motorsports organization, and provides listeners with great insight into the current talks between the Race Team Alliance and the NASCAR brass. Dale also inquires about Jeff’s thoughts on the NextGen car in Cup competition, to which Jeff details the challenges teams face in the race shop and how consistency is crucial to on-track success. The story of transitioning from the broadcast booth to an executive role at HMS is covered, which began all the way back in 2000 when Jeff signed a lifetime contract with Rick Hendrick. Dale fields a few questions from fans for Jeff, and they chat about how post-racing life has affected their at home environments with their families.  To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In an effort to learn more about the current charter negotiations between Cup team owners and the NASCAR organization, Dale Earnhardt Jr. sits down with Vice Chairman of Hendrick Motorsports Jeff Gordon. If a guest makes a repeat appearance on the Dale Jr. Download, it’s likely because they are such a monumental subject that it's impossible to cover with just one interview. That can certainly be said about Jeff, who first appeared on the show in December 2018 as he was working at Fox Sports as a commentator following his storied racing career. Since then, he has moved into an integral role at the Hendrick Motorsports organization, and provides listeners with great insight into the current talks between the Race Team Alliance and the NASCAR brass.Dale also inquires about Jeff’s thoughts on the NextGen car in Cup competition, to which Jeff details the challenges teams face in the race shop and how consistency is crucial to on-track success. The story of transitioning from the broadcast booth to an executive role at HMS is covered, which began all the way back in 2000 when Jeff signed a lifetime contract with Rick Hendrick. Dale fields a few questions from fans for Jeff, and they chat about how post-racing life has affected their at home environments with their families.  To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It’s time to gear up for Daytona, and Dale Earnhardt Jr. has a new edition of Dirty Air to get you ready for the high banks. After making his season debut in late model competition for the Icebreaker event at Florence Motor Speedway, there was a lot to chat about: Geoff Bodine’s new book Returning to roller skates Icebreaker recap Reliving the 2004 & 2014 Daytona 500 wins 10 years of Dale on Twitter Daytona 500 predictions During the Ask Jr. segment of the episode, listeners sent in questions regarding: Sneezing during a race The Menards Super Bowl commercial Advice for first Valentine’s Day dates Favorite pre-race activity for the Daytona 500 To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It’s time to gear up for Daytona, and Dale Earnhardt Jr. has a new edition of Dirty Air to get you ready for the high banks. After making his season debut in late model competition for the Icebreaker event at Florence Motor Speedway, there was a lot to chat about: Geoff Bodine’s new book Returning to roller skates Icebreaker recap Reliving the 2004 & 2014 Daytona 500 wins 10 years of Dale on Twitter Daytona 500 predictions During the Ask Jr. segment of the episode, listeners sent in questions regarding: Sneezing during a race The Menards Super Bowl commercial Advice for first Valentine’s Day dates Favorite pre-race activity for the Daytona 500 To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Join us for the first-ever DJD Reloaded, the place on the Dale Jr. Download for fans to interact and recap the fully loaded week of podcasting. This week we will talk about: - Where the Clash should end up in the future? - Marty Smith and the "Full Speed" on Netflix - Early Championship Predictions (and Sleeper Picks!) 13:35:631 & m To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Join us for the first-ever DJD Reloaded, the place on the Dale Jr. Download for fans to interact and recap the fully loaded week of podcasting.This week we will talk about:- Where the Clash should end up in the future?- Marty Smith and the "Full Speed" on Netflix- Early Championship Predictions (and Sleeper Picks!)13:35:631 & m To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. kicks off the 2024 Download season with a bang by inviting his longtime friend and legendary ESPN Sports broadcaster Marty Smith to the Bojangles Studio. While the two have known each other since 1998, Dale had much to learn about Marty’s background and his rise to becoming one of the prominent figures in sports media today. Marty recounts his journey from interning for sports papers in college to becoming a full-time writer for NASCAR, a path that opened up after his pursuit of playing college baseball came to a halt.  As Dale continues into his post-racing life in the commentator’s booth, he wants to pick Marty’s brain about the art of juggling a hectic work-traveling schedule and his family life. Marty was very candid about the struggles his family faced as his work in racing kept him away from home for weeks on end, leaving his wife to raise their three children alone. Thanks to his renowned work ethic and personality, Marty has found his way into the homes of millions on ESPN College GameDay and the Marty & McGee Show.  To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. kicks off the 2024 Download season with a bang by inviting his longtime friend and legendary ESPN Sports broadcaster Marty Smith to the Bojangles Studio. While the two have known each other since 1998, Dale had much to learn about Marty’s background and his rise to becoming one of the prominent figures in sports media today. Marty recounts his journey from interning for sports papers in college to becoming a full-time writer for NASCAR, a path that opened up after his pursuit of playing college baseball came to a halt. As Dale continues into his post-racing life in the commentator’s booth, he wants to pick Marty’s brain about the art of juggling a hectic work-traveling schedule and his family life. Marty was very candid about the struggles his family faced as his work in racing kept him away from home for weeks on end, leaving his wife to raise their three children alone. Thanks to his renowned work ethic and personality, Marty has found his way into the homes of millions on ESPN College GameDay and the Marty & McGee Show.  To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. returns to the Bojangles Studio after the off season to usher in a new era of the Dale Jr. Download. To kick things off, Dale introduces listeners to the new layout of the Download, which will feature him as a stand-alone host interacting with various producers in the studio. On the heels of the Clash at the Coliseum, there was plenty of racing action to discuss: What's the future of the Clash? A lot of driver beef for an exhibition race Missing Daytona Speedweeks? Way too early 2024 Cup predictions Clash winner Denny Hamlin calls in During the first Ask Jr. segment of the season, listeners joined the Download crew via Youtube Live and sent in questions regarding: Funko Pops Super Bowl predictions Favorite Toby Keith songs Where Dale wants to race this year To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. returns to the Bojangles Studio after the off season to usher in a new era of the Dale Jr. Download. To kick things off, Dale introduces listeners to the new layout of the Download, which will feature him as a stand-alone host interacting with various producers in the studio. On the heels of the Clash at the Coliseum, there was plenty of racing action to discuss: What's the future of the Clash? A lot of driver beef for an exhibition race Missing Daytona Speedweeks? Way too early 2024 Cup predictions Clash winner Denny Hamlin calls in During the first Ask Jr. segment of the season, listeners joined the Download crew via Youtube Live and sent in questions regarding: Funko Pops Super Bowl predictions Favorite Toby Keith songs Where Dale wants to race this year To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this improvised comedy podcast, Ike Barinholtz stars as controversial shock jock host Chris Chatman. Chatman’s hit podcast was canceled but he's listened, learned, and is back on the mic to finally win over a few female listeners. Or maybe even just one. In each episode, Chatman and his co-hosts Frankie (Lisa Gilroy) and the Professor (Neil Casey) unpack hot-button issues with expert guests but offend pretty much everyone in the process. Guest stars include Amy Poehler, Fred Armisen, Ashley Nicole Black, Carla Cackowski, Craig Cackowski, Liz Cackowski, Jessica St. Clair, E.R. Fightmaster, Ego Nwodim, Busy Philipps, Emily Spivey, and Alice Stanley Jr. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this improvised comedy podcast, Ike Barinholtz stars as controversial shock jock host Chris Chatman. Chatman’s hit podcast was canceled but he's listened, learned, and is back on the mic to finally win over a few female listeners. Or maybe even just one. In each episode, Chatman and his co-hosts Frankie (Lisa Gilroy) and the Professor (Neil Casey) unpack hot-button issues with expert guests but offend pretty much everyone in the process. Guest stars include Amy Poehler, Fred Armisen, Ashley Nicole Black, Carla Cackowski, Craig Cackowski, Liz Cackowski, Jessica St. Clair, E.R. Fightmaster, Ego Nwodim, Busy Philipps, Emily Spivey, and Alice Stanley Jr. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On today's episode of The Dale Jr. Download, we're counting down the best GUEST moments from this past season. We had a lot of great guests stop by the Bojangles studio in 2023. NASCAR legends like Donnie Allison, Tony Stewart, and Chip Ganassi. Longtime DEI employees Slugger Labbe, Richie Gilmore, and Steve Hmiel. Even WWE Superstar Cody Rhodes. Moments from this episode include; Hut Stricklin was Tom Cruise's driving coach? Chip Ganassi's surprising sale to Trackhouse, DEI memories, sponsorship-marriage hiccups, and heartfelt goodbyes. Enjoy! To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On today's episode of The Dale Jr. Download, we're counting down the best GUEST moments from this past season. We had a lot of great guests stop by the Bojangles studio in 2023. NASCAR legends like Donnie Allison, Tony Stewart, and Chip Ganassi. Longtime DEI employees Slugger Labbe, Richie Gilmore, and Steve Hmiel. Even WWE Superstar Cody Rhodes. Moments from this episode include; Hut Stricklin was Tom Cruise's driving coach? Chip Ganassi's surprising sale to Trackhouse, DEI memories, sponsorship-marriage hiccups, and heartfelt goodbyes. Enjoy! To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Season 10 of The Dale Jr. Download has officially come to a close. Our Dirty Air segment brought us a lot of laughs, debates, and storylines. From Denny Hamlin and Kyle Larson's beef to Chase Elliott being suspended, to Mike's Alabama playlist and Dale Jr.'s Cryotherapy experiment, there are many great moments to look back on! Here are the best Dirty Air moments from this past year on The Dale Jr. Download. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Season 10 of The Dale Jr. Download has officially come to a close. Our Dirty Air segment brought us a lot of laughs, debates, and storylines. From Denny Hamlin and Kyle Larson's beef to Chase Elliott being suspended, to Mike's Alabama playlist and Dale Jr.'s Cryotherapy experiment, there are many great moments to look back on! Here are the best Dirty Air moments from this past year on The Dale Jr. Download. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

With the first year of podcasting in the books for Denny Hamlin, it’s time to hash it out with the bossman, Dale Jr., in an end-of-the-year performance review. The two cover Denny’s new platform to speak his mind, the moments where he may have pushed the line, and whether or not Denny regrets receiving the infamous penalty early in the year.   The two also look ahead towards next year, discussing the possibility of NASCAR implementing an in-season bracket challenge, sports betting in the racing world, adding more horsepower to the Cup cars, and which guest is on the top of Denny’s list to join Actions Detrimental in Season 2. Plus, Hamlin provides an update on his recent shoulder surgery and shares how it impacted him late in the 2023 race season... and even into the offseason, leaving him with plenty of challenges on his hands before 2024.  To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

With the first year of podcasting in the books for Denny Hamlin, it’s time to hash it out with the bossman, Dale Jr., in an end-of-the-year performance review. The two cover Denny’s new platform to speak his mind, the moments where he may have pushed the line, and whether or not Denny regrets receiving the infamous penalty early in the year. The two also look ahead towards next year, discussing the possibility of NASCAR implementing an in-season bracket challenge, sports betting in the racing world, adding more horsepower to the Cup cars, and which guest is on the top of Denny’s list to join Actions Detrimental in Season 2.Plus, Hamlin provides an update on his recent shoulder surgery and shares how it impacted him late in the 2023 race season... and even into the offseason, leaving him with plenty of challenges on his hands before 2024.  To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Is a Ronda Rousey rematch around the corner? In Chapter 2 of Next Level, host Andrew Kurland and MMA fighter Miesha Tate discuss her famous rivalry with Ronda Rousey, along with the legacy it left behind. Miesha opens up about the emotions she felt during that period of time, and shares where she stands with Ronda today. Miesha also dives into her return from retirement and how she approaches fighting differently in this new chapter of her career. What type of reactions do her kids have to her fighting? How does she cope with the concept of wins and losses? And what is the biggest struggle that professional athletes go through that isn't talked about? It's a conversation full of perspective, wisdom and insight that goes beyond the sports world. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Is a Ronda Rousey rematch around the corner? In Chapter 2 of Next Level, host Andrew Kurland and MMA fighter Miesha Tate discuss her famous rivalry with Ronda Rousey, along with the legacy it left behind. Miesha opens up about the emotions she felt during that period of time, and shares where she stands with Ronda today. Miesha also dives into her return from retirement and how she approaches fighting differently in this new chapter of her career.What type of reactions do her kids have to her fighting? How does she cope with the concept of wins and losses? And what is the biggest struggle that professional athletes go through that isn't talked about?It's a conversation full of perspective, wisdom and insight that goes beyond the sports world. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It’s the final episode of the Dale Jr. Download for this season and Dale Earnhardt Jr. bids longtime co-host Mike Davis farewell as he will not be joining the show next year. Mike explains that he’ll be stepping back from the show to better serve his position as President of Dirty Mo Media. The guys debriefed from their Wednesday interview with recent NASCAR Cup retiree Kevin Harvick. They also take the opportunity to fill out report cards for the 2023 NASCAR Playoffs roster and make some way too early predictions for next year.  During the Ask Jr. segment of the episode, listeners sent in questions regarding: The acceptable time of year to start listening to Christmas music Tipping for breaking up with someone Way too early New Year’s resolutions To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It’s the final episode of the Dale Jr. Download for this season and Dale Earnhardt Jr. bids longtime co-host Mike Davis farewell as he will not be joining the show next year. Mike explains that he’ll be stepping back from the show to better serve his position as President of Dirty Mo Media. The guys debriefed from their Wednesday interview with recent NASCAR Cup retiree Kevin Harvick. They also take the opportunity to fill out report cards for the 2023 NASCAR Playoffs roster and make some way too early predictions for next year. During the Ask Jr. segment of the episode, listeners sent in questions regarding: The acceptable time of year to start listening to Christmas music Tipping for breaking up with someone Way too early New Year’s resolutions To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Kevin Harvick steps out of the driver’s seat and into the Bojangles Studio to join Dale Earnhardt Jr. on this episode of the Download. Fresh off his last start as a full-time Cup competitor, Kevin returns to the show to discuss his retirement weekend with Dale and co-host Mike Davis. Although he’s developed a reputation for being a stern personality, Kevin explains the overwhelming emotion he felt throughout the race weekend in Phoenix. They also chat about the things that Kevin thought he would miss about being behind the wheel and some of the advice he received from fellow retirees.  While he may be absent from the starting grid next year, Kevin will still be a prominent member of the sport both as a broadcaster, a racing dad, and a series owner. Dale and Kevin examine the transition from racer to commentator and what to look forward to in the Fox Sports booth next year. Kevin also highlights ways he hopes to impart knowledge to up-and-coming drivers through Kevin Harvick Inc. Management and being a car and series owner for the CARS Tour.  Finally, Kevin touches on prepping his son Keelan for a long racing career to help continue the Harvick racing legacy, which has spanned the last 30 years. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Kevin Harvick steps out of the driver’s seat and into the Bojangles Studio to join Dale Earnhardt Jr. on this episode of the Download. Fresh off his last start as a full-time Cup competitor, Kevin returns to the show to discuss his retirement weekend with Dale and co-host Mike Davis. Although he’s developed a reputation for being a stern personality, Kevin explains the overwhelming emotion he felt throughout the race weekend in Phoenix. They also chat about the things that Kevin thought he would miss about being behind the wheel and some of the advice he received from fellow retirees. While he may be absent from the starting grid next year, Kevin will still be a prominent member of the sport both as a broadcaster, a racing dad, and a series owner. Dale and Kevin examine the transition from racer to commentator and what to look forward to in the Fox Sports booth next year. Kevin also highlights ways he hopes to impart knowledge to up-and-coming drivers through Kevin Harvick Inc. Management and being a car and series owner for the CARS Tour. Finally, Kevin touches on prepping his son Keelan for a long racing career to help continue the Harvick racing legacy, which has spanned the last 30 years. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. returns from NASCAR’s Championship weekend at Phoenix to join co-host Mike Davis for this year’s final edition of Dirty Air. After crowing three new NASCAR champions in races that ranged from chaotic to nerve-racking, the guys had a lot to discuss: What to do when the Airbnb doesn’t have everything you need Why was the Truck race so chaotic? JR Motorsports has a lot to be proud of this season Was the Phoenix Cup Championship race a good race?  Dale’s early season Ryan Blaney prediction pays off To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. returns from NASCAR’s Championship weekend at Phoenix to join co-host Mike Davis for this year’s final edition of Dirty Air. After crowing three new NASCAR champions in races that ranged from chaotic to nerve-racking, the guys had a lot to discuss: What to do when the Airbnb doesn’t have everything you need Why was the Truck race so chaotic? JR Motorsports has a lot to be proud of this season Was the Phoenix Cup Championship race a good race?  Dale’s early season Ryan Blaney prediction pays off To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

 On September 3, 2018, a rancher in Laredo, Texas, discovered a woman’s body shot execution-style on the side of the road. When investigators identified her as a local sex worker, their search for the killer took them into the darkest corners of the city. Then, after days of false starts and dead-ends, another body turned up, terrifying residents and leading law enforcement to conclude a serial killer is at large. More would die before a survivor finally came forward and identified the killer… but his motives proved as confounding as his crimes. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

 On September 3, 2018, a rancher in Laredo, Texas, discovered a woman’s body shot execution-style on the side of the road. When investigators identified her as a local sex worker, their search for the killer took them into the darkest corners of the city. Then, after days of false starts and dead-ends, another body turned up, terrifying residents and leading law enforcement to conclude a serial killer is at large. More would die before a survivor finally came forward and identified the killer… but his motives proved as confounding as his crimes. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. reconvenes with co-host Mike Davis to close out another week of the Dale Jr. Download. The guys reflect on their episode 506 interview with Jamie McMurray, which covered his transition from NASCAR Cup racer to Fox Sports commentator. They also size up the Championship Fours of both the Xfinity and Cup Series as the NASCAR contingent heads to Phoenix to close out the season.  During the Ask Jr. segment of the episode, listeners sent in questions regarding: Driver recovery after a grueling race Dale’s most memorable Halloween costume growing up Best first-date ideas Traveling tips To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. reconvenes with co-host Mike Davis to close out another week of the Dale Jr. Download. The guys reflect on their episode 506 interview with Jamie McMurray, which covered his transition from NASCAR Cup racer to Fox Sports commentator. They also size up the Championship Fours of both the Xfinity and Cup Series as the NASCAR contingent heads to Phoenix to close out the season. During the Ask Jr. segment of the episode, listeners sent in questions regarding: Driver recovery after a grueling race Dale’s most memorable Halloween costume growing up Best first-date ideas Traveling tips To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. is joined by longtime NASCAR Cup racer and fellow broadcaster Jamie McMurray on this episode of the Dale Jr. Download. After finding his way into the racing world through the go-kart ranks in his hometown of Joplin, Missouri, Jamie began garnering attention as he found success racing late models at local tracks like Lebanon I-44, Bolivar Speedway, and I-70 Motorsports Park. Jamie explains that one of the interested parties was longtime NASCAR Truck team owner Mike Mittler, and after pairing up with him in 1999 he began a meteoric rise up the NASCAR ladder.  Jamie speaks about the pressure he felt when he was called up to the Cup Series by Ganassi Racing to fill in for an injured Sterling Marlin in 2002. It was during this stint that Jamie made history by winning his first Cup event in just his second attempt, at the UAM-GM Quality 500 at Charlotte Motor Speedway, an upset victory that shocked the sport. Dale and Jamie compare notes on transitioning from race driver to commentator and what fulfillment they find in the broadcast booth. They also reflect on their time as full-time drivers and how stepping away from the grind can give a new perspective on the sport. DraftKings State-Specific Problem Gambling Information: In Massachusetts, call (800) 327-5050 or visit gamblinghelplinema.org, In New York, call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369). In Tennessee and Kansas, Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER. On behalf of Boot Hill Casino & Resort (KS). In West Virginia, Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit www.1800gambler.net. All games regulated by the West Virginia Lottery. Please play responsibly. In partnership with Hollywood Casino at Charles Town Races. In Connecticut, Help is available for problem gambling call 888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org. Licensee partner Golden Nugget Lake Charles (LA). 21+, age varies by jurisdiction. Void in Ontario. See DKNG.co/autoracing for eligibility, terms and responsible gaming resources. Bonus bets expire seven days after issuance. Eligibility and deposit restrictions apply To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. is joined by longtime NASCAR Cup racer and fellow broadcaster Jamie McMurray on this episode of the Dale Jr. Download. After finding his way into the racing world through the go-kart ranks in his hometown of Joplin, Missouri, Jamie began garnering attention as he found success racing late models at local tracks like Lebanon I-44, Bolivar Speedway, and I-70 Motorsports Park. Jamie explains that one of the interested parties was longtime NASCAR Truck team owner Mike Mittler, and after pairing up with him in 1999 he began a meteoric rise up the NASCAR ladder. Jamie speaks about the pressure he felt when he was called up to the Cup Series by Ganassi Racing to fill in for an injured Sterling Marlin in 2002. It was during this stint that Jamie made history by winning his first Cup event in just his second attempt, at the UAM-GM Quality 500 at Charlotte Motor Speedway, an upset victory that shocked the sport. Dale and Jamie compare notes on transitioning from race driver to commentator and what fulfillment they find in the broadcast booth. They also reflect on their time as full-time drivers and how stepping away from the grind can give a new perspective on the sport.DraftKings State-Specific Problem Gambling Information:In Massachusetts, call (800) 327-5050 or visit gamblinghelplinema.org, In New York, call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369). In Tennessee and Kansas, Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER. On behalf of Boot Hill Casino & Resort (KS). In West Virginia, Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit www.1800gambler.net. All games regulated by the West Virginia Lottery. Please play responsibly. In partnership with Hollywood Casino at Charles Town Races. In Connecticut, Help is available for problem gambling call 888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org. Licensee partner Golden Nugget Lake Charles (LA). 21+, age varies by jurisdiction. Void in Ontario. See DKNG.co/autoracing for eligibility, terms and responsible gaming resources. Bonus bets expire seven days after issuance. Eligibility and deposit restrictions apply To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. is back from the chaotic NASCAR weekend at Martinsville for another edition of Dirty Air. He joins co-host Mike Davis to break down all the action from the final races in the Round of 8: Bad teammates in must-win situations The fallout from the Sheldon Creed and Austin Hill incident Celebrating a win when the rest of the field crashed  Goodyear brought a great tire to Martinsville  Dale’s Championship pick is in the Final Four To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. is back from the chaotic NASCAR weekend at Martinsville for another edition of Dirty Air. He joins co-host Mike Davis to break down all the action from the final races in the Round of 8: Bad teammates in must-win situations The fallout from the Sheldon Creed and Austin Hill incident Celebrating a win when the rest of the field crashed  Goodyear brought a great tire to Martinsville  Dale’s Championship pick is in the Final Four DraftKings State-Specific Problem Gambling Information:In Massachusetts, call (800) 327-5050 or visit gamblinghelplinema.org, In New York, call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369). In Tennessee and Kansas, Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER. On behalf of Boot Hill Casino & Resort (KS). In West Virginia, Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit www.1800gambler.net. All games regulated by the West Virginia Lottery. Please play responsibly. In partnership with Hollywood Casino at Charles Town Races. In Connecticut, Help is available for problem gambling call 888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org. Licensee partner Golden Nugget Lake Charles (LA). 21+, age varies by jurisdiction. Void in Ontario. See DKNG.co/autoracing for eligibility, terms and responsible gaming resources. Bonus bets expire seven days after issuance. Eligibility and deposit restrictions apply To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. is back in the Bojangles Studio for a Wednesday edition of The Dale Jr. Download. Mike Davis joins Dale to discuss yesterday's conversation with Xfinity Series driver Austin Hill. Plus Dale and Mike share their opinions on NASCAR team branding and who's responsibility it is to build driver star power, the team or corporate America? When the Download crew took to YouTube Live for the Ask Jr. segment of the show, listeners sent in questions about: What Dale learned from running the Xfinity race at Homestead for the Cup broadcast What other celebrity or athlete Dale would like to interview before a race The wild events during the CARS Tour race at Tri-County NASCAR’s equivalent to Taylor Swift/Travis Kelce Silliest rumor Dale has heard about himself To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. is back in the Bojangles Studio for a Wednesday edition of The Dale Jr. Download. Mike Davis joins Dale to discuss yesterday's conversation with Xfinity Series driver Austin Hill. Plus Dale and Mike share their opinions on NASCAR team branding and who's responsibility it is to build driver star power, the team or corporate America?When the Download crew took to YouTube Live for the Ask Jr. segment of the show, listeners sent in questions about: What Dale learned from running the Xfinity race at Homestead for the Cup broadcast What other celebrity or athlete Dale would like to interview before a race The wild events during the CARS Tour race at Tri-County NASCAR’s equivalent to Taylor Swift/Travis Kelce Silliest rumor Dale has heard about himself To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. is joined by the driver of the Richard Childress number-21 Xfinity Series entry Austin Hill. Although Hill is locked in a fierce NASCAR Playoffs battle with JR Motorsports drivers Sam Mayer and Justin Allgaier, he and Dale set their competition aside for the day to better get to know one another. Austin explains that when he was a young boy he became enamored with NASCAR after his father began watching the sport. Taking inspiration from his childhood favorite driver Jeff Gordon, Austin proclaimed that he wanted to pursue racing, and at age six he entered the quarter midget driving ranks.  After spending his formative years working on his own cars and competing in family-prepared entries, Austin won his way through the K&N East Series and began seeking out opportunities in the NASCAR Trucks division. He recalls his first full-season ride came thanks to Young’s Motorsports, which brought about his first Series top-5 finish at Texas Motor Speedway in 2018. His impressive and consistent performances in the underfunded equipment impressed executives at Hattori Racing, and Austin locked up a multi-year deal driving not only the number-16 Truck entry but selective attempts in the Xfinity Series. After the deal fell apart due to funding issues, Austin disclosed how his current deal with Richard Childress Racing came together, where he continues to forge his path and establish himself as one of the premiere rising talents in NASCAR. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. is joined by the driver of the Richard Childress number-21 Xfinity Series entry Austin Hill. Although Hill is locked in a fierce NASCAR Playoffs battle with JR Motorsports drivers Sam Mayer and Justin Allgaier, he and Dale set their competition aside for the day to better get to know one another. Austin explains that when he was a young boy he became enamored with NASCAR after his father began watching the sport. Taking inspiration from his childhood favorite driver Jeff Gordon, Austin proclaimed that he wanted to pursue racing, and at age six he entered the quarter midget driving ranks. After spending his formative years working on his own cars and competing in family-prepared entries, Austin won his way through the K&N East Series and began seeking out opportunities in the NASCAR Trucks division. He recalls his first full-season ride came thanks to Young’s Motorsports, which brought about his first Series top-5 finish at Texas Motor Speedway in 2018. His impressive and consistent performances in the underfunded equipment impressed executives at Hattori Racing, and Austin locked up a multi-year deal driving not only the number-16 Truck entry but selective attempts in the Xfinity Series. After the deal fell apart due to funding issues, Austin disclosed how his current deal with Richard Childress Racing came together, where he continues to forge his path and establish himself as one of the premiere rising talents in NASCAR. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. is back after his top-5 finish in the NASCAR Xfinity Series race at Homestead for another episode of Dirty Air. After an up-and-down day at the race track, he and co-host Mike Davis had a lot to unpack: The short turnaround from practice to qualifying  What happened to cause the on-track incident with Josh Berry Behind the scenes of the pit road interview with PitBull Denny Hamlin and Martin Truex Jr. head to Martinsville below the cut-off line To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. is back after his top-5 finish in the NASCAR Xfinity Series race at Homestead for another episode of Dirty Air. After an up-and-down day at the race track, he and co-host Mike Davis had a lot to unpack: The short turnaround from practice to qualifying  What happened to cause the on-track incident with Josh Berry Behind the scenes of the pit road interview with PitBull Denny Hamlin and Martin Truex Jr. head to Martinsville below the cut-off line To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It’s time once again to close out the Download week as Dale Earnhardt Jr. is rejoined by special guest co-host Kelley Earnhardt Miller. They react to their Wednesday interview with Johnny Morris where they learned all about the origins of Bass Pro Shops and the many facets of the sporting goods empire. Dale also previews his return to the NASCAR Xfinity Series this weekend at Homestead, where he is looking forward to riding the high line in search of victory. Finally, no Thursday episode would be complete without the Flying Lap, where Dale reacts to clips from Actions Detrimental and Door Bumper Clear, and a report from the Short Track Insider. During the Ask Jr. portion of the episode, listeners wrote in questions regarding; Dale Earnhardt’s closest friend What kind of fish are in Dale Jr.’s aquarium? Go-to card games to play What’s the costume plan for this Halloween? Ideal sleeping temperature  To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It’s time once again to close out the Download week as Dale Earnhardt Jr. is rejoined by special guest co-host Kelley Earnhardt Miller. They react to their Wednesday interview with Johnny Morris where they learned all about the origins of Bass Pro Shops and the many facets of the sporting goods empire. Dale also previews his return to the NASCAR Xfinity Series this weekend at Homestead, where he is looking forward to riding the high line in search of victory. Finally, no Thursday episode would be complete without the Flying Lap, where Dale reacts to clips from Actions Detrimental and Door Bumper Clear, and a report from the Short Track Insider.During the Ask Jr. portion of the episode, listeners wrote in questions regarding; Dale Earnhardt’s closest friend What kind of fish are in Dale Jr.’s aquarium? Go-to card games to play What’s the costume plan for this Halloween? Ideal sleeping temperature  To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. and special co-host Kelley Earnhardt Miller are joined by Johnny Morris, the founder and CEO of longtime racing sponsor and sporting goods empire Bass Pro Shops. The interview illustrates how Johnny rose from humble beginnings in the Ozarks of Missouri to creating a brand that not only revolutionized the outdoors industry but the consumer experience as a whole. Johnny recalls the family legend of first selling fishing lures out of his father’s Brown Derby liquor store in Springfield. Soon after, he developed his first catalog which helped the business rapidly grow. He then realized he needed a destination store to help attract his customers to Missouri, and the first Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World was born. The interview also covers how Johnny became involved with NASCAR after first being exposed to auto racing at the Springfield Fairgrounds. A chance meeting with Richard Childress and Dale Earnhardt at Charlotte Motor Speedway led to a collaboration between Bass Pro Shops and Richard Childress Racing. The merchandise produced to support the deal generated millions of dollars in revenue, which was donated to conservation efforts. Johnny explains that conservation is a major pillar of the Bass Pro Shops brand, and how passing along the outdoors tradition to future generations is essential for the prosperity of nature. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. and special co-host Kelley Earnhardt Miller are joined by Johnny Morris, the founder and CEO of longtime racing sponsor and sporting goods empire Bass Pro Shops. The interview illustrates how Johnny rose from humble beginnings in the Ozarks of Missouri to creating a brand that not only revolutionized the outdoors industry but the consumer experience as a whole. Johnny recalls the family legend of first selling fishing lures out of his father’s Brown Derby liquor store in Springfield. Soon after, he developed his first catalog which helped the business rapidly grow. He then realized he needed a destination store to help attract his customers to Missouri, and the first Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World was born.The interview also covers how Johnny became involved with NASCAR after first being exposed to auto racing at the Springfield Fairgrounds. A chance meeting with Richard Childress and Dale Earnhardt at Charlotte Motor Speedway led to a collaboration between Bass Pro Shops and Richard Childress Racing. The merchandise produced to support the deal generated millions of dollars in revenue, which was donated to conservation efforts. Johnny explains that conservation is a major pillar of the Bass Pro Shops brand, and how passing along the outdoors tradition to future generations is essential for the prosperity of nature. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. makes his return to the Bojangles studio after a couple of weeks out of the office. He is joined by his sister Kelley Earnhardt Miller to chat about life and recap the exciting NASCAR weekend in Las Vegas: Gas or bad breath?  Touch Tunes hijacking  Dale’s recent trip to urgent care Kyle Larson is locked into the Final Four To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. makes his return to the Bojangles studio after a couple of weeks out of the office. He is joined by his sister Kelley Earnhardt Miller to chat about life and recap the exciting NASCAR weekend in Las Vegas: Gas or bad breath?  Touch Tunes hijacking  Dale’s recent trip to urgent care Kyle Larson is locked into the Final Four To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Kelley Earnhardt Miller sets out to learn the fundamentals of operating a race track as she sits down with Millbridge Speedway owner Ashly Burnett. She and co-host Mike Davis interview Ashly about her long family history in racing and how it led her to take over a speedway herself. Ashly explains that after growing up in the St. Louis area, her father Darrell forged a path in dirt modified racing that took her to many Midwest short tracks every weekend in her formative years. His pursuit to become an engine builder eventually led the family to North Carolina, and her brother Nick has since become an accomplished dirt racer in his own right.  Ashly and her husband Jeremy Burnett came to own Millbridge when its former owner decided to get out of the sport. She recalls the process of learning how to manage a speedway as they went along, from acquiring the necessary equipment like tractors and track graders to keeping events organized and on schedule. She also touches on how the track remained open during COVID and actually experienced a boom in popularity that it continues to thrive from. Finally, the interview discusses how Millbridge has played home to not only NASCAR Cup stars, but their children, and how the speedway could very well be a training ground for the next generation of racing superstars. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Kelley Earnhardt Miller sets out to learn the fundamentals of operating a race track as she sits down with Millbridge Speedway owner Ashly Burnett. She and co-host Mike Davis interview Ashly about her long family history in racing and how it led her to take over a speedway herself. Ashly explains that after growing up in the St. Louis area, her father Darrell forged a path in dirt modified racing that took her to many Midwest short tracks every weekend in her formative years. His pursuit to become an engine builder eventually led the family to North Carolina, and her brother Nick has since become an accomplished dirt racer in his own right. Ashly and her husband Jeremy Burnett came to own Millbridge when its former owner decided to get out of the sport. She recalls the process of learning how to manage a speedway as they went along, from acquiring the necessary equipment like tractors and track graders to keeping events organized and on schedule. She also touches on how the track remained open during COVID and actually experienced a boom in popularity that it continues to thrive from. Finally, the interview discusses how Millbridge has played home to not only NASCAR Cup stars, but their children, and how the speedway could very well be a training ground for the next generation of racing superstars. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On today's episode, Dale Earnhardt Jr. is out of town this week celebrating his birthday, but no worries, Mike Davis is in the Bojangles Studio steering the ship. He is joined by the Dirty Mo Live crew and the boys recap the past weekend's race at the Charlotte Motor Speedway ROVAL, Jeff Gordon's recent comments about drivers being outspoken, and Mike gives out some gifts to lucky fans in the JRM gift shop! Plus we've got Andrew Kurland's Man on the Street to close out the show! To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On today's episode, Dale Earnhardt Jr. is out of town this week celebrating his birthday, but no worries, Mike Davis is in the Bojangles Studio steering the ship. He is joined by the Dirty Mo Live crew and the boys recap the past weekend's race at the Charlotte Motor Speedway ROVAL, Jeff Gordon's recent comments about drivers being outspoken, and Mike gives out some gifts to lucky fans in the JRM gift shop! Plus we've got Andrew Kurland's Man on the Street to close out the show! To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Class is back in session as Kelley Earnhardt Miller returns for another episode of the Business of Motorsports. On this edition, she and co-host Mike Davis sit down with Josh Jones, the Vice President of Sports Marketing and Entertainment at Kevin Harvick Inc. Management. The main topics of discussion on the docket are driver representation, how to attain sponsors and what goes into contract negotiation. Josh explains how KHI transitioned from being a race team to a sports management firm, all stemming from a conversation had with UFC fighter Cowboy Cerrone. Since then, KHI has gone on to manage several race drivers, professional fighters, and PGA golfers. The interview also highlights Kevin’s ability to keep sponsors for long periods of his career, and what kind of work happens behind the scenes to keep all parties happy. Josh emphasizes the importance of media training in young drivers and how it’s not enough to just be a winner in today’s racing industry. Social media and branding for athletes are also covered, and how active content creation goes far for building a person’s brand. Finally, they dive deep into the make-up of today’s standard driver contracts and how much of negotiations rely upon sponsorship and bonus programs To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Class is back in session as Kelley Earnhardt Miller returns for another episode of the Business of Motorsports. On this edition, she and co-host Mike Davis sit down with Josh Jones, the Vice President of Sports Marketing and Entertainment at Kevin Harvick Inc. Management. The main topics of discussion on the docket are driver representation, how to attain sponsors and what goes into contract negotiation. Josh explains how KHI transitioned from being a race team to a sports management firm, all stemming from a conversation had with UFC fighter Cowboy Cerrone. Since then, KHI has gone on to manage several race drivers, professional fighters, and PGA golfers.The interview also highlights Kevin’s ability to keep sponsors for long periods of his career, and what kind of work happens behind the scenes to keep all parties happy. Josh emphasizes the importance of media training in young drivers and how it’s not enough to just be a winner in today’s racing industry. Social media and branding for athletes are also covered, and how active content creation goes far for building a person’s brand. Finally, they dive deep into the make-up of today’s standard driver contracts and how much of negotiations rely upon sponsorship and bonus programs To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this episode of The Dale Jr. Download, we're live from high in the sky as Dale Earnhardt Jr. and Mike Davis are joined by LW Miller and Wyatt Miller to recap their experience from Lernerville Speedway at the High Limit Sprint Car Series race. From losing money on the tarmac to a surprise gift for Amy to riding in the push truck, Dale Jr., Mike, LW, and Wyatt had quite the night on dirt. Plus we hear from Hannah Newhouse with Short Track Insider, and the Dirty Mo Dough crew has your 5 bets to watch this weekend at Talladega. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this episode of The Dale Jr. Download, we're live from high in the sky as Dale Earnhardt Jr. and Mike Davis are joined by LW Miller and Wyatt Miller to recap their experience from Lernerville Speedway at the High Limit Sprint Car Series race. From losing money on the tarmac to a surprise gift for Amy to riding in the push truck, Dale Jr., Mike, LW, and Wyatt had quite the night on dirt. Plus we hear from Hannah Newhouse with Short Track Insider, and the Dirty Mo Dough crew has your 5 bets to watch this weekend at Talladega. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr., Mike Davis, and the Dirty Mo Media crew went to Lernerville Speedway Tuesday Night to see Kyle Larson and Brad Sweet's High Limit Sprint Car Series LIVE in action. Prior to the night festivities, Dale Jr. and Mike are joined by Kyle and Brad on stage in front of the front stretch grandstands for a live taping of The Dale Jr. Download. In this episode the guys talk to Kyle and Brad about how the series came together, the challenges of running a high-profile series, plus the future of the series. DraftKings State-Specific Problem Gambling Information: In Massachusetts, call (800) 327-5050 or visit gamblinghelplinema.org, In New York, call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369). In Tennessee and Kansas, Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER. On behalf of Boot Hill Casino & Resort (KS). In West Virginia, Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit www.1800gambler.net. All games regulated by the West Virginia Lottery. Please play responsibly. In partnership with Hollywood Casino at Charles Town Races. In Connecticut, Help is available for problem gambling call 888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org. Licensee partner Golden Nugget Lake Charles (LA). 21+, age varies by jurisdiction. Void in Ontario. See DKNG.co/autoracing for eligibility, terms and responsible gaming resources. Bonus bets expire seven days after issuance. Eligibility and deposit restrictions apply.  To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr., Mike Davis, and the Dirty Mo Media crew went to Lernerville Speedway Tuesday Night to see Kyle Larson and Brad Sweet's High Limit Sprint Car Series LIVE in action. Prior to the night festivities, Dale Jr. and Mike are joined by Kyle and Brad on stage in front of the front stretch grandstands for a live taping of The Dale Jr. Download. In this episode the guys talk to Kyle and Brad about how the series came together, the challenges of running a high-profile series, plus the future of the series.DraftKings State-Specific Problem Gambling Information:In Massachusetts, call (800) 327-5050 or visit gamblinghelplinema.org, In New York, call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369). In Tennessee and Kansas, Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER. On behalf of Boot Hill Casino & Resort (KS). In West Virginia, Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit www.1800gambler.net. All games regulated by the West Virginia Lottery. Please play responsibly. In partnership with Hollywood Casino at Charles Town Races. In Connecticut, Help is available for problem gambling call 888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org. Licensee partner Golden Nugget Lake Charles (LA). 21+, age varies by jurisdiction. Void in Ontario. See DKNG.co/autoracing for eligibility, terms and responsible gaming resources. Bonus bets expire seven days after issuance. Eligibility and deposit restrictions apply.  To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. survived the hot Texas heat and returned to the Bojangles Studio for another episode of Dirty Air. He joins co-host Mike Davis to join in on this week’s discourse surrounding the Lonestar speedway and more: Isla was upset that Dale didn’t win Bristol What Cup driver milestones are really worth mentioning? Dale’s trip to the Big Apple Texas Motor Speedway is heading in the right direction There are storylines galore in the Cup Series this year During the Ask Jr. portion of the episode, listeners sent in questions about: Cheating at Battleship The skeleton racing gloves Who was more competitive in racing, Kelley or Dale? Does Dale play golf? Free beer or free tacos? Favorite pizza toppings To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. survived the hot Texas heat and returned to the Bojangles Studio for another episode of Dirty Air. He joins co-host Mike Davis to join in on this week’s discourse surrounding the Lonestar speedway and more: Isla was upset that Dale didn’t win Bristol What Cup driver milestones are really worth mentioning? Dale’s trip to the Big Apple Texas Motor Speedway is heading in the right direction There are storylines galore in the Cup Series this year During the Ask Jr. portion of the episode, listeners sent in questions about: Cheating at Battleship The skeleton racing gloves Who was more competitive in racing, Kelley or Dale? Does Dale play golf? Free beer or free tacos? Favorite pizza toppings To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. reconvenes with his co-host Mike Davis to bring a close to an action-packed Dale Jr. Download week. The guys rehash their favorite moments from Wednesday’s interview with NASCAR Cup driver Justin Haley. Mike surprises Dale Jr. by bringing in the CEO of Lionel Howard Hitchcock to give a much-anticipated update on the new late-model stock diecast tool. Also the return of the Man On The Street. During the Ask Jr. segment of the episode, listeners sent in questions regarding: Commercial break chatter amongst the NBC Broadcasting team Dale’s recent profile picture change Attending a high school reunion Dale’s favorite board games DraftKings State-Specific Problem Gambling Information: In Massachusetts, call (800) 327-5050 or visit gamblinghelplinema.org, In New York, call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369). In Tennessee and Kansas, Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER. On behalf of Boot Hill Casino & Resort (KS). In West Virginia, Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit www.1800gambler.net. All games regulated by the West Virginia Lottery. Please play responsibly. In partnership with Hollywood Casino at Charles Town Races. In Connecticut, Help is available for problem gambling call 888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org. Licensee partner Golden Nugget Lake Charles (LA). 21+, age varies by jurisdiction. Void in Ontario. See DKNG.co/autoracing for eligibility, terms and responsible gaming resources. Bonus bets expire seven days after issuance. Eligibility and deposit restrictions apply.  To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. reconvenes with his co-host Mike Davis to bring a close to an action-packed Dale Jr. Download week. The guys rehash their favorite moments from Wednesday’s interview with NASCAR Cup driver Justin Haley. Mike surprises Dale Jr. by bringing in the CEO of Lionel Howard Hitchcock to give a much-anticipated update on the new late-model stock diecast tool. Also the return of the Man On The Street.During the Ask Jr. segment of the episode, listeners sent in questions regarding: Commercial break chatter amongst the NBC Broadcasting team Dale’s recent profile picture change Attending a high school reunion Dale’s favorite board games DraftKings State-Specific Problem Gambling Information:In Massachusetts, call (800) 327-5050 or visit gamblinghelplinema.org, In New York, call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369). In Tennessee and Kansas, Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER. On behalf of Boot Hill Casino & Resort (KS). In West Virginia, Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit www.1800gambler.net. All games regulated by the West Virginia Lottery. Please play responsibly. In partnership with Hollywood Casino at Charles Town Races. In Connecticut, Help is available for problem gambling call 888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org. Licensee partner Golden Nugget Lake Charles (LA). 21+, age varies by jurisdiction. Void in Ontario. See DKNG.co/autoracing for eligibility, terms and responsible gaming resources. Bonus bets expire seven days after issuance. Eligibility and deposit restrictions apply.  To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. is joined on the Download this week by Kaulig Racing Cup driver Justin Haley. Back in July, Justin helped kick off the NASCAR silly season by announcing he was leaving his longtime home at Kaulig for Rick Ware Racing in 2024. Dale, co-host Mike Davis, and Justin discuss the move and the reasoning behind it. Justin explains that ultimately he wanted to bet on himself and believed in Ware’s determined approach to auto racing. Also, they analyze the back half of the Cup field and the huge gains teams like RWR and Front Row Motorsports have made with the NextGen Cup car. Justin fills listeners in on his journey through the world of motorsports, which began at the age of nine in the quarter midget class in Central Indiana. His Uncles Todd and Drew, who were both motorsports fanatics with ties to the industry, helped Justin embark on an ambitious path up the racing ladder. His climb up through the ranks saw him spend time in street stocks, late models, and Trans Am road racing. His 2016 K&N East Championship helped open the door to the upper echelon of NASCAR, becoming just the 32nd driver in history to have won races in the Trucks, Xfinity, and Cup Series. DraftKings State-Specific Problem Gambling Information: In Massachusetts, call (800) 327-5050 or visit gamblinghelplinema.org, In New York, call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369). In Tennessee and Kansas, Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER. On behalf of Boot Hill Casino & Resort (KS). In West Virginia, Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit www.1800gambler.net. All games regulated by the West Virginia Lottery. Please play responsibly. In partnership with Hollywood Casino at Charles Town Races. In Connecticut, Help is available for problem gambling call 888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org. Licensee partner Golden Nugget Lake Charles (LA). 21+, age varies by jurisdiction. Void in Ontario. See DKNG.co/autoracing for eligibility, terms and responsible gaming resources. Bonus bets expire seven days after issuance. Eligibility and deposit restrictions apply.  To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. is joined on the Download this week by Kaulig Racing Cup driver Justin Haley. Back in July, Justin helped kick off the NASCAR silly season by announcing he was leaving his longtime home at Kaulig for Rick Ware Racing in 2024. Dale, co-host Mike Davis, and Justin discuss the move and the reasoning behind it. Justin explains that ultimately he wanted to bet on himself and believed in Ware’s determined approach to auto racing. Also, they analyze the back half of the Cup field and the huge gains teams like RWR and Front Row Motorsports have made with the NextGen Cup car.Justin fills listeners in on his journey through the world of motorsports, which began at the age of nine in the quarter midget class in Central Indiana. His Uncles Todd and Drew, who were both motorsports fanatics with ties to the industry, helped Justin embark on an ambitious path up the racing ladder. His climb up through the ranks saw him spend time in street stocks, late models, and Trans Am road racing. His 2016 K&N East Championship helped open the door to the upper echelon of NASCAR, becoming just the 32nd driver in history to have won races in the Trucks, Xfinity, and Cup Series.DraftKings State-Specific Problem Gambling Information:In Massachusetts, call (800) 327-5050 or visit gamblinghelplinema.org, In New York, call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369). In Tennessee and Kansas, Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER. On behalf of Boot Hill Casino & Resort (KS). In West Virginia, Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit www.1800gambler.net. All games regulated by the West Virginia Lottery. Please play responsibly. In partnership with Hollywood Casino at Charles Town Races. In Connecticut, Help is available for problem gambling call 888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org. Licensee partner Golden Nugget Lake Charles (LA). 21+, age varies by jurisdiction. Void in Ontario. See DKNG.co/autoracing for eligibility, terms and responsible gaming resources. Bonus bets expire seven days after issuance. Eligibility and deposit restrictions apply.  To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. is back in the studio after a captivating performance in the NASCAR Xfinity Series race at Bristol. He and co-host Mike Davis take a deep dive into his highly anticipated return to Thunder Valley: The pre-qualifying jitters  Changing your mindset to deal with anxiety Dealing with the prospect of not qualifying for the race Outperforming expectations and leading some laps Realizing his car was on fire and what caused it To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. is back in the studio after a captivating performance in the NASCAR Xfinity Series race at Bristol. He and co-host Mike Davis take a deep dive into his highly anticipated return to Thunder Valley: The pre-qualifying jitters  Changing your mindset to deal with anxiety Dealing with the prospect of not qualifying for the race Outperforming expectations and leading some laps Realizing his car was on fire and what caused it DraftKings State-Specific Problem Gambling Information:In Massachusetts, call (800) 327-5050 or visit gamblinghelplinema.org, In New York, call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369). In Tennessee and Kansas, Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER. On behalf of Boot Hill Casino & Resort (KS). In West Virginia, Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit www.1800gambler.net. All games regulated by the West Virginia Lottery. Please play responsibly. In partnership with Hollywood Casino at Charles Town Races. In Connecticut, Help is available for problem gambling call 888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org. Licensee partner Golden Nugget Lake Charles (LA). 21+, age varies by jurisdiction. Void in Ontario. See DKNG.co/autoracing for eligibility, terms and responsible gaming resources. Bonus bets expire seven days after issuance. Eligibility and deposit restrictions apply.  To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. reconvenes with co-host Mike Davis to close out another week of the Dale Jr. Download. The guys discuss the results of Dale’s “management by strength” report and what it says about his personality. They also react to their incredible Wednesday interview with bass fishing legend and longtime friend of the Earnhardt family, Hank Parker Sr. Dale had several key takeaways from the chat with Hank that was enlightening and made him reflect differently on his relationship with his father. After that, Dale and Mike chat about the return of stage breaks at the ROVAL, Ty Majeski’s penalty, and Zane Smith’s future. During the Ask Jr. segment of the episode, listeners asked questions regarding: Dale’s recent trip to the antique store Choosing a different career path The emotions behind winning the first NASCAR race back after the 9/11 tragedy DraftKings State-Specific Problem Gambling Information: In Massachusetts, call (800) 327-5050 or visit gamblinghelplinema.org, In New York, call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369). In Tennessee and Kansas, Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER. On behalf of Boot Hill Casino & Resort (KS). In West Virginia, Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit www.1800gambler.net. All games regulated by the West Virginia Lottery. Please play responsibly. In partnership with Hollywood Casino at Charles Town Races. In Connecticut, Help is available for problem gambling call 888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org. Licensee partner Golden Nugget Lake Charles (LA). 21+, age varies by jurisdiction. Void in Ontario. See DKNG.co/autoracing for eligibility, terms and responsible gaming resources. Bonus bets expire seven days after issuance. Eligibility and deposit restrictions apply.  To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. reconvenes with co-host Mike Davis to close out another week of the Dale Jr. Download. The guys discuss the results of Dale’s “management by strength” report and what it says about his personality. They also react to their incredible Wednesday interview with bass fishing legend and longtime friend of the Earnhardt family, Hank Parker Sr. Dale had several key takeaways from the chat with Hank that was enlightening and made him reflect differently on his relationship with his father. After that, Dale and Mike chat about the return of stage breaks at the ROVAL, Ty Majeski’s penalty, and Zane Smith’s future.During the Ask Jr. segment of the episode, listeners asked questions regarding: Dale’s recent trip to the antique store Choosing a different career path The emotions behind winning the first NASCAR race back after the 9/11 tragedy DraftKings State-Specific Problem Gambling Information:In Massachusetts, call (800) 327-5050 or visit gamblinghelplinema.org, In New York, call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369). In Tennessee and Kansas, Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER. On behalf of Boot Hill Casino & Resort (KS). In West Virginia, Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit www.1800gambler.net. All games regulated by the West Virginia Lottery. Please play responsibly. In partnership with Hollywood Casino at Charles Town Races. In Connecticut, Help is available for problem gambling call 888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org. Licensee partner Golden Nugget Lake Charles (LA). 21+, age varies by jurisdiction. Void in Ontario. See DKNG.co/autoracing for eligibility, terms and responsible gaming resources. Bonus bets expire seven days after issuance. Eligibility and deposit restrictions apply.  To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In a conversation that gave us some intensely emotional moments along with plenty of laughs, Dale Earnhardt Jr. is joined by a great friend of his dad’s - bass fishing legend Hank Parker Sr. Hank Parker and Dale Earnhardt were close friends who met even before they rose to the top of their respective fields. As they both experienced early career triumphs, with Hank winning the BassMaster Classic in 1979 and Dale winning the NASCAR Cup Championship in 1980, they began fishing and hunting together, forging a close bond that would carry through Dale’s passing in 2001. This interview covers everything from why Hank Sr. traded his fishing pole in for a stock car, his journey from working at a marina to becoming one of the most recognized outdoorsmen in history, and the time he spent in the wild with the Earnhardts, with the hilarious and poignant stories to prove it.  You may remember the racing endeavors of Hank’s son Hank Jr., who spent time in the All-Pro Series before moving up to the NASCAR Busch Series and eventually winning two races. But the racing bug and need for speed first resonated in Hank, and the story of how he bought a Busch Series car from Dale and attempted to qualify at Rockingham is one you won’t want to miss. Hank also fills Dale Jr. in on why Hank may be responsible for convincing Dale Earnhardt to buy Dale Jr.’s first late model, and then relays some deeply intimate conversations he had with Dale during their hunting trips over the years, showing a side of the Intimidator you’ve never seen before. DraftKings State-Specific Problem Gambling Information: In Massachusetts, call (800) 327-5050 or visit gamblinghelplinema.org, In New York, call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369). In Tennessee and Kansas, Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER. On behalf of Boot Hill Casino & Resort (KS). In West Virginia, Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit www.1800gambler.net. All games regulated by the West Virginia Lottery. Please play responsibly. In partnership with Hollywood Casino at Charles Town Races. In Connecticut, Help is available for problem gambling call 888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org. Licensee partner Golden Nugget Lake Charles (LA). 21+, age varies by jurisdiction. Void in Ontario. See DKNG.co/autoracing for eligibility, terms and responsible gaming resources. Bonus bets expire seven days after issuance. Eligibility and deposit restrictions apply.  To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In a conversation that gave us some intensely emotional moments along with plenty of laughs, Dale Earnhardt Jr. is joined by a great friend of his dad’s - bass fishing legend Hank Parker Sr. Hank Parker and Dale Earnhardt were close friends who met even before they rose to the top of their respective fields. As they both experienced early career triumphs, with Hank winning the BassMaster Classic in 1979 and Dale winning the NASCAR Cup Championship in 1980, they began fishing and hunting together, forging a close bond that would carry through Dale’s passing in 2001.This interview covers everything from why Hank Sr. traded his fishing pole in for a stock car, his journey from working at a marina to becoming one of the most recognized outdoorsmen in history, and the time he spent in the wild with the Earnhardts, with the hilarious and poignant stories to prove it. You may remember the racing endeavors of Hank’s son Hank Jr., who spent time in the All-Pro Series before moving up to the NASCAR Busch Series and eventually winning two races. But the racing bug and need for speed first resonated in Hank, and the story of how he bought a Busch Series car from Dale and attempted to qualify at Rockingham is one you won’t want to miss. Hank also fills Dale Jr. in on why Hank may be responsible for convincing Dale Earnhardt to buy Dale Jr.’s first late model, and then relays some deeply intimate conversations he had with Dale during their hunting trips over the years, showing a side of the Intimidator you’ve never seen before.DraftKings State-Specific Problem Gambling Information:In Massachusetts, call (800) 327-5050 or visit gamblinghelplinema.org, In New York, call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369). In Tennessee and Kansas, Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER. On behalf of Boot Hill Casino & Resort (KS). In West Virginia, Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit www.1800gambler.net. All games regulated by the West Virginia Lottery. Please play responsibly. In partnership with Hollywood Casino at Charles Town Races. In Connecticut, Help is available for problem gambling call 888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org. Licensee partner Golden Nugget Lake Charles (LA). 21+, age varies by jurisdiction. Void in Ontario. See DKNG.co/autoracing for eligibility, terms and responsible gaming resources. Bonus bets expire seven days after issuance. Eligibility and deposit restrictions apply.  To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. is back from the NASCAR on NBC broadcasting booth in Kansas for a new episode of Dirty Air. While the NASCAR Cup Playoffs are fully underway, Dale and co-host Mike Davis had more than racing to discuss this week: A surprise gift from WWE The evolution of consuming music Mike won’t share his Spotify playlists, so don’t ask A small blunder during the Xfinity race broadcast Chase Elliott’s reaction to making contact with Kyle Larson DraftKings State-Specific Problem Gambling Information: In Massachusetts, call (800) 327-5050 or visit gamblinghelplinema.org, In New York, call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369). In Tennessee and Kansas, Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER. On behalf of Boot Hill Casino & Resort (KS). In West Virginia, Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit www.1800gambler.net. All games regulated by the West Virginia Lottery. Please play responsibly. In partnership with Hollywood Casino at Charles Town Races. In Connecticut, Help is available for problem gambling call 888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org. Licensee partner Golden Nugget Lake Charles (LA). 21+, age varies by jurisdiction. Void in Ontario. See DKNG.co/autoracing for eligibility, terms and responsible gaming resources. Bonus bets expire seven days after issuance. Eligibility and deposit restrictions apply. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. is back from the NASCAR on NBC broadcasting booth in Kansas for a new episode of Dirty Air. While the NASCAR Cup Playoffs are fully underway, Dale and co-host Mike Davis had more than racing to discuss this week: A surprise gift from WWE The evolution of consuming music Mike won’t share his Spotify playlists, so don’t ask A small blunder during the Xfinity race broadcast Chase Elliott’s reaction to making contact with Kyle Larson DraftKings State-Specific Problem Gambling Information:In Massachusetts, call (800) 327-5050 or visit gamblinghelplinema.org, In New York, call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369). In Tennessee and Kansas, Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER. On behalf of Boot Hill Casino & Resort (KS). In West Virginia, Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit www.1800gambler.net. All games regulated by the West Virginia Lottery. Please play responsibly. In partnership with Hollywood Casino at Charles Town Races. In Connecticut, Help is available for problem gambling call 888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org. Licensee partner Golden Nugget Lake Charles (LA). 21+, age varies by jurisdiction. Void in Ontario. See DKNG.co/autoracing for eligibility, terms and responsible gaming resources. Bonus bets expire seven days after issuance. Eligibility and deposit restrictions apply. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis reconvened in the Bojangles Studio to close out the Download week. In light of the comments on a video clip from Tuesday’s debate over the Bowman/Suarez Darlington incident, Dale once again tries to make his point clear to listeners. This leads to a debate between Dale and Mike over the concept of “reading the comments” and Dirty Mo Media’s mission statement in making content. After Wednesday’s incredible interview with WWE superstar Cody Rhodes, Dale is excited at the prospect of getting back into professional wrestling. There are also some NASCAR silly season developments, big opportunities for JRM late model ace Carson Kvapil, and another round of Immaculate Grid. During the Ask Jr. segment of the episode, listeners wanted to know about: Having a different pit crew for the Playoffs What a loose wheel feels like during a race What Dale thought of his first magazine cover shoot Race day superstitions DraftKings State-Specific Problem Gambling Information: In Massachusetts, call (800) 327-5050 or visit gamblinghelplinema.org, In New York, call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369). In Tennessee and Kansas, Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER. On behalf of Boot Hill Casino & Resort (KS). In West Virginia, Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit www.1800gambler.net. All games regulated by the West Virginia Lottery. Please play responsibly. In partnership with Hollywood Casino at Charles Town Races. In Connecticut, Help is available for problem gambling call 888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis reconvened in the Bojangles Studio to close out the Download week. In light of the comments on a video clip from Tuesday’s debate over the Bowman/Suarez Darlington incident, Dale once again tries to make his point clear to listeners. This leads to a debate between Dale and Mike over the concept of “reading the comments” and Dirty Mo Media’s mission statement in making content. After Wednesday’s incredible interview with WWE superstar Cody Rhodes, Dale is excited at the prospect of getting back into professional wrestling. There are also some NASCAR silly season developments, big opportunities for JRM late model ace Carson Kvapil, and another round of Immaculate Grid.During the Ask Jr. segment of the episode, listeners wanted to know about: Having a different pit crew for the Playoffs What a loose wheel feels like during a race What Dale thought of his first magazine cover shoot Race day superstitions DraftKings State-Specific Problem Gambling Information:In Massachusetts, call (800) 327-5050 or visit gamblinghelplinema.org, In New York, call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369). In Tennessee and Kansas, Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER. On behalf of Boot Hill Casino & Resort (KS). In West Virginia, Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit www.1800gambler.net. All games regulated by the West Virginia Lottery. Please play responsibly. In partnership with Hollywood Casino at Charles Town Races. In Connecticut, Help is available for problem gambling call 888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Denny Hamlin gets the Lawn Chair Award for Darlington. Kansas doesn't look like a tough racetrack but crazy things always happen. Predictor model is big Truex Jr, Hamlin, Byron and Larson. What to expect from Chastain. Is Carson Hocevar a sleeper for a top-10 pick? Kansas isn't a great track for Ty Gibbs. Should you look at making top-5 bets? The Professor's updated matchup tool was a success, so the guys are big on those bets. What's The Bet. And, a quick look at college and NFL bets DraftKings State-Specific Problem Gambling Information: In Massachusetts, call (800) 327-5050 or visit gamblinghelplinema.org, In New York, call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369). In Tennessee and Kansas, Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER. On behalf of Boot Hill Casino & Resort (KS). In West Virginia, Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit www.1800gambler.net. All games regulated by the West Virginia Lottery. Please play responsibly. In partnership with Hollywood Casino at Charles Town Races. In Connecticut, Help is available for problem gambling call 888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Denny Hamlin gets the Lawn Chair Award for Darlington. Kansas doesn't look like a tough racetrack but crazy things always happen. Predictor model is big Truex Jr, Hamlin, Byron and Larson. What to expect from Chastain. Is Carson Hocevar a sleeper for a top-10 pick? Kansas isn't a great track for Ty Gibbs. Should you look at making top-5 bets? The Professor's updated matchup tool was a success, so the guys are big on those bets. What's The Bet. And, a quick look at college and NFL betsDraftKings State-Specific Problem Gambling Information:In Massachusetts, call (800) 327-5050 or visit gamblinghelplinema.org, In New York, call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369). In Tennessee and Kansas, Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER. On behalf of Boot Hill Casino & Resort (KS). In West Virginia, Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit www.1800gambler.net. All games regulated by the West Virginia Lottery. Please play responsibly. In partnership with Hollywood Casino at Charles Town Races. In Connecticut, Help is available for problem gambling call 888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. and Cody Rhodes may seem worlds apart on the surface, but their paths through life hold many similarities. On this episode of the Dale Jr. Download, the American Nightmare himself joins Dale Jr. and co-host Mike Davis to discuss their likeness: growing up in the shadow of a generational figure. Dale Jr. shares that while growing up, he used to watch Cody’s father, the iconic Dusty Rhodes, on Saturday morning matinee presentations of NWA Wrestling on television. Meanwhile, Cody recalled the experience of discovering his father’s legacy at an early age, and how over time he developed the inclination to follow in his footsteps. They chat about the internal conflict of being immensely proud of their fathers while wanting to forge a path of their own.  The conversation unpacks Cody’s stellar amateur wrestling career in high school, a sport he originally pursued to prove the legitimacy of his father’s career as a professional. They also discuss him taking on a position at WWE at an early age, and the idea that perhaps he was moved up from the developmental ranks too quickly simply because he was Dusty’s son. Cody speaks on playing the role of Stardust and how the rigidness of the WWE writers at the time led to him burning his bridges and returning to the independent circuit to reinvent himself. He also dives into his catastrophic pectoral injury and how he wrestled through it, only to return to glory on the Wrestlemania stage. DraftKings State-Specific Problem Gambling Information: In Massachusetts, call (800) 327-5050 or visit gamblinghelplinema.org, In New York, call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369). In Tennessee and Kansas, Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER. On behalf of Boot Hill Casino & Resort (KS). In West Virginia, Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit www.1800gambler.net. All games regulated by the West Virginia Lottery. Please play responsibly. In partnership with Hollywood Casino at Charles Town Races. In Connecticut, Help is available for problem gambling call 888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. and Cody Rhodes may seem worlds apart on the surface, but their paths through life hold many similarities. On this episode of the Dale Jr. Download, the American Nightmare himself joins Dale Jr. and co-host Mike Davis to discuss their likeness: growing up in the shadow of a generational figure. Dale Jr. shares that while growing up, he used to watch Cody’s father, the iconic Dusty Rhodes, on Saturday morning matinee presentations of NWA Wrestling on television. Meanwhile, Cody recalled the experience of discovering his father’s legacy at an early age, and how over time he developed the inclination to follow in his footsteps. They chat about the internal conflict of being immensely proud of their fathers while wanting to forge a path of their own. The conversation unpacks Cody’s stellar amateur wrestling career in high school, a sport he originally pursued to prove the legitimacy of his father’s career as a professional. They also discuss him taking on a position at WWE at an early age, and the idea that perhaps he was moved up from the developmental ranks too quickly simply because he was Dusty’s son. Cody speaks on playing the role of Stardust and how the rigidness of the WWE writers at the time led to him burning his bridges and returning to the independent circuit to reinvent himself. He also dives into his catastrophic pectoral injury and how he wrestled through it, only to return to glory on the Wrestlemania stage.DraftKings State-Specific Problem Gambling Information:In Massachusetts, call (800) 327-5050 or visit gamblinghelplinema.org, In New York, call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369). In Tennessee and Kansas, Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER. On behalf of Boot Hill Casino & Resort (KS). In West Virginia, Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit www.1800gambler.net. All games regulated by the West Virginia Lottery. Please play responsibly. In partnership with Hollywood Casino at Charles Town Races. In Connecticut, Help is available for problem gambling call 888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. is back from the opening round of the NASCAR Playoffs to join co-host Mike Davis for some Dirty Air. As usual, the Lady in Black pushed drivers to the limits, and the NASCAR post-season started off on a dramatic note: Dale’s surprise race at Florence Speedway Sam Mayer’s run-in with Parker Kligerman Writing script vs. talking naturally Kevin Harvick’s costly pit penalty Alex Bowman and Daniel Suarez’s big crash To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. is back from the opening round of the NASCAR Playoffs to join co-host Mike Davis for some Dirty Air. As usual, the Lady in Black pushed drivers to the limits, and the NASCAR post-season started off on a dramatic note: Dale’s surprise race at Florence Speedway Sam Mayer’s run-in with Parker Kligerman Writing script vs. talking naturally Kevin Harvick’s costly pit penalty Alex Bowman and Daniel Suarez’s big crash DraftKings State-Specific Problem Gambling Information:In Massachusetts, call (800) 327-5050 or visit gamblinghelplinema.org, In New York, call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369). In Tennessee and Kansas, Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER. On behalf of Boot Hill Casino & Resort (KS). In West Virginia, Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit www.1800gambler.net. All games regulated by the West Virginia Lottery. Please play responsibly. In partnership with Hollywood Casino at Charles Town Races. In Connecticut, Help is available for problem gambling call 888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The dust has settled on the greatest NASCAR Cup season in history, and it’s time to recap all that we’ve learned about 1979. Dale Earnhardt Jr. invites some of the guests from BECOMING EARNHARDT for a roundtable discussion to recount all that we’ve learned and conclude some of our favorite character’s stories. Dale’s aunts Cathy Watkins and Kaye Snipes as well as Osterlund Racing crew member Doug Richert return as first-hand character witnesses who helped bring the story of 1979 to life. The chat once again sets the dial back to the beginning of 1979 and views Dale Earnhardt through the eyes of his family, as he’s getting ready to embark on the biggest opportunity in his young racing career. It also dissects complicated characters like Jake Elder and the team dynamic at Osterlund Racing. They dive into the significance of the NASCAR Cup Rookie of the Year in 1979 and just how close things got in the race between Dale and Joe Millikan. Finally, some new details are revealed about the severity of Dale’s injury at Pocono and his lengthy hospital stay and time out of the driver’s seat DraftKings State-Specific Problem Gambling Information: In Massachusetts, call (800) 327-5050 or visit gamblinghelplinema.org, In New York, call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369). In Tennessee and Kansas, Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER. On behalf of Boot Hill Casino & Resort (KS). In West Virginia, Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit www.1800gambler.net. All games regulated by the West Virginia Lottery. Please play responsibly. In partnership with Hollywood Casino at Charles Town Races. In Connecticut, Help is available for problem gambling call 888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The dust has settled on the greatest NASCAR Cup season in history, and it’s time to recap all that we’ve learned about 1979. Dale Earnhardt Jr. invites some of the guests from BECOMING EARNHARDT for a roundtable discussion to recount all that we’ve learned and conclude some of our favorite character’s stories. Dale’s aunts Cathy Watkins and Kaye Snipes as well as Osterlund Racing crew member Doug Richert return as first-hand character witnesses who helped bring the story of 1979 to life.The chat once again sets the dial back to the beginning of 1979 and views Dale Earnhardt through the eyes of his family, as he’s getting ready to embark on the biggest opportunity in his young racing career. It also dissects complicated characters like Jake Elder and the team dynamic at Osterlund Racing. They dive into the significance of the NASCAR Cup Rookie of the Year in 1979 and just how close things got in the race between Dale and Joe Millikan. Finally, some new details are revealed about the severity of Dale’s injury at Pocono and his lengthy hospital stay and time out of the driver’s seatDraftKings State-Specific Problem Gambling Information:In Massachusetts, call (800) 327-5050 or visit gamblinghelplinema.org, In New York, call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369). In Tennessee and Kansas, Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER. On behalf of Boot Hill Casino & Resort (KS). In West Virginia, Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit www.1800gambler.net. All games regulated by the West Virginia Lottery. Please play responsibly. In partnership with Hollywood Casino at Charles Town Races. In Connecticut, Help is available for problem gambling call 888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

After 27 grueling weeks, it comes down to the final four races. Somehow, after all the roster changes, crashes, fights and calamity, there are two tight points races to be decided. As the NASCAR Cup contingent prepares for the last stretch, the season points championship and the Rookie of the Year battles have never been closer.  Dale Earnhardt surely had the rookie crown locked up after his stunning victory at Bristol in April, but the trusty DeWitt team and their unproven chauffeur Joe Millikan have kept him in sight. After Dale’s disastrous crash and time on the sideline, Millikan took full advantage and strung together a series of top-10 finishes to take over the top spot in the standings. In the Grand National points race, Darrell Waltrip jumped out to an early lead and never looked back for most of the season. But after a catastrophic sequence of engine failures and crashes, the DiGard team seems to have begun to crumble under the pressure of winning their first season championship. Even worse, the King Richard Petty has been steadily getting closer in the rearview mirror, and he has his sights set on an unprecedented seventh Cup crown.  Join us as we go down to the wire in the greatest NASCAR Cup season in history. We’ll unpack the final four events: North Wilkesboro, Rockingham, Atlanta and Ontario. By the end of it, we will have decided two incredible points contests, with winners who represent NASCAR’s past and future. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

After 27 grueling weeks, it comes down to the final four races. Somehow, after all the roster changes, crashes, fights and calamity, there are two tight points races to be decided. As the NASCAR Cup contingent prepares for the last stretch, the season points championship and the Rookie of the Year battles have never been closer. Dale Earnhardt surely had the rookie crown locked up after his stunning victory at Bristol in April, but the trusty DeWitt team and their unproven chauffeur Joe Millikan have kept him in sight. After Dale’s disastrous crash and time on the sideline, Millikan took full advantage and strung together a series of top-10 finishes to take over the top spot in the standings.In the Grand National points race, Darrell Waltrip jumped out to an early lead and never looked back for most of the season. But after a catastrophic sequence of engine failures and crashes, the DiGard team seems to have begun to crumble under the pressure of winning their first season championship. Even worse, the King Richard Petty has been steadily getting closer in the rearview mirror, and he has his sights set on an unprecedented seventh Cup crown. Join us as we go down to the wire in the greatest NASCAR Cup season in history. We’ll unpack the final four events: North Wilkesboro, Rockingham, Atlanta and Ontario. By the end of it, we will have decided two incredible points contests, with winners who represent NASCAR’s past and future.DraftKings State-Specific Problem Gambling Information:In Massachusetts, call (800) 327-5050 or visit gamblinghelplinema.org, In New York, call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369). In Tennessee and Kansas, Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER. On behalf of Boot Hill Casino & Resort (KS). In West Virginia, Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit www.1800gambler.net. All games regulated by the West Virginia Lottery. Please play responsibly. In partnership with Hollywood Casino at Charles Town Races. In Connecticut, Help is available for problem gambling call 888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. is back from the NASCAR Regular Season finale at Daytona for another episode of Dirty Air. He joins co-host Mike Davis to break down the superspeedway action and debate a few other topics: The etiquette of liking or not liking bad news on social media Atlanta is NOT a superspeedway Justin Allgaier’s big Daytona win High speeds, big crashes and improved safety The debut of some new Dale Jr. Download segments During the Ask Jr. portion of the episode, listeners wrote in questions regarding: Have Dale’s favorite things held up since 2001? The story behind the relic Budweiser case Karsyn Elledge’s appearance on Claim to Fame Dale’s iPhone wallpaper and lock screen photos To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. is back from the NASCAR Regular Season finale at Daytona for another episode of Dirty Air. He joins co-host Mike Davis to break down the superspeedway action and debate a few other topics: The etiquette of liking or not liking bad news on social media Atlanta is NOT a superspeedway Justin Allgaier’s big Daytona win High speeds, big crashes and improved safety The debut of some new Dale Jr. Download segments During the Ask Jr. portion of the episode, listeners wrote in questions regarding: Have Dale’s favorite things held up since 2001? The story behind the relic Budweiser case Karsyn Elledge’s appearance on Claim to Fame Dale’s iPhone wallpaper and lock screen photos DraftKings State-Specific Problem Gambling Information:In Massachusetts, call (800) 327-5050 or visit gamblinghelplinema.org, In New York, call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369). In Tennessee and Kansas, Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER. On behalf of Boot Hill Casino & Resort (KS). In West Virginia, Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit www.1800gambler.net. All games regulated by the West Virginia Lottery. Please play responsibly. In partnership with Hollywood Casino at Charles Town Races. In Connecticut, Help is available for problem gambling call 888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

ROAD TRIP! Dale Earnhardt Jr. and Mike Davis take the Dirty Mo Crew on the road for today's episode. Fresh off the track at Martinsville testing for NASCAR's MX5 support series, Dale Jr. describes how the cars drive, how similar they are to a stock car, and what the future may look like for the series at Martinsville Speedway. Plus Dale Jr. and Mike react to the release of Becoming Earnhardt Volume 7, Denny Hamlin's spicy comments about Sam Mayer from Watkins Glen, and so much more! Plus another short track update from Hannah Newhouse on Short Track Insider. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

ROAD TRIP! Dale Earnhardt Jr. and Mike Davis take the Dirty Mo Crew on the road for today's episode. Fresh off the track at Martinsville testing for NASCAR's MX5 support series, Dale Jr. describes how the cars drive, how similar they are to a stock car, and what the future may look like for the series at Martinsville Speedway. Plus Dale Jr. and Mike react to the release of Becoming Earnhardt Volume 7, Denny Hamlin's spicy comments about Sam Mayer from Watkins Glen, and so much more! Plus another short track update from Hannah Newhouse on Short Track Insider. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

As we roll into the CRC Chemicals 500 at Dover Downs International Speedway, our hero Dale Earnhardt has settled back into his role as driver of the Osterlund Racing number 2. However, six weeks out of the action has compromised his stamina, and his first race back the prior week in Richmond saw him seeking out assistance from fellow racer Lennie Pond. 500 miles at the challenging, high-banked one-mile oval in Delaware is demanding enough for a healthy driver, but for someone who is still mending two broken collarbones it’s unthinkable. Then again, that’s the Dale Earnhardt we’ve all come to know so well: never backing down from any challenge. In episode seven of Becoming Earnhardt, we deep dive into races 25 through 27 of the 1979 NASCAR Cup season. Three 500-mile contests at three of the most demanding speedways on the circuit: Dover Downs, Martinsville and Charlotte. With the Rookie of the Year battle at stake thanks to the continuous, consistent performance of Joe Milllikan, Dale Earnhardt is prepared to risk further injury to his already weakened body to claim the title sure to be the ticket to a bright future in the top ranks of stock car racing. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

As we roll into the CRC Chemicals 500 at Dover Downs International Speedway, our hero Dale Earnhardt has settled back into his role as driver of the Osterlund Racing number 2. However, six weeks out of the action has compromised his stamina, and his first race back the prior week in Richmond saw him seeking out assistance from fellow racer Lennie Pond. 500 miles at the challenging, high-banked one-mile oval in Delaware is demanding enough for a healthy driver, but for someone who is still mending two broken collarbones it’s unthinkable. Then again, that’s the Dale Earnhardt we’ve all come to know so well: never backing down from any challenge.In episode seven of Becoming Earnhardt, we deep dive into races 25 through 27 of the 1979 NASCAR Cup season. Three 500-mile contests at three of the most demanding speedways on the circuit: Dover Downs, Martinsville and Charlotte. With the Rookie of the Year battle at stake thanks to the continuous, consistent performance of Joe Milllikan, Dale Earnhardt is prepared to risk further injury to his already weakened body to claim the title sure to be the ticket to a bright future in the top ranks of stock car racing. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. is back to start another week of the Dale Jr. Download with his co-host Mike Davis. This episode is a little out of the ordinary, as it involves a field trip. All the while, the guys had plenty to discuss: Denny Hamlin’s ongoing contract negotiations NASCAR NextGen’s road course problems Sam Mayer’s last lap bump to Ty Gibbs Dale Jr. getting behind the wheel at an IMSA test at Martinsville To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. is back to start another week of the Dale Jr. Download with his co-host Mike Davis. This episode is a little out of the ordinary, as it involves a field trip. All the while, the guys had plenty to discuss: Denny Hamlin’s ongoing contract negotiations NASCAR NextGen’s road course problems Sam Mayer’s last lap bump to Ty Gibbs Dale Jr. getting behind the wheel at an IMSA test at Martinsville To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis return once again to the Bojangles Studio to close out the Download week. The guys discuss the latest episode of Becoming Earnhardt which finds Dale Earnhardt watching the 1979 NASCAR Cup season from the sidelines after a major crash at Pocono. They discuss the psychology of the racer and what Dale may have been thinking at the moment, as well as the progression of driver injury rehabilitation protocol. Dale reacts to Noah Gragson’s recent release from Legacy Motor Club and offers up suggestions as to what he should do next in his career. Also, there is a preview of the new NASCAR Classics platform, a round of Immaculate Grid, and a bit from the Short Track Insider. DraftKings State-Specific Problem Gambling Information: In Massachusetts, call (800) 327-5050 or visit gamblinghelplinema.org, In New York, call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369). In Tennessee and Kansas, Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER. On behalf of Boot Hill Casino & Resort (KS). In West Virginia, Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit www.1800gambler.net. All games regulated by the West Virginia Lottery. Please play responsibly. In partnership with Hollywood Casino at Charles Town Races. In Connecticut, Help is available for problem gambling call 888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis return once again to the Bojangles Studio to close out the Download week. The guys discuss the latest episode of Becoming Earnhardt which finds Dale Earnhardt watching the 1979 NASCAR Cup season from the sidelines after a major crash at Pocono. They discuss the psychology of the racer and what Dale may have been thinking at the moment, as well as the progression of driver injury rehabilitation protocol. Dale reacts to Noah Gragson’s recent release from Legacy Motor Club and offers up suggestions as to what he should do next in his career. Also, there is a preview of the new NASCAR Classics platform, a round of Immaculate Grid, and a bit from the Short Track Insider.DraftKings State-Specific Problem Gambling Information:In Massachusetts, call (800) 327-5050 or visit gamblinghelplinema.org, In New York, call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369). In Tennessee and Kansas, Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER. On behalf of Boot Hill Casino & Resort (KS). In West Virginia, Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit www.1800gambler.net. All games regulated by the West Virginia Lottery. Please play responsibly. In partnership with Hollywood Casino at Charles Town Races. In Connecticut, Help is available for problem gambling call 888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It was a rookie season of the ages, until it wasn’t. A cut tire and Pocono’s unforgiving steel boiler-plate walls left Dale Earnhardt with two broken collarbones and an open-ended timeframe for recovery. The NASCAR Cup circuit would then roll on as he began to mend in an East Stroudsburg, PA hospital. The progress he made in the stock car ranks and his grip on the 1979 Rookie of the Year award would be tested as his closest competitors in the freshman race would continue onward. Even worse, his own ride and future could be in jeopardy, as the Osterlund Racing team makes a call to one of the greatest drivers in history to fill-in during the interim.  On this episode of Becoming Earnhardt, our exploration of the 1979 NASCAR Cup season unpacks races 20 through 24. Our main character will wrestle with watching from the sidelines as his blue and yellow number-2 gets driven by a NASCAR legend at some of his favorite tracks. The Cup contingent returns to Talladega, Michigan, Bristol and Darlington. When the Osterlund crew finds victory lane without him, Dale makes a miraculous return to the driver’s seat, defying his doctors, the press and the rest of the NASCAR garage. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It was a rookie season of the ages, until it wasn’t. A cut tire and Pocono’s unforgiving steel boiler-plate walls left Dale Earnhardt with two broken collarbones and an open-ended timeframe for recovery. The NASCAR Cup circuit would then roll on as he began to mend in an East Stroudsburg, PA hospital. The progress he made in the stock car ranks and his grip on the 1979 Rookie of the Year award would be tested as his closest competitors in the freshman race would continue onward. Even worse, his own ride and future could be in jeopardy, as the Osterlund Racing team makes a call to one of the greatest drivers in history to fill-in during the interim. On this episode of Becoming Earnhardt, our exploration of the 1979 NASCAR Cup season unpacks races 20 through 24. Our main character will wrestle with watching from the sidelines as his blue and yellow number-2 gets driven by a NASCAR legend at some of his favorite tracks. The Cup contingent returns to Talladega, Michigan, Bristol and Darlington. When the Osterlund crew finds victory lane without him, Dale makes a miraculous return to the driver’s seat, defying his doctors, the press and the rest of the NASCAR garage. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. is back from the Racing Capital of the World to join co-host Mike Davis for another episode of Dirty Air. After a compelling NASCAR race weekend in Indianapolis and some new developments in the life of fatherhood, the guys had plenty to unpack: Isla’s first day of kindergarten Michael McDowell’s emotional win How did the road course ringers fare?  Is the Indianapolis Motor Speedway oval coming back? To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. is back from the Racing Capital of the World to join co-host Mike Davis for another episode of Dirty Air. After a compelling NASCAR race weekend in Indianapolis and some new developments in the life of fatherhood, the guys had plenty to unpack: Isla’s first day of kindergarten Michael McDowell’s emotional win How did the road course ringers fare?  Is the Indianapolis Motor Speedway oval coming back? To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Shane Van Gisbergen stops by the Bojangles Studio to chat with Dale Earnhardt Jr. in preparation for his highly anticipated return to NASCAR action this weekend in Indianapolis. After a stunning upset victory in his first NASCAR Cup attempt at the Chicago Street Course, SVG announced his plans to follow up his impressive debut by invading the Racing Capital of the World. He has also made it clear that he’d like to pursue NASCAR racing full-time in 2024, and he unpacks what that may look like with Dale Jr. and Download co-host Mike Davis.  But before that can become a reality, SVG is set to see how he’ll fare in pavement oval competition as he embarks on his first NASCAR Truck start for Niece Motorsports at Indianapolis Raceway Park. SVG explains that most of his experience in oval racing came early in his career in the quarter midget ranks, as well as some winged sprint car races he ran more recently. Dale Jr. provides some pointers on how to get around the 0.686-mile speedway and what to expect from Trucks competition. They also discuss SVG’s use of heel-and-toe shifting, the world of Australian V8 Supercars, and the rest of the ringers for this coming weekend in Indy. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Shane Van Gisbergen stops by the Bojangles Studio to chat with Dale Earnhardt Jr. in preparation for his highly anticipated return to NASCAR action this weekend in Indianapolis. After a stunning upset victory in his first NASCAR Cup attempt at the Chicago Street Course, SVG announced his plans to follow up his impressive debut by invading the Racing Capital of the World. He has also made it clear that he’d like to pursue NASCAR racing full-time in 2024, and he unpacks what that may look like with Dale Jr. and Download co-host Mike Davis. But before that can become a reality, SVG is set to see how he’ll fare in pavement oval competition as he embarks on his first NASCAR Truck start for Niece Motorsports at Indianapolis Raceway Park. SVG explains that most of his experience in oval racing came early in his career in the quarter midget ranks, as well as some winged sprint car races he ran more recently. Dale Jr. provides some pointers on how to get around the 0.686-mile speedway and what to expect from Trucks competition. They also discuss SVG’s use of heel-and-toe shifting, the world of Australian V8 Supercars, and the rest of the ringers for this coming weekend in Indy. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It’s June of 1979 and 28-year-old Dale Earnhardt is feeling as confident as ever. With a notch in the win column and top five finishes in the last three races, the rookie seems to have found his place amongst the stock car racing elite. As episode five of Becoming Earnhardt opens, the NASCAR Cup circuit travels to the Lone Star State to take on the daunting Texas World Speedway. Dale would once again race his way into the spotlight, nipping at the heels of eventual race winner Darrell Waltrip before a mechanical failure sent him into the wall and made him settle for a 12th place finish. But the impressive showing had Ol’ DW once again admitting in victory lane, “when all the seasoned veterans retire, it’ll be Dale Earnhardt I’ll have to contend with.” It’s during this episode that the NASCAR garage gets its first glimpse at the on-track aggression that would eventually become “The Intimidator”. In a late race hustle at Michigan International, Dale makes a daring move that sends many top contenders scrambling, bringing about the ire of the very drivers who had been singing his praises. And while this constructive feedback from his mentors may have had him reconsidering his standing in the Cup ranks, it didn’t seem to slow him down any. As the Cup schedule hits the Poconos and Dale takes on the Tricky Triangle for the first time in his career, he is dealt a turn of events that will leave his dreams of being a NASCAR Champion in doubt.  To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It’s June of 1979 and 28-year-old Dale Earnhardt is feeling as confident as ever. With a notch in the win column and top five finishes in the last three races, the rookie seems to have found his place amongst the stock car racing elite. As episode five of Becoming Earnhardt opens, the NASCAR Cup circuit travels to the Lone Star State to take on the daunting Texas World Speedway. Dale would once again race his way into the spotlight, nipping at the heels of eventual race winner Darrell Waltrip before a mechanical failure sent him into the wall and made him settle for a 12th place finish. But the impressive showing had Ol’ DW once again admitting in victory lane, “when all the seasoned veterans retire, it’ll be Dale Earnhardt I’ll have to contend with.”It’s during this episode that the NASCAR garage gets its first glimpse at the on-track aggression that would eventually become “The Intimidator”. In a late race hustle at Michigan International, Dale makes a daring move that sends many top contenders scrambling, bringing about the ire of the very drivers who had been singing his praises. And while this constructive feedback from his mentors may have had him reconsidering his standing in the Cup ranks, it didn’t seem to slow him down any. As the Cup schedule hits the Poconos and Dale takes on the Tricky Triangle for the first time in his career, he is dealt a turn of events that will leave his dreams of being a NASCAR Champion in doubt.  To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. returns from a rainy weekend in Michigan to join co-host Mike Davis for another episode of Dirty Air. With a star-studded NASCAR Cup race set for this coming weekend at the Indianapolis Road Course, the guys handicap the top ringers in the field, being Kamui Kobayashi, Shane Van Gisbergen, and Brodie Kostecki. They also recap Chris Buescher’s big win at Michigan and what it means for Roush-Fenway-Keselowski Racing and the rest of the Ford manufacturing roster.  During the Ask Jr. segment, listeners sent in questions regarding: What traits Dale looks for in young drivers Should all tracks have lights? Ideal songs for personal entrance music Favorite Washington Commanders moments witnessed in person What movie do you wish you could rewatch for the first time? To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. returns from a rainy weekend in Michigan to join co-host Mike Davis for another episode of Dirty Air. With a star-studded NASCAR Cup race set for this coming weekend at the Indianapolis Road Course, the guys handicap the top ringers in the field, being Kamui Kobayashi, Shane Van Gisbergen, and Brodie Kostecki. They also recap Chris Buescher’s big win at Michigan and what it means for Roush-Fenway-Keselowski Racing and the rest of the Ford manufacturing roster. During the Ask Jr. segment, listeners sent in questions regarding: What traits Dale looks for in young drivers Should all tracks have lights? Ideal songs for personal entrance music Favorite Washington Commanders moments witnessed in person What movie do you wish you could rewatch for the first time? To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. returns to wrap up the Download week with his co-host Mike Davis. The guys recap Sam Mayer’s first career Xfinity win. They check in on the ever-changing “bubble battle” as the NASCAR Cup Regular Season draws to a close. They also chat about the Xfinity Series’ big announcement that their future race broadcasts will be televised on the CW. Shane Van Gisbergen has announced his plans to race in NASCAR full-time next year, but where will he land? The guys hear from the Short Track Insider and tackle a new game, NASCAR’s Immaculate Grid.  During the Ask Jr. segment of the episode, listeners sent in questions regarding:  Dale’s choice in sneakers What it was like to shoot the new Bojangles commercial Regular Season Championship significance  Playoff points carrying over between rounds What volume Dale prefers his music at in his car To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. returns to wrap up the Download week with his co-host Mike Davis. The guys recap Sam Mayer’s first career Xfinity win. They check in on the ever-changing “bubble battle” as the NASCAR Cup Regular Season draws to a close. They also chat about the Xfinity Series’ big announcement that their future race broadcasts will be televised on the CW. Shane Van Gisbergen has announced his plans to race in NASCAR full-time next year, but where will he land? The guys hear from the Short Track Insider and tackle a new game, NASCAR’s Immaculate Grid. During the Ask Jr. segment of the episode, listeners sent in questions regarding:  Dale’s choice in sneakers What it was like to shoot the new Bojangles commercial Regular Season Championship significance  Playoff points carrying over between rounds What volume Dale prefers his music at in his car To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Basking in the glory of his first NASCAR Cup victory, rookie Dale Earnhardt finds himself in the conversation of the top talents in the garage area. Not only has he put the heat on the rest of the rookie class with his triumph, but he’s put stock car racing’s veterans on notice: the kid from Kannapolis is the real deal. But following up his win would be no easy task, as the next event on the Cup schedule would take him to the track deemed Too Tough To Tame, and the Lady in Black had many hard lessons to teach an overconfident freshman.  After Darlington and his first trip to the Paperclip, Dale and the rest of the NASCAR contingent take on a grueling month of May, which includes the fastest race weekend to date at Talladega, a brutal 500-lapper at Dover and the longest contest in stock car racing, the World 600. Join us on this episode of Becoming Earnhardt as we unpack races 8 through 13 of the greatest NASCAR season ever, 1979. Our main character has found the spotlight, but it will be tested by not only some of the toughest events on the calendar but a toe-to-toe battle with none other than the King of NASCAR himself. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Basking in the glory of his first NASCAR Cup victory, rookie Dale Earnhardt finds himself in the conversation of the top talents in the garage area. Not only has he put the heat on the rest of the rookie class with his triumph, but he’s put stock car racing’s veterans on notice: the kid from Kannapolis is the real deal. But following up his win would be no easy task, as the next event on the Cup schedule would take him to the track deemed Too Tough To Tame, and the Lady in Black had many hard lessons to teach an overconfident freshman. After Darlington and his first trip to the Paperclip, Dale and the rest of the NASCAR contingent take on a grueling month of May, which includes the fastest race weekend to date at Talladega, a brutal 500-lapper at Dover and the longest contest in stock car racing, the World 600. Join us on this episode of Becoming Earnhardt as we unpack races 8 through 13 of the greatest NASCAR season ever, 1979. Our main character has found the spotlight, but it will be tested by not only some of the toughest events on the calendar but a toe-to-toe battle with none other than the King of NASCAR himself. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. joins co-host Mike Davis back in the Bojangles Studio for another edition of Dirty Air. After the weekend at Richmond, many are offering up their opinions on the latest short track showcase of the NextGen car, and Dale was ready to provide some insight: New steakhouse discourse  Fords looked strong at Richmond PJ1 vs. resin Dale responds to Denny Hamlin and Carson Hocevar To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. joins co-host Mike Davis back in the Bojangles Studio for another edition of Dirty Air. After the weekend at Richmond, many are offering up their opinions on the latest short track showcase of the NextGen car, and Dale was ready to provide some insight: New steakhouse discourse  Fords looked strong at Richmond PJ1 vs. resin Dale responds to Denny Hamlin and Carson Hocevar To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

No question too big, no question too small. On Search Engine, host PJ Vogt answers the kinds of questions you might ask the internet when you can't sleep. If you find the world bewildering, but also sometimes enjoy being bewildered by it, we're here for you.  To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

No question too big, no question too small. On Search Engine, host PJ Vogt answers the kinds of questions you might ask the internet when you can't sleep. If you find the world bewildering, but also sometimes enjoy being bewildered by it, we're here for you.  To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In the aftermath of the 1979 Daytona 500, NASCAR found itself on an unimaginable trajectory to becoming the biggest form of motorsport in the country. Some 16-million viewers tuned in to watch the flag to flag coverage on CBS, and having witnessed the fight, the King and the rest of the action, they were hungry for more. The result was speedway box offices being flooded with ticket requests, and the largest crowds that had ever assembled to take in stock car racing. Rockingham, Richmond, Atlanta, North Wilkesboro and Bristol were next on the schedule to take a turn at entertaining the masses. And luckily, NASCAR had plenty of talent in the garage ready to seize the spotlight. One of these talents is the 28-year-old from Kannapolis, Dale Earnhardt. Dale established himself as the rising star to watch during his daring, yet calculated performance on the Daytona highbanks. With the press, fans and racing veterans all singing his praises, he seemed destined to find victory lane. But when would that happen? On this episode of Becoming Earnhardt, we tell the tale of the next five races of the 1979 season and explain how a 500-lap showdown at a bullring nestled in Thunder Valley would propel Dale towards super stardom. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In the aftermath of the 1979 Daytona 500, NASCAR found itself on an unimaginable trajectory to becoming the biggest form of motorsport in the country. Some 16-million viewers tuned in to watch the flag to flag coverage on CBS, and having witnessed the fight, the King and the rest of the action, they were hungry for more. The result was speedway box offices being flooded with ticket requests, and the largest crowds that had ever assembled to take in stock car racing. Rockingham, Richmond, Atlanta, North Wilkesboro and Bristol were next on the schedule to take a turn at entertaining the masses. And luckily, NASCAR had plenty of talent in the garage ready to seize the spotlight.One of these talents is the 28-year-old from Kannapolis, Dale Earnhardt. Dale established himself as the rising star to watch during his daring, yet calculated performance on the Daytona highbanks. With the press, fans and racing veterans all singing his praises, he seemed destined to find victory lane. But when would that happen? On this episode of Becoming Earnhardt, we tell the tale of the next five races of the 1979 season and explain how a 500-lap showdown at a bullring nestled in Thunder Valley would propel Dale towards super stardom. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. is back in the Bojangles Studio to join co-host Mike Davis and unpack all the action from NASCAR’s weekend in Pocono. After a controversial finish that has race fans split, there was plenty to discuss: Dale’s adventure reporting from the flag stand Austin Dillon vs. Tyler Reddick Denny Hamlin vs.Kyle Larson How good it is to be a NASCAR fan right now During the Ask Jr. segment of the show, listeners sent in questions about: NASCAR’s delayed caution at the end of the Cup race Apologies between drivers If you didn’t need sleep, how would you spend the extra time? To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. is back in the Bojangles Studio to join co-host Mike Davis and unpack all the action from NASCAR’s weekend in Pocono. After a controversial finish that has race fans split, there was plenty to discuss: Dale’s adventure reporting from the flag stand Austin Dillon vs. Tyler Reddick Denny Hamlin vs.Kyle Larson How good it is to be a NASCAR fan right now During the Ask Jr. segment of the show, listeners sent in questions about: NASCAR’s delayed caution at the end of the Cup race Apologies between drivers If you didn’t need sleep, how would you spend the extra time? To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The legendary Donnie Allison joins Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis in the Bojangles Studio to share never before told stories at the table. Donnie recounts the iconic 1979 Daytona 500, and the famous fight he was involved in from the race that put the sport on the map. Donnie details a diverse racing career that includes multiple starts in the Indianapolis 500, and reveals who he believes is the greatest race car driver to ever live. The group also discusses Allison's relationship with Cale Yarbrough after the '79 Daytona 500, a crash that altered the trajectory of his career, and a confrontation between Donnie and Dale Earnhardt that you don't want to miss. Dale Jr and Allison also discuss Donnie's nomination for the NASCAR Hall of Fame's pioneer ballot, and what it would mean for him to be voted in to the prestigious group. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The legendary Donnie Allison joins Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis in the Bojangles Studio to share never before told stories at the table. Donnie recounts the iconic 1979 Daytona 500, and the famous fight he was involved in from the race that put the sport on the map. Donnie details a diverse racing career that includes multiple starts in the Indianapolis 500, and reveals who he believes is the greatest race car driver to ever live.The group also discusses Allison's relationship with Cale Yarbrough after the '79 Daytona 500, a crash that altered the trajectory of his career, and a confrontation between Donnie and Dale Earnhardt that you don't want to miss. Dale Jr and Allison also discuss Donnie's nomination for the NASCAR Hall of Fame's pioneer ballot, and what it would mean for him to be voted in to the prestigious group. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It’s January of 1979 and 28-year-old Dale Earnhardt is ready to embark on the greatest challenge he’s faced in his young career to date: a full season in the NASCAR Cup Series. As the teams and haulers head west to California to kick things off, we zero in on the blue-and-yellow Osterlund Racing No. 2, which Dale will chauffeur for the first time on a road course. After a promising afternoon, his overzealousness gets the best of him and the Rookie of the Year spotlight is shifted to another promising newcomer. Once the Los Angeles skyline is behind them, the teams and drivers travel back east, this time on a collision course with history. Thanks to the recent split in the American championship car ranks, the motorsports world was ripe for a new leader. NASCAR had just the bill of excitement to make its case to be a household name in entertainment: Daytona Speedweeks. But little did anyone know what the 1979 rendition of the Great American Race had in store for the world, and how a network television deal, a fight and the return of NASCAR’s King would win over a new generation of stock car fans. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It’s January of 1979 and 28-year-old Dale Earnhardt is ready to embark on the greatest challenge he’s faced in his young career to date: a full season in the NASCAR Cup Series. As the teams and haulers head west to California to kick things off, we zero in on the blue-and-yellow Osterlund Racing No. 2, which Dale will chauffeur for the first time on a road course. After a promising afternoon, his overzealousness gets the best of him and the Rookie of the Year spotlight is shifted to another promising newcomer.Once the Los Angeles skyline is behind them, the teams and drivers travel back east, this time on a collision course with history. Thanks to the recent split in the American championship car ranks, the motorsports world was ripe for a new leader. NASCAR had just the bill of excitement to make its case to be a household name in entertainment: Daytona Speedweeks. But little did anyone know what the 1979 rendition of the Great American Race had in store for the world, and how a network television deal, a fight and the return of NASCAR’s King would win over a new generation of stock car fans. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. is back in the studio with co-host Mike Davis to break down NASCAR’s weekend in New Hampshire. As always, Dale had a lot to share from the broadcasting booth, and the guys chat about: Why not race in the rain? Five racing grooves at New Hampshire The short track package test has been postponed The developing Playoff points bubble situation During the Ask Jr. segment of the show, listeners sent in questions regarding: Larry the Lobster Dale’s trophy collection  Martin Truex Jr.’s 2024 plans To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. is back in the studio with co-host Mike Davis to break down NASCAR’s weekend in New Hampshire. As always, Dale had a lot to share from the broadcasting booth, and the guys chat about: Why not race in the rain? Five racing grooves at New Hampshire The short track package test has been postponed The developing Playoff points bubble situation During the Ask Jr. segment of the show, listeners sent in questions regarding: Larry the Lobster Dale’s trophy collection  Martin Truex Jr.’s 2024 plans To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis are back again to wrap up another week of the Dale Jr. Download. After the exciting, Wednesday world premiere of Becoming Earnhardt, the guys reflect on the first episode and what it was like putting that series together. They also react to the big news that Busch Beer will be joining Ross Chastain and Trackhouse for the 2024 NASCAR season. Now that we’re past the halfway point of the NASCAR season, it’s time to start looking at the “bubble battle” and the guys speculate who may “points in” as well as who will make the final four. Finally, no Thursday episode would be complete without a new game (Guess the Year) and a report from the Short Track Insider. During the Ask Jr. segment, listeners sent in questions regarding: Do Isla and Nicole realize Dale Jr.’s voice is in Cars? What is the origin of racing under number 88? What fan tattoo stands out the most? NBC pre-race show grid walk and other ideas To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis are back again to wrap up another week of the Dale Jr. Download. After the exciting, Wednesday world premiere of Becoming Earnhardt, the guys reflect on the first episode and what it was like putting that series together. They also react to the big news that Busch Beer will be joining Ross Chastain and Trackhouse for the 2024 NASCAR season. Now that we’re past the halfway point of the NASCAR season, it’s time to start looking at the “bubble battle” and the guys speculate who may “points in” as well as who will make the final four. Finally, no Thursday episode would be complete without a new game (Guess the Year) and a report from the Short Track Insider.During the Ask Jr. segment, listeners sent in questions regarding: Do Isla and Nicole realize Dale Jr.’s voice is in Cars? What is the origin of racing under number 88? What fan tattoo stands out the most? NBC pre-race show grid walk and other ideas To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In 1979, Dale Earnhardt scored the biggest opportunity of his budding career to run in the NASCAR Cup Series full-time for upcoming car owner Rod Osterlund. While there are remnants of that season’s events preserved through television and radio broadcasts, as well as other memorabilia, Dale’s older sister Kaye did what any supportive sibling in the 70s would do: she started scrapbooking. Within these scrapbook pages lie a comprehensive picture of what the 1979 NASCAR season was like from the perspective of the rookie Kannapolis driver. Decades later, it was these very scrapbooks that inspired Dale Earnhardt Jr. to create a new podcast series documenting the monumental season and his father’s rapid, meteoric rise to stock car stardom. In episode one of Becoming Earnhardt, listeners will gain a better understanding of what the world was like in 1979, not only in motorsports but the world as a whole. The landscape of NASCAR in the late ‘70s is unpacked, and the cast of characters who would set out to compete for the season crown of ‘79 are introduced. We also learn how 28-year-old Dale Earnhardt drove his way through the dirt short track ranks of the Charlotte area to land one of the most coveted opportunities in the NASCAR Cup garage, chauffeuring the number-2 blue and yellow stock cars for Osterlund Racing. DraftKings State-Specific Problem Gambling Information: In Massachusetts, call (800) 327-5050 or visit gamblinghelplinema.org, In New York, call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369). In Tennessee and Kansas, Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER. On behalf of Boot Hill Casino & Resort (KS). In West Virginia, Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit www.1800gambler.net. All games regulated by the West Virginia Lottery. Please play responsibly. In partnership with Hollywood Casino at Charles Town Races. In Connecticut, Help is available for problem gambling call 888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In 1979, Dale Earnhardt scored the biggest opportunity of his budding career to run in the NASCAR Cup Series full-time for upcoming car owner Rod Osterlund. While there are remnants of that season’s events preserved through television and radio broadcasts, as well as other memorabilia, Dale’s older sister Kaye did what any supportive sibling in the 70s would do: she started scrapbooking. Within these scrapbook pages lie a comprehensive picture of what the 1979 NASCAR season was like from the perspective of the rookie Kannapolis driver. Decades later, it was these very scrapbooks that inspired Dale Earnhardt Jr. to create a new podcast series documenting the monumental season and his father’s rapid, meteoric rise to stock car stardom.In episode one of Becoming Earnhardt, listeners will gain a better understanding of what the world was like in 1979, not only in motorsports but the world as a whole. The landscape of NASCAR in the late ‘70s is unpacked, and the cast of characters who would set out to compete for the season crown of ‘79 are introduced. We also learn how 28-year-old Dale Earnhardt drove his way through the dirt short track ranks of the Charlotte area to land one of the most coveted opportunities in the NASCAR Cup garage, chauffeuring the number-2 blue and yellow stock cars for Osterlund Racing.DraftKings State-Specific Problem Gambling Information:In Massachusetts, call (800) 327-5050 or visit gamblinghelplinema.org, In New York, call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369). In Tennessee and Kansas, Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER. On behalf of Boot Hill Casino & Resort (KS). In West Virginia, Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit www.1800gambler.net. All games regulated by the West Virginia Lottery. Please play responsibly. In partnership with Hollywood Casino at Charles Town Races. In Connecticut, Help is available for problem gambling call 888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. is back after NASCAR’s exciting weekend in Atlanta to join co-host Mike Davis and debrief the weekend. As always, there was plenty of homelife updates and racing action to unpack: Becoming Earnahrdt is upon us Potty Training round two Consequences of drinking a whole bottle of wine Atlanta is back To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. is back after NASCAR’s exciting weekend in Atlanta to join co-host Mike Davis and debrief the weekend. As always, there was plenty of homelife updates and racing action to unpack: Becoming Earnahrdt is upon us Potty Training round two Consequences of drinking a whole bottle of wine Atlanta is back To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. called in from vacation to join co-host Mike Davis, and he brought his fellow vacationer TJ Majors along with him. After the historic NASCAR weekend in Chicago, everyone felt the need to unwind and process all of the monumental events: Dale’s Bluey “controversy”  Dale and TJ’s beach house excursion  The magnitude of the Chicago Street Race event Shane Van Gisbergen’s skill level and victory  During the Ask Jr. segment of the show, listeners sent in questions regarding: Kip Childress’ new position at the CARS Tour Dale and TJ fighting on the radio How many steps did the guys log during the Chicago weekend? Did Dale get a Chicago dog or any deep-dish pizza?  Using track walks to help scout new tracks To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. called in from vacation to join co-host Mike Davis, and he brought his fellow vacationer TJ Majors along with him. After the historic NASCAR weekend in Chicago, everyone felt the need to unwind and process all of the monumental events: Dale’s Bluey “controversy”  Dale and TJ’s beach house excursion  The magnitude of the Chicago Street Race event Shane Van Gisbergen’s skill level and victory  During the Ask Jr. segment of the show, listeners sent in questions regarding: Kip Childress’ new position at the CARS Tour Dale and TJ fighting on the radio How many steps did the guys log during the Chicago weekend? Did Dale get a Chicago dog or any deep-dish pizza?  Using track walks to help scout new tracks To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Class of 2000 reunites as NASCAR Hall of Famer Matt Kenseth joins Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis in the Bojangles Studio. Matt catches everyone up on what he’s been doing since retiring from full-time racing and reflects on whether he misses the week-to-week grind of being a NASCAR Cup racer. Matt also touches on his 2020 return to Ganassi Racing during COVID, and his experience and future plans with SRX. Dale and Matt had a lot to catch up on, and wound back the hands of time to when they first met coming through the NASCAR Xfinity ranks. Dale explains the impact that Matt’s first Xfinity at Rockingham in 1998 had on his perception in the NASCAR garage, and how it made him regarded as a legitimate contender in the rising class of drivers. The two old friends discuss the strange sensation of being happy for each other over the years, all while being partially jealous of one another’s success and how it motivated them to be better behind the wheel. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Class of 2000 reunites as NASCAR Hall of Famer Matt Kenseth joins Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis in the Bojangles Studio. Matt catches everyone up on what he’s been doing since retiring from full-time racing and reflects on whether he misses the week-to-week grind of being a NASCAR Cup racer. Matt also touches on his 2020 return to Ganassi Racing during COVID, and his experience and future plans with SRX.Dale and Matt had a lot to catch up on, and wound back the hands of time to when they first met coming through the NASCAR Xfinity ranks. Dale explains the impact that Matt’s first Xfinity at Rockingham in 1998 had on his perception in the NASCAR garage, and how it made him regarded as a legitimate contender in the rising class of drivers. The two old friends discuss the strange sensation of being happy for each other over the years, all while being partially jealous of one another’s success and how it motivated them to be better behind the wheel. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Class is back in session as Kelley Earnhardt Miller joins co-host Mike Davis for another edition of Business of Motorsports, this time with the President of NBC Sports Sam Flood. After tackling team ownership, race promotion, and the souvenir industry, Kelley and Mike were eager to learn more about the world of television broadcasting and media rights. Sam explains how an unexpected sports injury in college led to him filling in as a commentator, which opened his eyes to a career path in broadcasting. After spending time at ABC Sports, he found his way to NBC covering the 1988 Seoul Olympics as a researcher and has worked for the network ever since.  Sam goes into what he looks for as an executive producer working on the content side of some of the biggest sports broadcasts in television. They also discuss the rise of digital streaming and how cable television has had to adapt and will continue to transform. Finally, he breaks down his philosophy for broadcasting a race and what his days at the racetrack look like. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Class is back in session as Kelley Earnhardt Miller joins co-host Mike Davis for another edition of Business of Motorsports, this time with the President of NBC Sports Sam Flood. After tackling team ownership, race promotion, and the souvenir industry, Kelley and Mike were eager to learn more about the world of television broadcasting and media rights. Sam explains how an unexpected sports injury in college led to him filling in as a commentator, which opened his eyes to a career path in broadcasting. After spending time at ABC Sports, he found his way to NBC covering the 1988 Seoul Olympics as a researcher and has worked for the network ever since. Sam goes into what he looks for as an executive producer working on the content side of some of the biggest sports broadcasts in television. They also discuss the rise of digital streaming and how cable television has had to adapt and will continue to transform. Finally, he breaks down his philosophy for broadcasting a race and what his days at the racetrack look like. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Download has a special episode...live from Ole Red on Broadway in Nashville. Dale and Mike chat about the what's happened so far in the NASCAR season, old stories from when Dale raced plus some personal stories from the guys. Barstool's Will Compton joins to chat about how he became friends with Dale and what the future holds for his NFL career. Alex Bowman stops by to chat about Sunday's race and how he's doing since his back injury. Lastly, Steve Letarte chats with the guys as NBC prepares to begin calling the races on Sunday and the storylines from this season so far. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Download has a special episode...live from Ole Red on Broadway in Nashville. Dale and Mike chat about the what's happened so far in the NASCAR season, old stories from when Dale raced plus some personal stories from the guys. Barstool's Will Compton joins to chat about how he became friends with Dale and what the future holds for his NFL career. Alex Bowman stops by to chat about Sunday's race and how he's doing since his back injury. Lastly, Steve Letarte chats with the guys as NBC prepares to begin calling the races on Sunday and the storylines from this season so far. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis wrap up the week as they react to their Wednesday interview with Josh Berry. The guys reflect on how much they’ve enjoyed documenting Josh’s career progression over the years through his appearances on the Download, and Dale explains that he wishes he would have touched on what Josh’s promotion to the NASCAR Cup Series means for late model racing. It’s also time to give out mid-season accolades for the Cup Series and make some new final four predictions. Plus, no Thursday show would be complete without hearing from the Short Track Insider! To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis wrap up the week as they react to their Wednesday interview with Josh Berry. The guys reflect on how much they’ve enjoyed documenting Josh’s career progression over the years through his appearances on the Download, and Dale explains that he wishes he would have touched on what Josh’s promotion to the NASCAR Cup Series means for late model racing. It’s also time to give out mid-season accolades for the Cup Series and make some new final four predictions. Plus, no Thursday show would be complete without hearing from the Short Track Insider! To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On the biggest day of his racing career, Josh Berry joins Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis to share the news that he’ll be replacing Kevin Harvick in the Stewart-Haas Racing number 4 next year. Josh has been a frequent guest on the Dale Jr. Download throughout the years and could think of no better way to celebrate this major milestone than to sit down and reflect on his time spent at JR Motorsports. The interview covers how the deal to go Cup racing came together, and how Josh’s time spent filling in at Hendrick Motorsports earlier this year served as almost an audition in the decision-making. Dale inquires about how Josh was able to juggle so much at the same time this year, between racing full-time in the Xfinity Series, filling in for Chase Elliott and Alex Bowman, and working on putting together his 2024 Cup plans. Dale and Josh discuss the prospect of being a career late model racer and how his success at the short track level eventually led to the opportunity to run 12 races for JR Motorsports in the Xfinity Series. They also recognize that Josh’s first career Xfinity win at Martinsville helped change the perception of him as a driver and paved the way to his eventual Cup series opportunity. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On the biggest day of his racing career, Josh Berry joins Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis to share the news that he’ll be replacing Kevin Harvick in the Stewart-Haas Racing number 4 next year. Josh has been a frequent guest on the Dale Jr. Download throughout the years and could think of no better way to celebrate this major milestone than to sit down and reflect on his time spent at JR Motorsports. The interview covers how the deal to go Cup racing came together, and how Josh’s time spent filling in at Hendrick Motorsports earlier this year served as almost an audition in the decision-making.Dale inquires about how Josh was able to juggle so much at the same time this year, between racing full-time in the Xfinity Series, filling in for Chase Elliott and Alex Bowman, and working on putting together his 2024 Cup plans. Dale and Josh discuss the prospect of being a career late model racer and how his success at the short track level eventually led to the opportunity to run 12 races for JR Motorsports in the Xfinity Series. They also recognize that Josh’s first career Xfinity win at Martinsville helped change the perception of him as a driver and paved the way to his eventual Cup series opportunity. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis are back from their Father’s Day festivities to compare their experiences from the weekend: Another weekend at the beach Beer smuggling technique Trying new experiences vs. a peaceful day at home The CARS Tour race at Dominion  During the Ask Jr. segment of the episode, listeners wrote in questions regarding: Dale evolving as a broadcaster since his debut Favorite country music artist What type of music Dale Sr. enjoyed Bucket list vacation spot To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis are back from their Father’s Day festivities to compare their experiences from the weekend: Another weekend at the beach Beer smuggling technique Trying new experiences vs. a peaceful day at home The CARS Tour race at Dominion  During the Ask Jr. segment of the episode, listeners wrote in questions regarding: Dale evolving as a broadcaster since his debut Favorite country music artist What type of music Dale Sr. enjoyed Bucket list vacation spot To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In the second chapter of Next Level, Mario Andretti, and host Andrew Kurland discuss his entry into the F1 world. He shares what it was like amidst the protest that kept him out of his debut race in Monza, starting on the pole in his first start at Watkins Glen, and the highs & lows of his 1978 World Championship season. Andretti and Kurland also discuss the dangers of racing, where Mario describes the agony of losing several close friends to the sport. He also touches on the financial aspect of motorsports and explains the difficult times he and his family endured as he tried to make a name for himself in the sport. Watch the Next Level video series on Youtube: youtube.com/playlist?list=PLFUhDMhE1U5TcDZEPO6-I3uE8VnVV_YXm To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In the second chapter of Next Level, Mario Andretti, and host Andrew Kurland discuss his entry into the F1 world. He shares what it was like amidst the protest that kept him out of his debut race in Monza, starting on the pole in his first start at Watkins Glen, and the highs & lows of his 1978 World Championship season.Andretti and Kurland also discuss the dangers of racing, where Mario describes the agony of losing several close friends to the sport. He also touches on the financial aspect of motorsports and explains the difficult times he and his family endured as he tried to make a name for himself in the sport.Watch the Next Level video series on Youtube: youtube.com/playlist?list=PLFUhDMhE1U5TcDZEPO6-I3uE8VnVV_YXm To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It’s the crack era. The most violent time in New York City history. The NYPD is fighting a losing battle and instead of protecting the city from drug dealers, some police officers have become them. This is the never-before-told, first-person documentary of the biggest police corruption scandal in NYPD history and the investigation that uncovered it all. From Audacy Originals and Zak Levitt, the Emmy, Peabody, and NY Press Club Investigative Journalism Award-winning creator of Root of Evil, Gangster Capitalism, and Relative Unknown. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It’s the crack era. The most violent time in New York City history. The NYPD is fighting a losing battle and instead of protecting the city from drug dealers, some police officers have become them. This is the never-before-told, first-person documentary of the biggest police corruption scandal in NYPD history and the investigation that uncovered it all. From Audacy Originals and Zak Levitt, the Emmy, Peabody, and NY Press Club Investigative Journalism Award-winning creator of Root of Evil, Gangster Capitalism, and Relative Unknown. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In the dramatic conclusion of their conversation, Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis talk to longtime NASCAR engine builder Richie Gilmore about his time at Dale Earnhardt Inc. Richie recounts the time at Talladega when he was approached by Dale Earnhardt Sr. and Ty Norris about coming to work at DEI, heading up the engine program for Dale Jr.’s imminent Cup debut. Once there though, Richie realized the grass is always greener on the other side, and work environment and disorganization almost sent him packing back to Hendrick Motorsports. It was then that he had an unforgettable meeting with Dale Sr. that would solidify his place at the organization for years to come. Dale Jr. and Richie have a vulnerable exchange about the fallout at DEI and the responsibility they felt for the way things unfolded. Richie talked about the transition from running the engine shop to running the team’s day-to-day operation when he was promoted to Vice President of Competition after Norris’ departure. Richie also gives listeners some insight into the 2020 merging of Richard Childress Racing and HMS’ engine-building efforts and the effect it has had on Chevrolet’s NASCAR efforts. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In the dramatic conclusion of their conversation, Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis talk to longtime NASCAR engine builder Richie Gilmore about his time at Dale Earnhardt Inc. Richie recounts the time at Talladega when he was approached by Dale Earnhardt Sr. and Ty Norris about coming to work at DEI, heading up the engine program for Dale Jr.’s imminent Cup debut. Once there though, Richie realized the grass is always greener on the other side, and work environment and disorganization almost sent him packing back to Hendrick Motorsports. It was then that he had an unforgettable meeting with Dale Sr. that would solidify his place at the organization for years to come.Dale Jr. and Richie have a vulnerable exchange about the fallout at DEI and the responsibility they felt for the way things unfolded. Richie talked about the transition from running the engine shop to running the team’s day-to-day operation when he was promoted to Vice President of Competition after Norris’ departure. Richie also gives listeners some insight into the 2020 merging of Richard Childress Racing and HMS’ engine-building efforts and the effect it has had on Chevrolet’s NASCAR efforts. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. reunites with a major figure from his career as he and co-host Mike Davis sit down with former Dale Earnhardt Inc. engine builder Richie Gilmore. After getting his start working on his uncle Jim Landry’s supermodifieds in the New Hampshire short track scene, Richie found his way into the NASCAR Busch North Series garage, and eventually gravitated to North Carolina, It was there he found a position working for Bob Whitcomb Racing, and in 1990 with Derrike Cope behind the wheel, the small but mighty outfit scored an upset victory in the Daytona 500. The interview gives an in-depth look at that 1990 Daytona victory and how the Whitcomb team miraculously completed the entirety of Speedweeks with the same power plant, which Richie helped assemble with his mentor Keith Dorton. Richie also speaks on his time working with Keith’s brother Randy Dorton at Hendrick Motorsports, and how he spearheaded HMS’s engine leasing program to Joe Gibbs Racing, which resulted in Dale Jarrett’s 1993 Daytona 500 triumph. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. reunites with a major figure from his career as he and co-host Mike Davis sit down with former Dale Earnhardt Inc. engine builder Richie Gilmore. After getting his start working on his uncle Jim Landry’s supermodifieds in the New Hampshire short track scene, Richie found his way into the NASCAR Busch North Series garage, and eventually gravitated to North Carolina, It was there he found a position working for Bob Whitcomb Racing, and in 1990 with Derrike Cope behind the wheel, the small but mighty outfit scored an upset victory in the Daytona 500.The interview gives an in-depth look at that 1990 Daytona victory and how the Whitcomb team miraculously completed the entirety of Speedweeks with the same power plant, which Richie helped assemble with his mentor Keith Dorton. Richie also speaks on his time working with Keith’s brother Randy Dorton at Hendrick Motorsports, and how he spearheaded HMS’s engine leasing program to Joe Gibbs Racing, which resulted in Dale Jarrett’s 1993 Daytona 500 triumph. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. is back from vacation to join co-host Mike Davis and chat about life, Sonoma, and endurance racing: Dale’s family vacation in Cabo Beach Yoga No stage breaks in Sonoma Would an endurance race work for NASCAR? During the Ask Jr. segment of the broadcast, listeners sent in questions regarding: Dale’s weekly preparation for NASCAR on NBC broadcasts What happens when drivers go to the infield care center Where to go when visiting Nashville for the first time Favorite piece of Dale Jr. merchandise To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. is back from vacation to join co-host Mike Davis and chat about life, Sonoma, and endurance racing: Dale’s family vacation in Cabo Beach Yoga No stage breaks in Sonoma Would an endurance race work for NASCAR? During the Ask Jr. segment of the broadcast, listeners sent in questions regarding: Dale’s weekly preparation for NASCAR on NBC broadcasts What happens when drivers go to the infield care center Where to go when visiting Nashville for the first time Favorite piece of Dale Jr. merchandise To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

As Kelley Earnhardt Miller’s conversation with Joe Mattes continues, she and co-host Mike Davis ask him about his time spent between Earnhardt-related companies, where he ended up working for the NASCAR.com superstore. When the time came for Dale Jr. to leave Dale Earnhardt Inc. in 2007, Kelley knew she wanted to work with Joe on setting up the branding and marketing for the new endeavor. Joe highlights how he came to work at JR Motorsports and the planning that went behind the announcement of Dale Jr.’s departure from DEI. The conversation covers what was considered one of the best-kept secrets in NASCAR history, as many merchandise vendors were involved but the news of Dale Jr.’s team switch somehow remained sealed. The 2007 announcement and merchandise campaign would go on to be one of the biggest retail successes in auto racing history, and ultimately it was carried out by a handful of people. The interview also gives insight into some of the most memorable Earnhardt-related merchandising and how it all came to be. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

As Kelley Earnhardt Miller’s conversation with Joe Mattes continues, she and co-host Mike Davis ask him about his time spent between Earnhardt-related companies, where he ended up working for the NASCAR.com superstore. When the time came for Dale Jr. to leave Dale Earnhardt Inc. in 2007, Kelley knew she wanted to work with Joe on setting up the branding and marketing for the new endeavor. Joe highlights how he came to work at JR Motorsports and the planning that went behind the announcement of Dale Jr.’s departure from DEI.The conversation covers what was considered one of the best-kept secrets in NASCAR history, as many merchandise vendors were involved but the news of Dale Jr.’s team switch somehow remained sealed. The 2007 announcement and merchandise campaign would go on to be one of the biggest retail successes in auto racing history, and ultimately it was carried out by a handful of people. The interview also gives insight into some of the most memorable Earnhardt-related merchandising and how it all came to be. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Kelley Earnhardt Miller is back for another installment of the Business of Motorsports as she and co-host Mike Davis sit down with JR Motorsports’ Senior Vice President of Business and Strategy Joe Mattes. After spending years in the banking and garment industries, Mattes was connected with Dale Earnhardt Sr. through Don Hawk. Before Joe knew it, he was moving into Dale Sr.’s lake house and taking over a racing empire. Joe fills listeners in on how he and the Earnhardt team created some of the most iconic racing souvenirs of all time, including the Winston 25th Anniversary and the 1996 Olympics diecasts. He also explained the importance of not only working with large distributors and outlets but also directly with smaller vendors and collectors. The episode explains Joe’s departure from Dale Sr.'s enterprise and his early involvement with e-commerce through NASCAR.com. In part two, Joe details his journey back into the Earnhardt inner circle, this time through Dale Jr. and JR Motorsports. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Kelley Earnhardt Miller is back for another installment of the Business of Motorsports as she and co-host Mike Davis sit down with JR Motorsports’ Senior Vice President of Business and Strategy Joe Mattes. After spending years in the banking and garment industries, Mattes was connected with Dale Earnhardt Sr. through Don Hawk. Before Joe knew it, he was moving into Dale Sr.’s lake house and taking over a racing empire.Joe fills listeners in on how he and the Earnhardt team created some of the most iconic racing souvenirs of all time, including the Winston 25th Anniversary and the 1996 Olympics diecasts. He also explained the importance of not only working with large distributors and outlets but also directly with smaller vendors and collectors. The episode explains Joe’s departure from Dale Sr.'s enterprise and his early involvement with e-commerce through NASCAR.com. In part two, Joe details his journey back into the Earnhardt inner circle, this time through Dale Jr. and JR Motorsports. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis are joined by JR Motorsports driver Justin Allgaier to discuss his weekend victory in the NASCAR Xfinity Series event at Charlotte Motor Speedway. They also chat about the adversity the team has faced this year and what has kept them from winning races. Dale fills Mike in on a book he recently read and tells the story of his first tick bite. We also hear from the Short Track Insider and our Man on the Street reporting from Indianapolis Motor Speedway. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis are joined by JR Motorsports driver Justin Allgaier to discuss his weekend victory in the NASCAR Xfinity Series event at Charlotte Motor Speedway. They also chat about the adversity the team has faced this year and what has kept them from winning races. Dale fills Mike in on a book he recently read and tells the story of his first tick bite. We also hear from the Short Track Insider and our Man on the Street reporting from Indianapolis Motor Speedway. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

2023 Coca-Cola 600 winner Ryan Blaney joins Dale Earnhardt Jr. and Mike Davis fresh out of victory lane to discuss how he celebrated and what the win meant to him. Dale and Mike ask Ryan to weigh in on the Chase Elliott/Denny Hamlin incident and what he saw during the race. They also discuss Ryan’s time in the broadcast booth and how it makes him view driver feuds and conflict differently. The guys look ahead to this coming NASCAR weekend in St. Louis at Gateway International Raceway and Ryan gives his opinion of the new NextGen short-track package. They also reflect on the race at North Wilkesboro and how Ryan liked returning to the famed oval after its nearly 30-year absence from the NASCAR Cup schedule. Ryan’s victory at the Coke 600 was special because it snapped a 59-race losing streak, and he fills listeners in on what kept him motivated during the tough time period in his Cup career. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

2023 Coca-Cola 600 winner Ryan Blaney joins Dale Earnhardt Jr. and Mike Davis fresh out of victory lane to discuss how he celebrated and what the win meant to him. Dale and Mike ask Ryan to weigh in on the Chase Elliott/Denny Hamlin incident and what he saw during the race. They also discuss Ryan’s time in the broadcast booth and how it makes him view driver feuds and conflict differently.The guys look ahead to this coming NASCAR weekend in St. Louis at Gateway International Raceway and Ryan gives his opinion of the new NextGen short-track package. They also reflect on the race at North Wilkesboro and how Ryan liked returning to the famed oval after its nearly 30-year absence from the NASCAR Cup schedule. Ryan’s victory at the Coke 600 was special because it snapped a 59-race losing streak, and he fills listeners in on what kept him motivated during the tough time period in his Cup career. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. joins co-host Mike Davis after the greatest weekend in racing to recap all the action and speculate on what news may come out this week from NASCAR: Chase Elliott and Denny Hamlin’s on-track incident  How will NASCAR govern this situation? Emotional win for Blaney Dale’s time with NBC for the Indianapolis 500 broadcast During the Ask Jr. segment of the episode, listeners wrote in questions regarding: Drivers celebrating in the grandstand Watching old races with friends Preparing for NBC’s return to NASCAR broadcasting Restoration project updates To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. joins co-host Mike Davis after the greatest weekend in racing to recap all the action and speculate on what news may come out this week from NASCAR: Chase Elliott and Denny Hamlin’s on-track incident  How will NASCAR govern this situation? Emotional win for Blaney Dale’s time with NBC for the Indianapolis 500 broadcast During the Ask Jr. segment of the episode, listeners wrote in questions regarding: Drivers celebrating in the grandstand Watching old races with friends Preparing for NBC’s return to NASCAR broadcasting Restoration project updates To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The LAST Speed Street episode before the Greatest Spectacle in Racing is here! Conor Daly and Joey Mulinaro chat about what to expect in the upcoming 100 Days to Indy episode, Joey successfully predicting who will wave the green flag, how close the race is to being sold out, why Honda could have had concerns about Graham Rahal filling in for Stefan Wilson, and Conor answers questions from Denny Hamlin. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The LAST Speed Street episode before the Greatest Spectacle in Racing is here! Conor Daly and Joey Mulinaro chat about what to expect in the upcoming 100 Days to Indy episode, Joey successfully predicting who will wave the green flag, how close the race is to being sold out, why Honda could have had concerns about Graham Rahal filling in for Stefan Wilson, and Conor answers questions from Denny Hamlin. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis are back once again to wrap up the Dale Jr. Download week. The guys react to their stunning interview with Slugger Labbe which answered a lot of questions about the Dale Earnhardt Inc. days, and provided some closure to the turmoil the team experienced in 2005. Also, we hear from the Short Track Insider and play another round of Guess the Driver. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis are back once again to wrap up the Dale Jr. Download week. The guys react to their stunning interview with Slugger Labbe which answered a lot of questions about the Dale Earnhardt Inc. days, and provided some closure to the turmoil the team experienced in 2005. Also, we hear from the Short Track Insider and play another round of Guess the Driver. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. digs up a part of his past when he and co-host Mike Davis sit down with longtime NASCAR Crew Chief Slugger Labbe. After growing up in Maine and getting his start in the Busch North Tour ranks, Slugger hitched a ride to North Carolina with the racing Houston family and started his path on what would become a long career in the NASCAR garage. Over the years, Slugger worked for many powerhouse organizations such as Hendrick Motorsports, Yates Racing, and Richard Childress Racing. Slugger got his footing in the North Carolina NASCAR scene by working for teams in the Busch Grand National Ranks, under drivers Tommy Houston, Jeff Green, and Terry Labonte. He soon got a phone call offering him a job at Hendrick to work as a tire specialist. A few years later he got his first crack at being a crew chief through the Yates organization, calling the shots for Kenny Irwin Jr. A major topic of discussion was Slugger’s second stint at Dale Earnhardt Incorporated, where he served as Michael Waltrip’s Crew Chief starting in the middle of the 2001 season. Slugger provides a lot of never before heard stories about the famed organization and he and Dale are able to provide some closure on some of the tumultuous events that took place during that time. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. digs up a part of his past when he and co-host Mike Davis sit down with longtime NASCAR Crew Chief Slugger Labbe. After growing up in Maine and getting his start in the Busch North Tour ranks, Slugger hitched a ride to North Carolina with the racing Houston family and started his path on what would become a long career in the NASCAR garage. Over the years, Slugger worked for many powerhouse organizations such as Hendrick Motorsports, Yates Racing, and Richard Childress Racing.Slugger got his footing in the North Carolina NASCAR scene by working for teams in the Busch Grand National Ranks, under drivers Tommy Houston, Jeff Green, and Terry Labonte. He soon got a phone call offering him a job at Hendrick to work as a tire specialist. A few years later he got his first crack at being a crew chief through the Yates organization, calling the shots for Kenny Irwin Jr. A major topic of discussion was Slugger’s second stint at Dale Earnhardt Incorporated, where he served as Michael Waltrip’s Crew Chief starting in the middle of the 2001 season. Slugger provides a lot of never before heard stories about the famed organization and he and Dale are able to provide some closure on some of the tumultuous events that took place during that time. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

After NASCAR’s triumphant return to North Wilkesboro Speedway, Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis are back in the Bojangles Studio to recap the weekend. Why the weekend was very much a success, the NextGen car’s short track package problems once again were on display and provided much to discuss: The new format was designed to showcase the track Rain tire experiment during the heat races How do we fix the short-track package? The future of stock car racing at short tracks is in jeopardy During the Ask Jr. portion of the episode, listeners sent in questions regarding:  Dale’s most sought-after throwback t-shirt Weird Christmas gifts NASCAR having elimination qualifying like the Indianapolis 500 Will the return of North Wilkesboro spark other lost speedway revivals? To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

After NASCAR’s triumphant return to North Wilkesboro Speedway, Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis are back in the Bojangles Studio to recap the weekend. Why the weekend was very much a success, the NextGen car’s short track package problems once again were on display and provided much to discuss: The new format was designed to showcase the track Rain tire experiment during the heat races How do we fix the short-track package? The future of stock car racing at short tracks is in jeopardy During the Ask Jr. portion of the episode, listeners sent in questions regarding:  Dale’s most sought-after throwback t-shirt Weird Christmas gifts NASCAR having elimination qualifying like the Indianapolis 500 Will the return of North Wilkesboro spark other lost speedway revivals? To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. is fresh out of the driver’s seat after competing in the CARS Tour late model stock car event at North Wilkesboro to join his co-host Mike Davis in the Bojangles Studio. Dale recounts his experience in the race and how an on-track traffic jam led to his car being damaged, altering the rest of his race execution. Dale and Mike also discuss the impressive talent in the CARS Tour ranks and preview the upcoming NASCAR All-Star weekend. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. is fresh out of the driver’s seat after competing in the CARS Tour late model stock car event at North Wilkesboro to join his co-host Mike Davis in the Bojangles Studio. Dale recounts his experience in the race and how an on-track traffic jam led to his car being damaged, altering the rest of his race execution. Dale and Mike also discuss the impressive talent in the CARS Tour ranks and preview the upcoming NASCAR All-Star weekend. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Josh Berry joins Dale Earnhardt Jr. and Mike Davis live from Dale's bus to talk about this week's upcoming CARS Tour race at North Wilkesboro Speedway with Dale Jr. behind the wheel of the No. 3 Sun Drop car. Dale, Josh, and Mike recap Tuesday's practice session, a flashback to last year's CARS Tour race where Crew Chief Josh helped Dale Jr. finish Top 3, and the challenges some Cup Series regulars might face in this race. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Josh Berry joins Dale Earnhardt Jr. and Mike Davis live from Dale's bus to talk about this week's upcoming CARS Tour race at North Wilkesboro Speedway with Dale Jr. behind the wheel of the No. 3 Sun Drop car. Dale, Josh, and Mike recap Tuesday's practice session, a flashback to last year's CARS Tour race where Crew Chief Josh helped Dale Jr. finish Top 3, and the challenges some Cup Series regulars might face in this race. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It’s North Wilkesboro week, and before hopping behind the wheel of the JR Motorsports Sun Drop #3 Late Model Stock Car, Dale Earnhardt Jr. joins his co-host Mike Davis in Bojangles Studio for some Dirty Air. Dale is fresh from his trip to Darlington, where he was honored as one of NASCAR’s 75 Greatest Drivers. Dale and Mike discuss: Interactions with Geoff Bodine Carl Edwards’ unexpected reception  Kevin Harvick’s hot take on drivers fighting Ross Chastain and Kyle Larson’s Darlington dust-up During the Ask Jr. segment brought to you by Xfinity 10G, listeners sent in questions regarding: What video games Dale plays Which events at North Wilkesboro Dale is most excited for If Dale could ask him pets and animals one question, what would it be? Least favorite household chores To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It’s North Wilkesboro week, and before hopping behind the wheel of the JR Motorsports Sun Drop #3 Late Model Stock Car, Dale Earnhardt Jr. joins his co-host Mike Davis in Bojangles Studio for some Dirty Air. Dale is fresh from his trip to Darlington, where he was honored as one of NASCAR’s 75 Greatest Drivers. Dale and Mike discuss: Interactions with Geoff Bodine Carl Edwards’ unexpected reception  Kevin Harvick’s hot take on drivers fighting Ross Chastain and Kyle Larson’s Darlington dust-up During the Ask Jr. segment brought to you by Xfinity 10G, listeners sent in questions regarding: What video games Dale plays Which events at North Wilkesboro Dale is most excited for If Dale could ask him pets and animals one question, what would it be? Least favorite household chores To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Conor Daly and Joey Mulinaro are back on Speed Street to discuss the “spectacle” that was the Miami GP, the importance of attracting celebrities to big events, Joey hanging at the Kentucky Derby, how impactful Ross Chastain and Noah Gragson’s fight was on the sport, why IndyCar needs more intense rivalries, and answer a couple of questions from Dale Jr. and Mike Davis.  Then, the guys talk with Arrow McLaren Racing driver Felix Rosenqvist about his rise through the F1 feeder series, racing in the early days of Formula E, why it was his dream to make it to IndyCar, and transitioning from Ganassi to McLaren. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Conor Daly and Joey Mulinaro are back on Speed Street to discuss the “spectacle” that was the Miami GP, the importance of attracting celebrities to big events, Joey hanging at the Kentucky Derby, how impactful Ross Chastain and Noah Gragson’s fight was on the sport, why IndyCar needs more intense rivalries, and answer a couple of questions from Dale Jr. and Mike Davis. Then, the guys talk with Arrow McLaren Racing driver Felix Rosenqvist about his rise through the F1 feeder series, racing in the early days of Formula E, why it was his dream to make it to IndyCar, and transitioning from Ganassi to McLaren. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis reunite to close out the Dale Jr. Download week by discussing how their picks in the Denny Hamlin Bracket Challenge are faring after the first round at Kansas, watching some Macho Man Randy Savage clips and playing a couple of rounds of “Guess the Driver” and “Stump the Download” To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis reunite to close out the Dale Jr. Download week by discussing how their picks in the Denny Hamlin Bracket Challenge are faring after the first round at Kansas, watching some Macho Man Randy Savage clips and playing a couple of rounds of “Guess the Driver” and “Stump the Download” To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. reconnects with one of his fiercest rivals from his NASCAR Xfinity Series days, former crew chief Robbie Reiser. During Dale’s 1998 and ‘99 Xfinity Championship season runs, his main competition was fellow up-and-comer Matt Kenseth, for whom Reiser was calling the shots. Dale and co-host Mike Davis chat with Robbie about his family’s history in racing the short tracks of Wisconsin, where his father John was a champion dirt late model driver. Robbie recounts a hilarious story of how he came to be behind the wheel, thanks in part to wrecking his sister’s Ford Pinto in a street race with a friend.  After quickly rising through the local ranks in Southern Wisconsin, Robbie and his father John took the plunge into the world of NASCAR, moving their operation to Denver, North Carolina. After nearly losing everything due to a lack of funding, a series of events led to Robbie putting his former rival from home, Matt Kenseth, behind the wheel. They immediately found harmony and became contenders in the Xfinity Series, where they impressed the likes of Mark Martin and Jack Roush. Before long, the Reiser operation was absorbed by Roush Racing, and they took on the superstars of NASCAR Cup, where they would win a championship in 2003. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. reconnects with one of his fiercest rivals from his NASCAR Xfinity Series days, former crew chief Robbie Reiser. During Dale’s 1998 and ‘99 Xfinity Championship season runs, his main competition was fellow up-and-comer Matt Kenseth, for whom Reiser was calling the shots. Dale and co-host Mike Davis chat with Robbie about his family’s history in racing the short tracks of Wisconsin, where his father John was a champion dirt late model driver. Robbie recounts a hilarious story of how he came to be behind the wheel, thanks in part to wrecking his sister’s Ford Pinto in a street race with a friend. After quickly rising through the local ranks in Southern Wisconsin, Robbie and his father John took the plunge into the world of NASCAR, moving their operation to Denver, North Carolina. After nearly losing everything due to a lack of funding, a series of events led to Robbie putting his former rival from home, Matt Kenseth, behind the wheel. They immediately found harmony and became contenders in the Xfinity Series, where they impressed the likes of Mark Martin and Jack Roush. Before long, the Reiser operation was absorbed by Roush Racing, and they took on the superstars of NASCAR Cup, where they would win a championship in 2003. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. returns from his broadcasting stint at the Kentucky Derby to reunite with co-host Mike Davis for another episode of Dale Jr. Download. The fans have spoken, and they love what they saw at Kansas Speedway over the weekend from the superstars of NASCAR. Dale and Mike discuss the action and more: Denny Hamlin and Kyle Larson’s last-lap battle Noah Gragson and Ross Chastain’s pit road punch NASCAR’s next potential superstar Dale reports on his Kentucky Derby experience During the Ask Jr. segment, listeners sent in questions regarding: Balancing out-of-the-car obligations on race day What Dale would do if he didn’t get into racing Dale’s favorite, lesser-known music artists Dale’s love for sushi To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. returns from his broadcasting stint at the Kentucky Derby to reunite with co-host Mike Davis for another episode of Dale Jr. Download. The fans have spoken, and they love what they saw at Kansas Speedway over the weekend from the superstars of NASCAR. Dale and Mike discuss the action and more: Denny Hamlin and Kyle Larson’s last-lap battle Noah Gragson and Ross Chastain’s pit road punch NASCAR’s next potential superstar Dale reports on his Kentucky Derby experience During the Ask Jr. segment, listeners sent in questions regarding: Balancing out-of-the-car obligations on race day What Dale would do if he didn’t get into racing Dale’s favorite, lesser-known music artists Dale’s love for sushi To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The month of May is HERE and Speed Street is back with Conor Daly and Joey Mulinaro to welcome the neighborhood into the greatest month of the year. Conor and Joey break down Conor’s rough weekend in Barber including his contact with Graham Rahal during Sunday’s race, which 1980s Indy 500 segment should be brought back to the TV coverage, their thoughts on the first episode of 100 Days to Indy, and Conor shares his experience from Nitro Rallycross’s summit even in Las Vegas including meeting Dana White. Then, the guys talk with former Red Bull Junior F1 team driver and current music producer Jaime Alguersuari (@squire.music) to talk about his experience signing with Red Bull when he was 15, his quick turnaround to getting an F1 seat, the difficulties of racing at Toro Rosso, how the development drivers are programmed like machines to win, and shares his frustrations of leaving the sport. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The month of May is HERE and Speed Street is back with Conor Daly and Joey Mulinaro to welcome the neighborhood into the greatest month of the year. Conor and Joey break down Conor’s rough weekend in Barber including his contact with Graham Rahal during Sunday’s race, which 1980s Indy 500 segment should be brought back to the TV coverage, their thoughts on the first episode of 100 Days to Indy, and Conor shares his experience from Nitro Rallycross’s summit even in Las Vegas including meeting Dana White.Then, the guys talk with former Red Bull Junior F1 team driver and current music producer Jaime Alguersuari (@squire.music) to talk about his experience signing with Red Bull when he was 15, his quick turnaround to getting an F1 seat, the difficulties of racing at Toro Rosso, how the development drivers are programmed like machines to win, and shares his frustrations of leaving the sport. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It’s time to wrap up the Dale Jr. Download week as Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis reconvene to react to their interview with Bill Davis, discuss the rules of the Denny Hamlin Bracket Challenge, play another round of games, and recap the Truex brothers’ sweep during NASCAR’s weekend at the Monster Mile. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It’s time to wrap up the Dale Jr. Download week as Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis reconvene to react to their interview with Bill Davis, discuss the rules of the Denny Hamlin Bracket Challenge, play another round of games, and recap the Truex brothers’ sweep during NASCAR’s weekend at the Monster Mile. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis sit down with the man behind the famed #22 Caterpillar NASCAR Cup ride, Bill Davis. After helping Mark Martin as he came through the American Speed Association ranks, Bill went on to form a long-running race team that fielded cars in all of NASCAR’s top-three divisions. On the back of his successful Arkansas-based trucking company, Bill first entered the Xfinity Series ranks on a limited basis with Martin behind the wheel. Their quick success proved he had what it took as an owner, and despite Martin having to focus on his Cup racing endeavors, he convinced Bill to move to North Carolina and pursue a full-time chauffeur. Bill explains that the driver he sought out came in the form of Jeff Gordon, who was making the transition from the sprint car world as a promising prospect. He also gives insight to how Gordon’s 1993 departure from the team led to a young Bobby Labonte inquiring about the ride, and how he came to end up fielding the well-known #22 Maxwell House car that was forever associated with Junior Johnson. Download listeners will get a master course in what it is to own a large-scale operation in NASCAR, as Bill details the ebb and flow of his organization and why it came to an end after the 2008 season To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis sit down with the man behind the famed #22 Caterpillar NASCAR Cup ride, Bill Davis. After helping Mark Martin as he came through the American Speed Association ranks, Bill went on to form a long-running race team that fielded cars in all of NASCAR’s top-three divisions. On the back of his successful Arkansas-based trucking company, Bill first entered the Xfinity Series ranks on a limited basis with Martin behind the wheel. Their quick success proved he had what it took as an owner, and despite Martin having to focus on his Cup racing endeavors, he convinced Bill to move to North Carolina and pursue a full-time chauffeur.Bill explains that the driver he sought out came in the form of Jeff Gordon, who was making the transition from the sprint car world as a promising prospect. He also gives insight to how Gordon’s 1993 departure from the team led to a young Bobby Labonte inquiring about the ride, and how he came to end up fielding the well-known #22 Maxwell House car that was forever associated with Junior Johnson. Download listeners will get a master course in what it is to own a large-scale operation in NASCAR, as Bill details the ebb and flow of his organization and why it came to an end after the 2008 season To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis are back in the Bojangles Studio to kick off another week of the Dale Jr. Download. The guys had a wide variety of topics to catch up on and discuss, here’s what was on the docket: Denny Hamlin’s Bracket Challenge (1:30) Dale at the Kentucky Derby (10:45) Mental Health Month (20:12) Isla’s birthday bash  When the Download Gang went live on Youtube for Ask Jr., listeners sent in questions regarding: (38:00) Dale’s time with Neil deGrasse Tyson Dale and Mike’s bucket list items Fighting with crew chiefs on the radio Ross Chastain’s on-track aggression To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis are back in the Bojangles Studio to kick off another week of the Dale Jr. Download. The guys had a wide variety of topics to catch up on and discuss, here’s what was on the docket: Denny Hamlin’s Bracket Challenge (1:30) Dale at the Kentucky Derby (10:45) Mental Health Month (20:12) Isla’s birthday bash  When the Download Gang went live on Youtube for Ask Jr., listeners sent in questions regarding: (38:00) Dale’s time with Neil deGrasse Tyson Dale and Mike’s bucket list items Fighting with crew chiefs on the radio Ross Chastain’s on-track aggression To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dirty Mo Media worlds are colliding this week as Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis welcome Dirty Mo Dough host Steve Letarte to the Bojangles Studio. They discuss the sports betting podcast, Steve surprises Dale with a meaningful honor and the guys play a couple rounds of guessing games. Also, Amy joins Dale and Mike to give her account of Dale’s first core class. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dirty Mo Media worlds are colliding this week as Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis welcome Dirty Mo Dough host Steve Letarte to the Bojangles Studio. They discuss the sports betting podcast, Steve surprises Dale with a meaningful honor and the guys play a couple rounds of guessing games. Also, Amy joins Dale and Mike to give her account of Dale’s first core class. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The last time Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis sat down with Tony Stewart, he was single and embarking on a 90-plus date sprint car schedule. Now, just four years later he’s happily married, owns an NHRA team, and is a Top-Alcohol Dragster event winner. Tony fills the guys in on his efforts to get in shape and where he and his wife, fellow NHRA competitor Leah Pruett, are thinking of settling down. They also discuss the difficulty of trying to run sprint cars on a part-time basis, and how competitive the dirt ranks have become in recent years.  Another new development for Tony was the 2020 formation of the Superstar Racing Experience, in which he won the inaugural points championship. Tony explains the vision behind the racing series, which drivers have impressed him thus far, and where he envisions it going in the future. The interview also covers how Tony and Leah met and how he ended up in the drag racing world. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The last time Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis sat down with Tony Stewart, he was single and embarking on a 90-plus date sprint car schedule. Now, just four years later he’s happily married, owns an NHRA team, and is a Top-Alcohol Dragster event winner. Tony fills the guys in on his efforts to get in shape and where he and his wife, fellow NHRA competitor Leah Pruett, are thinking of settling down. They also discuss the difficulty of trying to run sprint cars on a part-time basis, and how competitive the dirt ranks have become in recent years. Another new development for Tony was the 2020 formation of the Superstar Racing Experience, in which he won the inaugural points championship. Tony explains the vision behind the racing series, which drivers have impressed him thus far, and where he envisions it going in the future. The interview also covers how Tony and Leah met and how he ended up in the drag racing world. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis return to the Bojangles Studio for another hot edition of the Dale Jr. Download. NASCAR tackled the treacherous speeds of Talladega, and Dale continued his recent streak of new adventures, so there was plenty to discuss: Dale’s first core class (2:00) The right and wrong time for A.1. Steak Sauce (19:40) Twitter’s blue checkmark debacle (26:50) Ryan Preece and Kyle Larson’s massive crash (32:00) During the Ask Jr. portion of the episode, listeners sent in questions regarding:(49:58) The best meal Dale can cook Who would win Dale and Amy’s beer pong match-up When Dale went blonde  Dale and Amy’s first date To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis return to the Bojangles Studio for another hot edition of the Dale Jr. Download. NASCAR tackled the treacherous speeds of Talladega, and Dale continued his recent streak of new adventures, so there was plenty to discuss: Dale’s first core class (2:00) The right and wrong time for A.1. Steak Sauce (19:40) Twitter’s blue checkmark debacle (26:50) Ryan Preece and Kyle Larson’s massive crash (32:00) During the Ask Jr. portion of the episode, listeners sent in questions regarding:(49:58) The best meal Dale can cook Who would win Dale and Amy’s beer pong match-up When Dale went blonde  Dale and Amy’s first date To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Talladega is known for two things: plate racing and infield parties. We'll be going over our top 4 drivers that we would invite to a Talladega Infield Party. Who are you bringing? To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Talladega is known for two things: plate racing and infield parties. We'll be going over our top 4 drivers that we would invite to a Talladega Infield Party. Who are you bringing? To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. is joined by his wife Amy and co-host Mike Davis to further discuss his recent adventure in cryotherapy. Amy arrives early to give her perspective on their date to the “cold box”, and then they fill listeners in on how it compared to their recent homemade ice bath. In solidarity, Mike spills the beans on what really happened at the end of his Grand Canyon vacation and the guys play a couple more rounds of tic-tac-toe. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. is joined by his wife Amy and co-host Mike Davis to further discuss his recent adventure in cryotherapy. Amy arrives early to give her perspective on their date to the “cold box”, and then they fill listeners in on how it compared to their recent homemade ice bath. In solidarity, Mike spills the beans on what really happened at the end of his Grand Canyon vacation and the guys play a couple more rounds of tic-tac-toe. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It was a reunion of the “8’s” this week as Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis sat down with longtime NASCAR Cup racer Hut Stricklin. After rising through the ranks of the NASCAR Dash Series, Stricklin went on to race for legendary car owners like Rod Osterlund, Bobby Allison, and Junior Johnson before arriving in the famed Stavola Brothers number-8. He would occupy the ride until 1998, and shortly after the team would dissolve, with the number 8 being sold off to Dale Earnhardt Inc. to prepare for Dale Jr.’s 1999 Cup debut.  Hut explains how he cut his teeth in the Alabama short-track racing scene, following in his father’s footsteps. They discuss how a chance encounter while driving around in Panama City would lead to Hut meeting his longtime wife Pam, daughter of racing legend Donnie Allison. Hut also fills listeners in on some of his favorite rides in Cup, how he became Tom Cruise's driving coach for the movie Days of Thunder, the story behind his career-best run at the 1996 Southern 500, and why he decided to walk away from the sport after the 2002 Bristol night race.  To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It was a reunion of the “8’s” this week as Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis sat down with longtime NASCAR Cup racer Hut Stricklin. After rising through the ranks of the NASCAR Dash Series, Stricklin went on to race for legendary car owners like Rod Osterlund, Bobby Allison, and Junior Johnson before arriving in the famed Stavola Brothers number-8. He would occupy the ride until 1998, and shortly after the team would dissolve, with the number 8 being sold off to Dale Earnhardt Inc. to prepare for Dale Jr.’s 1999 Cup debut. Hut explains how he cut his teeth in the Alabama short-track racing scene, following in his father’s footsteps. They discuss how a chance encounter while driving around in Panama City would lead to Hut meeting his longtime wife Pam, daughter of racing legend Donnie Allison. Hut also fills listeners in on some of his favorite rides in Cup, how he became Tom Cruise's driving coach for the movie Days of Thunder, the story behind his career-best run at the 1996 Southern 500, and why he decided to walk away from the sport after the 2002 Bristol night race.  To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

After a week’s vacation, Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis are back in the Bojangles Studio for some Dirty Air. Mike details his trip to the Grand Canyon with his family, and Dale Jr. chimes in about his trip to the beach in Texas to visit family. They also discuss: Dale and Amy’s recent adventure in cryotherapy  Attending a Charlotte Football Club event  How the new short track package delivered at Martinsville  What short-term changes can be made to brakes and tires When the gang went live on Youtube, listeners sent in questions about: Talladega infield parties Best girl dad advice The most popular drivers in Cup today Favorite non-racing athletes To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

After a week’s vacation, Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis are back in the Bojangles Studio for some Dirty Air. Mike details his trip to the Grand Canyon with his family, and Dale Jr. chimes in about his trip to the beach in Texas to visit family. They also discuss: Dale and Amy’s recent adventure in cryotherapy  Attending a Charlotte Football Club event  How the new short track package delivered at Martinsville  What short-term changes can be made to brakes and tires When the gang went live on Youtube, listeners sent in questions about: Talladega infield parties Best girl dad advice The most popular drivers in Cup today Favorite non-racing athletes To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It’s time once again to talk dollars and cents (and sense..) as Kelley Earnhardt Miller is back in the Bojangles Studio for the second edition of the Business of Motorsports. On this episode, she is joined by co-host Mike Davis and the President/CEO of Speedways Motorsports Inc., Marcus Smith. While Marcus has been a recurring guest on the Dale Jr. Download, this interview dives more into the nuts and bolts of how speedways operate and his business philosophy. Marcus discussed his path up the ladder at SMI and imparted advice he received from his father Bruton and former President of Charlotte Motor Speedway Humpy Wheeler. He also chats about the research that goes into keeping racing fans happy, the process of making the NASCAR schedule, track reconfigurations, and the speedways’ perspective in the ongoing negotiations surrounding the next NASCAR broadcasting deal. Listeners can expect to hear some updates on the NASCAR All-Star weekend at North Wilkesboro and what the future may hold for the legendary track. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It’s time once again to talk dollars and cents (and sense..) as Kelley Earnhardt Miller is back in the Bojangles Studio for the second edition of the Business of Motorsports. On this episode, she is joined by co-host Mike Davis and the President/CEO of Speedways Motorsports Inc., Marcus Smith. While Marcus has been a recurring guest on the Dale Jr. Download, this interview dives more into the nuts and bolts of how speedways operate and his business philosophy.Marcus discussed his path up the ladder at SMI and imparted advice he received from his father Bruton and former President of Charlotte Motor Speedway Humpy Wheeler. He also chats about the research that goes into keeping racing fans happy, the process of making the NASCAR schedule, track reconfigurations, and the speedways’ perspective in the ongoing negotiations surrounding the next NASCAR broadcasting deal. Listeners can expect to hear some updates on the NASCAR All-Star weekend at North Wilkesboro and what the future may hold for the legendary track. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

As things wind down for the week of Dirty Mo Media programming, Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis reunite to examine their illuminating interview with Tony Furr. They discuss how Tony’s insight painted a unique picture of Dale Earnhardt Sr., and detailed a lot of experiences that likely helped mold him into one of stock car racing’s greatest drivers. They also preview next week’s Business in Motorsports installment with Kelley Earnhardt-Miller and Marcus Smith, and Dale sets out to even the score with Mike in another round of tic-tac-toe. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

As things wind down for the week of Dirty Mo Media programming, Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis reunite to examine their illuminating interview with Tony Furr. They discuss how Tony’s insight painted a unique picture of Dale Earnhardt Sr., and detailed a lot of experiences that likely helped mold him into one of stock car racing’s greatest drivers. They also preview next week’s Business in Motorsports installment with Kelley Earnhardt-Miller and Marcus Smith, and Dale sets out to even the score with Mike in another round of tic-tac-toe. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Fans of Earnhardt family folklore are in for a treat today as Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis sit down with longtime NASCAR garage fixture Tony Furr. While Furr worked as crew chief in the NASCAR ranks for several years and has a couple of wins to his credit, his roots rest in the Carolina red clay’s competitive short track ranks. They chat at length about Tony’s father Henry, who had a long legacy as an influential race promoter at both Concord Speedways and Metrolina. As Tony grew up helping out in his father’s endeavors, he eventually took over his fleet of Ford and Dodge late models and went on to field entries for some of the best racers in the Carolinas, including none other than Dale Earnhardt Sr. Tony provides listeners with a unique look at the humble beginnings of Dale Sr.’s legendary race career and the struggles they faced as a team. After finding his way into the NASCAR Cup garage through stints at Hendrick Motorsports and Cale Yarborough Motorsports, Tony became known for his “innovation” on cars, and faced a few hefty penalties throughout the years. The interview digs deep into some of the “developments” that landed Tony in hot water, and a few that may have slipped under the radar. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Fans of Earnhardt family folklore are in for a treat today as Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis sit down with longtime NASCAR garage fixture Tony Furr. While Furr worked as crew chief in the NASCAR ranks for several years and has a couple of wins to his credit, his roots rest in the Carolina red clay’s competitive short track ranks. They chat at length about Tony’s father Henry, who had a long legacy as an influential race promoter at both Concord Speedways and Metrolina. As Tony grew up helping out in his father’s endeavors, he eventually took over his fleet of Ford and Dodge late models and went on to field entries for some of the best racers in the Carolinas, including none other than Dale Earnhardt Sr.Tony provides listeners with a unique look at the humble beginnings of Dale Sr.’s legendary race career and the struggles they faced as a team. After finding his way into the NASCAR Cup garage through stints at Hendrick Motorsports and Cale Yarborough Motorsports, Tony became known for his “innovation” on cars, and faced a few hefty penalties throughout the years. The interview digs deep into some of the “developments” that landed Tony in hot water, and a few that may have slipped under the radar. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It’s time once again to kick off the Dale Jr. Download week as Dale Earnhardt Jr. joins co-host Mike Davis in the Bojangles Studio for some Dirty Air. Penalties were repealed and the famed Richmond Raceway delivered, and the guys had reactions to all of it: Dale found his first late-model stock car win trophy Hendrick Motorsports penalty is amended (8:35) Josh Berry impressed with a 2nd place run (25:30) Are there fewer consequences with the NextGen car? (36:53) During the fan favorite Ask Jr. segment, (46:48) listeners sent in questions about: Dale’s “Welcome to NASCAR” moment NASCAR racing overseas again Best post-win party Best prank  To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It’s time once again to kick off the Dale Jr. Download week as Dale Earnhardt Jr. joins co-host Mike Davis in the Bojangles Studio for some Dirty Air. Penalties were repealed and the famed Richmond Raceway delivered, and the guys had reactions to all of it: Dale found his first late-model stock car win trophy Hendrick Motorsports penalty is amended (8:35) Josh Berry impressed with a 2nd place run (25:30) Are there fewer consequences with the NextGen car? (36:53) During the fan favorite Ask Jr. segment, (46:48) listeners sent in questions about: Dale’s “Welcome to NASCAR” moment NASCAR racing overseas again Best post-win party Best prank  To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Hosted by Flea, founding member and bassist of the Red Hot Chili Peppers, This Little Light is a podcast about falling in love with music. Flea interviews musical guests from all genres to discuss the teachers who guided them, the influences that inspired them, and how the lessons they learned as young musicians have shaped their creativity, resilience, and careers. This Little Light, a production of Cadence13 and Parallel, available now with new episodes dropping weekly, is available for free wherever you get your podcasts. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Hosted by Flea, founding member and bassist of the Red Hot Chili Peppers, This Little Light is a podcast about falling in love with music. Flea interviews musical guests from all genres to discuss the teachers who guided them, the influences that inspired them, and how the lessons they learned as young musicians have shaped their creativity, resilience, and careers. This Little Light, a production of Cadence13 and Parallel, available now with new episodes dropping weekly, is available for free wherever you get your podcasts. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis are back to close out the week and debrief their discussion with Chip Ganassi. They comment on how open Chip was and how he indicated that he wouldn’t be opposed to a return to NASCAR if the right opportunity presented itself. They also speak on what they learned about Chip’s relationships with his drivers outside of racing, as well as his perspective on the Ganassi Racing/Dale Earnhardt Inc. merger of 2009. Driver comments about respect and aggression in the NASCAR field are examined, and the guys strap in for another round of tic-tac-toe. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis are back to close out the week and debrief their discussion with Chip Ganassi. They comment on how open Chip was and how he indicated that he wouldn’t be opposed to a return to NASCAR if the right opportunity presented itself. They also speak on what they learned about Chip’s relationships with his drivers outside of racing, as well as his perspective on the Ganassi Racing/Dale Earnhardt Inc. merger of 2009. Driver comments about respect and aggression in the NASCAR field are examined, and the guys strap in for another round of tic-tac-toe. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis sat down this week with one of the most accomplished car owners in motorsports history: Chip Ganassi. After finding his way into the world of auto racing through slot cars and dirt bikes, Chip built his own team and established a championship-winning culture that would deliver victories in every major event in the sport, as well as countless season titles across multiple disciplines. The interview discusses Chip’s upbringing and career behind the wheel at large, which saw him rise from the Formula Ford division to being the most improved driver in CART in 1983.  Chip details his horrific crash at Michigan International Speedway in 1984 that made doctors fear for the worse and sidelined him for six months. He explains it was during his recuperation that he figured out his next move, and before the age of 30, he bought into Patrick Racing. In 1990, the team officially became Chip Ganassi Racing, and as they say, the rest is history. Chip’s team has been one of the most dominant forces in American championship car racing over the last 30 years and has grown to have a significant presence in NASCAR and sports car competition as well. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis sat down this week with one of the most accomplished car owners in motorsports history: Chip Ganassi. After finding his way into the world of auto racing through slot cars and dirt bikes, Chip built his own team and established a championship-winning culture that would deliver victories in every major event in the sport, as well as countless season titles across multiple disciplines. The interview discusses Chip’s upbringing and career behind the wheel at large, which saw him rise from the Formula Ford division to being the most improved driver in CART in 1983. Chip details his horrific crash at Michigan International Speedway in 1984 that made doctors fear for the worse and sidelined him for six months. He explains it was during his recuperation that he figured out his next move, and before the age of 30, he bought into Patrick Racing. In 1990, the team officially became Chip Ganassi Racing, and as they say, the rest is history. Chip’s team has been one of the most dominant forces in American championship car racing over the last 30 years and has grown to have a significant presence in NASCAR and sports car competition as well. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis had a ton to talk about in the Bojangles Studio today as they kicked off another week of the Dale Jr Download. The sun has set on one of the most compelling NASCAR Cup races to date, as the stars of stock car racing took on drivers from the Formula One, IMSA, and IndyCar ranks at Circuit of the Americas this past weekend. The Download crew discussed: Favorite nostalgic snacks No stage breaks at COTA Late race cautions Road course ringers’ response to the physicality of Cup racing During the fan favorite Ask Jr. segment, listeners wrote in questions about: What format should NASCAR use at the All-Star race at North Wilkesboro? Thoughts on Kurt Busch’s emotional comments in the broadcast booth Getting a song stuck in your head during a race To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis had a ton to talk about in the Bojangles Studio today as they kicked off another week of the Dale Jr Download. The sun has set on one of the most compelling NASCAR Cup races to date, as the stars of stock car racing took on drivers from the Formula One, IMSA, and IndyCar ranks at Circuit of the Americas this past weekend. The Download crew discussed: Favorite nostalgic snacks No stage breaks at COTA Late race cautions Road course ringers’ response to the physicality of Cup racing During the fan favorite Ask Jr. segment, listeners wrote in questions about: What format should NASCAR use at the All-Star race at North Wilkesboro? Thoughts on Kurt Busch’s emotional comments in the broadcast booth Getting a song stuck in your head during a race To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis reconvened in the Bojangles Studio to discuss their episode 428 interview with Ricky Stenhouse Jr. Dale explains that Ricky at age 35 is likely just now getting into his prime as a racer, and a high-profile win like the Daytona 500 can do a lot to boost a driver’s career. They also break down the incredibly diverse field for this weekend’s NASCAR Cup race at Circuit of the Americas, run through a new Earnhardt-centric tournament bracket and introduce a new segment called “Guess the Driver.” To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis reconvened in the Bojangles Studio to discuss their episode 428 interview with Ricky Stenhouse Jr. Dale explains that Ricky at age 35 is likely just now getting into his prime as a racer, and a high-profile win like the Daytona 500 can do a lot to boost a driver’s career. They also break down the incredibly diverse field for this weekend’s NASCAR Cup race at Circuit of the Americas, run through a new Earnhardt-centric tournament bracket and introduce a new segment called “Guess the Driver.” To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Bojangles Studio was filled with Daytona 500 winners this week as Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis sat down with Cup racer Ricky Stenhouse Jr. Ricky started the 2023 season off with a bang by capturing the win in the 65th running of the Great American Race. The interview takes a look at how Ricky came from humble beginnings in Mississippi, working on his father’s sprint car team to becoming a back-to-back champion in the Xfinity Series and winning the crown jewel event in stock car racing. After a stellar year in the dirt racing world, Ricky was propelled into the mainstream racing scene when he signed a development deal with Roush Racing in 2008. He fills listeners in on what his time was like with the organization and the story of his unexpected departure after the 2019 season. He also provides insight to what it's like being on a single-car team at JTG Daugherty Racing in the NextGen era. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Bojangles Studio was filled with Daytona 500 winners this week as Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis sat down with Cup racer Ricky Stenhouse Jr. Ricky started the 2023 season off with a bang by capturing the win in the 65th running of the Great American Race. The interview takes a look at how Ricky came from humble beginnings in Mississippi, working on his father’s sprint car team to becoming a back-to-back champion in the Xfinity Series and winning the crown jewel event in stock car racing.After a stellar year in the dirt racing world, Ricky was propelled into the mainstream racing scene when he signed a development deal with Roush Racing in 2008. He fills listeners in on what his time was like with the organization and the story of his unexpected departure after the 2019 season. He also provides insight to what it's like being on a single-car team at JTG Daugherty Racing in the NextGen era. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis are back for another edition of the Dale Jr. Download. After NASCAR tackled the high banks of Atlanta and the chaotic news cycle continued, there was a lot for the Download crew to discuss: Vacation from the vacation (1:00)  Denny Hamlin, Hendrick Motorsports, and Kaulig Racing are all appealing their penalties (18:00) Josh Williams stopped the show at Atlanta (literally..) (30:25) Corey LaJoie and Spire Motorsports continue to impress (41:38) When the crew turned the floor over to listeners on Youtube live, they sent in questions regarding: (53:46) What actually happens in the NASCAR hauler? Using code words on the team radio How Dale’s journey to learning the guitar is going Getting a NextGen car for the car graveyard To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis are back for another edition of the Dale Jr. Download. After NASCAR tackled the high banks of Atlanta and the chaotic news cycle continued, there was a lot for the Download crew to discuss: Vacation from the vacation (1:00)  Denny Hamlin, Hendrick Motorsports, and Kaulig Racing are all appealing their penalties (18:00) Josh Williams stopped the show at Atlanta (literally..) (30:25) Corey LaJoie and Spire Motorsports continue to impress (41:38) When the crew turned the floor over to listeners on Youtube live, they sent in questions regarding: (53:46) What actually happens in the NASCAR hauler? Using code words on the team radio How Dale’s journey to learning the guitar is going Getting a NextGen car for the car graveyard To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. returned to the Bojangles Studio and joined co-host Mike Davis to comment on this week’s major announcements in the NASCAR world. They discuss the penalties issued to Hendrick Motorsports and Kaulig Racing over modified louvers from the Phoenix tech process, and what may have led to the teams tampering with the parts.(3:40) They also unpack the penalty and fine issued to Denny Hamlin over comments he made on Monday’s episode of Actions Detrimental, and deliberate why such punishments could stifle drivers’ willingness to speak openly and transparently in the future. (24:51) Plus they preview this week's upcoming race at Atlanta (43:51) and fill out a fun bracket in honor of March Madness. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. returned to the Bojangles Studio and joined co-host Mike Davis to comment on this week’s major announcements in the NASCAR world. They discuss the penalties issued to Hendrick Motorsports and Kaulig Racing over modified louvers from the Phoenix tech process, and what may have led to the teams tampering with the parts.(3:40) They also unpack the penalty and fine issued to Denny Hamlin over comments he made on Monday’s episode of Actions Detrimental, and deliberate why such punishments could stifle drivers’ willingness to speak openly and transparently in the future. (24:51) Plus they preview this week's upcoming race at Atlanta (43:51) and fill out a fun bracket in honor of March Madness. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dirty Mo Media is proud to bring you a new Dale Jr. Download series called “Business of Motorsports”, featuring Kelley Earnhardt Miller. For the first installment, Kelley and co-host Mike Davis sit down with the President of 23XI Racing Steve Lauletta. Lauletta worked for many years in the sports marketing department for the Miller Brewing Company before serving as the President of Chip Ganassi Racing for over a decade.  Kelley and Steve discuss what the day-to-day life for the president of a NASCAR Cup team looks like, as well as the culture at 23XI Racing. Steve explains the steps the company has taken in its hiring process to ensure a unique approach to building a brand and a successful race team. They also discuss how they keep their sponsors involved with team activities and how they sell their employees on the company’s vision. Plus Steve talks about NASCAR's current charter system and the struggles or positives aspiring Cup Series teams, like JR Motorsports, face when deciding to buy a charter. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dirty Mo Media is proud to bring you a new Dale Jr. Download series called “Business of Motorsports”, featuring Kelley Earnhardt Miller. For the first installment, Kelley and co-host Mike Davis sit down with the President of 23XI Racing Steve Lauletta. Lauletta worked for many years in the sports marketing department for the Miller Brewing Company before serving as the President of Chip Ganassi Racing for over a decade. Kelley and Steve discuss what the day-to-day life for the president of a NASCAR Cup team looks like, as well as the culture at 23XI Racing. Steve explains the steps the company has taken in its hiring process to ensure a unique approach to building a brand and a successful race team. They also discuss how they keep their sponsors involved with team activities and how they sell their employees on the company’s vision. Plus Steve talks about NASCAR's current charter system and the struggles or positives aspiring Cup Series teams, like JR Motorsports, face when deciding to buy a charter. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. joins co-host Mike Davis via Zoom from his family vacation for this week’s edition of Dirty Air. The NASCAR world has concluded their west coast swing and there was plenty to unpack: Denny Hamlin speaks candidly about his dust-up with Ross Chastain  JR Motorsports’ turbulent Xfinity race at Phoenix NASCAR confiscates louvers from Hendrick Motorsports and Kaulig Racing NASCAR’s new short track package gets its first test During the Ask Jr. segment, listeners sent in questions regarding: (36:30) Competing against IndyCar racers on iRacing The worst car Dale ever won with His March Madness bracket The weekend controversy at Hickory Motor Speedway To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. joins co-host Mike Davis via Zoom from his family vacation for this week’s edition of Dirty Air. The NASCAR world has concluded their west coast swing and there was plenty to unpack: Denny Hamlin speaks candidly about his dust-up with Ross Chastain  JR Motorsports’ turbulent Xfinity race at Phoenix NASCAR confiscates louvers from Hendrick Motorsports and Kaulig Racing NASCAR’s new short track package gets its first test During the Ask Jr. segment, listeners sent in questions regarding: (36:30) Competing against IndyCar racers on iRacing The worst car Dale ever won with His March Madness bracket The weekend controversy at Hickory Motor Speedway To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

As the quest continues to find a name for the Thursday edition of the Dale Jr. Download, Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis return to the Bojangles Studio to debrief their episode 422 interview with Tyler Reddick.(2:35) Dale provided interesting insight into the journey of up-and-coming racers, and how sometimes it’s not enough to simply just be talented behind the wheel. The Short Track Insider is back to break down the grassroots racing world’s weekend events and help anticipate the upcoming season opener for the CARS Tour. (17:30) The guys also debut a new segment called “It’s Viral”, reacting to buzzworthy news items and relating their own personal experiences to the situations. (24:54) Plus Dale and Mike mull over their invite to do a Dale Jr. Download LIVE from the 24 hours of Le Mans. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

As the quest continues to find a name for the Thursday edition of the Dale Jr. Download, Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis return to the Bojangles Studio to debrief their episode 422 interview with Tyler Reddick.(2:35) Dale provided interesting insight into the journey of up-and-coming racers, and how sometimes it’s not enough to simply just be talented behind the wheel. The Short Track Insider is back to break down the grassroots racing world’s weekend events and help anticipate the upcoming season opener for the CARS Tour. (17:30) The guys also debut a new segment called “It’s Viral”, reacting to buzzworthy news items and relating their own personal experiences to the situations. (24:54) Plus Dale and Mike mull over their invite to do a Dale Jr. Download LIVE from the 24 hours of Le Mans. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis sit down with the driver of 23XI’s number-45 NASCAR Cup ride Tyler Reddick on episode 422 of the Dale Jr. Download. After impressing in the NASCAR Truck ranks driving for Brad Keselowski Racing and winning his first Xfinity Series race for Chip Ganassi Racing in 2017, Reddick took over the JR Motorsports number-9 for William Byron. He would win the 2018 season opener at Daytona and go on to capture the points championship while locking up Rookie of the Year honors.  The guys chat about how fatherhood has changed Tyler’s approach to life, and how he became a more focused, hard-working version of himself. Dale also asks for Tyler’s opinion on the recently announced new NextGen short track package for the 2023 season. Other topics of discussion also include Tyler’s transition from Richard Childress Racing to 23XI, how he feels about seeing Kyle Busch in his former car, and what a weekly routine for a NASCAR Cup driver looks like. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis sit down with the driver of 23XI’s number-45 NASCAR Cup ride Tyler Reddick on episode 422 of the Dale Jr. Download. After impressing in the NASCAR Truck ranks driving for Brad Keselowski Racing and winning his first Xfinity Series race for Chip Ganassi Racing in 2017, Reddick took over the JR Motorsports number-9 for William Byron. He would win the 2018 season opener at Daytona and go on to capture the points championship while locking up Rookie of the Year honors. The guys chat about how fatherhood has changed Tyler’s approach to life, and how he became a more focused, hard-working version of himself. Dale also asks for Tyler’s opinion on the recently announced new NextGen short track package for the 2023 season. Other topics of discussion also include Tyler’s transition from Richard Childress Racing to 23XI, how he feels about seeing Kyle Busch in his former car, and what a weekly routine for a NASCAR Cup driver looks like. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis have reunited in the Bojangles Studio to kick off a great week of the Dale Jr. Download. After a weekend that saw breaking news out of the NASCAR world, the guys unpack: Beach trip expectations and preferences (1:00) Are the NASCAR on Fox driver animations changing? (13:37) Chase Elliott’s snowboarding injury (17:10) Josh Berry’s big opportunity (31:20) When the Download gang hopped on Youtube Live to for Ask Jr., (44:07) listeners sent in questions about: Former drivers in race director positions What it's like having a driver sub in for you The angriest Dale has ever been at another driver To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis have reunited in the Bojangles Studio to kick off a great week of the Dale Jr. Download. After a weekend that saw breaking news out of the NASCAR world, the guys unpack: Beach trip expectations and preferences (1:00) Are the NASCAR on Fox driver animations changing? (13:37) Chase Elliott’s snowboarding injury (17:10) Josh Berry’s big opportunity (31:20) When the Download gang hopped on Youtube Live to for Ask Jr., (44:07) listeners sent in questions about: Former drivers in race director positions What it's like having a driver sub in for you The angriest Dale has ever been at another driver To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this Bonus episode, it’s race week for the IndyCar Series as Conor Daly and Joey Mulinaro are ready to kick off the 2023 season on Speed Street. The guys discuss NASCAR’s final race at Auto Club Speedway and why it was a mistake for IndyCar to leave the venue, their way-too-early IndyCar season predictions, reactions to F1’s Bahrain test and each team’s NFL comparison, and reveal their crucial Las Vegas advice for Producer Ben Walton’s inaugural trip to Sin City.  Then, Conor and Joey talk with seven-time champion NASCAR legend and recent IndyCar driver Jimmie Johnson about his transition from NASCAR to IndyCar, his future Indy 500 plans, the challenges of being a team owner, and he reveals his craziest championship celebration story.  To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this Bonus episode, it’s race week for the IndyCar Series as Conor Daly and Joey Mulinaro are ready to kick off the 2023 season on Speed Street. The guys discuss NASCAR’s final race at Auto Club Speedway and why it was a mistake for IndyCar to leave the venue, their way-too-early IndyCar season predictions, reactions to F1’s Bahrain test and each team’s NFL comparison, and reveal their crucial Las Vegas advice for Producer Ben Walton’s inaugural trip to Sin City. Then, Conor and Joey talk with seven-time champion NASCAR legend and recent IndyCar driver Jimmie Johnson about his transition from NASCAR to IndyCar, his future Indy 500 plans, the challenges of being a team owner, and he reveals his craziest championship celebration story.  To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this BONUS Speed Street drop, Conor Daly is back from his hectic weekend racing in the Daytona 500 and he joins Joey Mulinaro to break it down. They discuss why Conor missed qualifying, how driving his car was like riding a roller coaster in his duel, his comparisons between the Daytona 500 and Indy 500, and he shares his thoughts on what it was like drafting during the race. Then, the guys talk with actor and ARCA Series driver Frankie Muniz about his return to racing, how it felt to race at Daytona, why he thinks IndyCar is the most competitive series in the world and teases his big future racing plans.  To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this BONUS Speed Street drop, Conor Daly is back from his hectic weekend racing in the Daytona 500 and he joins Joey Mulinaro to break it down. They discuss why Conor missed qualifying, how driving his car was like riding a roller coaster in his duel, his comparisons between the Daytona 500 and Indy 500, and he shares his thoughts on what it was like drafting during the race.Then, the guys talk with actor and ARCA Series driver Frankie Muniz about his return to racing, how it felt to race at Daytona, why he thinks IndyCar is the most competitive series in the world and teases his big future racing plans.  To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis are back to discuss their episode 419 interview with six-time IndyCar Champion and 2008 Indianapolis 500 winner Scott Dixon. (2:00) They also discuss the revitalization of NASCAR RaceDay Live, which is to be hosted by Kenny Wallace at the upcoming Bristol Dirt Race. (8:45) Dale Jr. announces a new partnership between iRacing and the CARS Tour (11:45) and Hannah Newhouse is back with this week’s edition of “Short Track Insider”(16:32). Also, Mike gives listeners a preview of what to expect at the upcoming Dirty Mo Ultimate Experience at Las Vegas. (21:20) To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis are back to discuss their episode 419 interview with six-time IndyCar Champion and 2008 Indianapolis 500 winner Scott Dixon. (2:00) They also discuss the revitalization of NASCAR RaceDay Live, which is to be hosted by Kenny Wallace at the upcoming Bristol Dirt Race. (8:45) Dale Jr. announces a new partnership between iRacing and the CARS Tour (11:45) and Hannah Newhouse is back with this week’s edition of “Short Track Insider”(16:32). Also, Mike gives listeners a preview of what to expect at the upcoming Dirty Mo Ultimate Experience at Las Vegas. (21:20) To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Bojangles Studio is graced by IndyCar royalty this week as Dale Earnhardt Jr. and his co-host Mike Davis sit down with Scott Dixon. Since emerging on the American open-wheel racing scene in 1999, Dixon has written his name into the history books (between Foyt and Andretti, mind you) by winning six IndyCar championships, 52 races, and the 2008 Indianapolis 500. The interview covers Scott’s early life and introduction to auto racing, which came thanks to his father’s own racing endeavors and the family promoting a dirt track in Townsville, Australia.  Dixon seemed destined for success as he won his way through the kart and lower Formula ranks in Australia and New Zealand, but with every progression came exponential budget growth. As his parents had already mortgaged their home to support his racing endeavors, his father and some local businessmen started an investment corporation that would sell shares of Scott’s potential career earnings to help keep him on track. The result was Dixon moving stateside in the late 90s, wowing Stefan Johansson in a test at Sebring and taking a seat in the Indy Lights Series, where he would win the championship in resounding fashion in 2000, beginning his dominance in American open-wheel racing. The interview also discusses Scott’s tenure at Chip Ganassi Racing, his family life, and the comparability of stock cars and championship cars.  To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Bojangles Studio is graced by IndyCar royalty this week as Dale Earnhardt Jr. and his co-host Mike Davis sit down with Scott Dixon. Since emerging on the American open-wheel racing scene in 1999, Dixon has written his name into the history books (between Foyt and Andretti, mind you) by winning six IndyCar championships, 52 races, and the 2008 Indianapolis 500. The interview covers Scott’s early life and introduction to auto racing, which came thanks to his father’s own racing endeavors and the family promoting a dirt track in Townsville, Australia. Dixon seemed destined for success as he won his way through the kart and lower Formula ranks in Australia and New Zealand, but with every progression came exponential budget growth. As his parents had already mortgaged their home to support his racing endeavors, his father and some local businessmen started an investment corporation that would sell shares of Scott’s potential career earnings to help keep him on track. The result was Dixon moving stateside in the late 90s, wowing Stefan Johansson in a test at Sebring and taking a seat in the Indy Lights Series, where he would win the championship in resounding fashion in 2000, beginning his dominance in American open-wheel racing.The interview also discusses Scott’s tenure at Chip Ganassi Racing, his family life, and the comparability of stock cars and championship cars.  To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. and his co-host Mike Davis are reunited in the Bojangles Studio and it's time for another episode of the Dale Jr. Download. On this week’s edition of Dirty Air, the guys discuss: How to deal with parenting frustrations (2:00) The final NASCAR Cup race at the 2-mile Fontana (12:50) Possible reconfigurations of the track  Kyle Busch and Richard Childress Racing’s strong 2023 start (32:30) When the line of questioning was turned over to the listeners on Youtube Live for Ask Jr., they sent in questions about: (54:10) If social media existed in the early 2000s Who inspired Dale when he was growing up The best concerts Dale has ever been to Naming race cars To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. and his co-host Mike Davis are reunited in the Bojangles Studio and it's time for another episode of the Dale Jr. Download. On this week’s edition of Dirty Air, the guys discuss: How to deal with parenting frustrations (2:00) The final NASCAR Cup race at the 2-mile Fontana (12:50) Possible reconfigurations of the track  Kyle Busch and Richard Childress Racing’s strong 2023 start (32:30) When the line of questioning was turned over to the listeners on Youtube Live for Ask Jr., they sent in questions about: (54:10) If social media existed in the early 2000s Who inspired Dale when he was growing up The best concerts Dale has ever been to Naming race cars To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. is once again joined in the studio by his sister Kelley Earnhardt-Miller where they react to the episode 416 chat with their nephew Jeffrey Earnhardt. (3:00) Due to popular demand, the segment where Dale is quizzed on how well he knows his wife Amy is brought back for another round of questions. (9:20) Dale, Kelley, and producer Alex Timms share their most recent playlist song additions. (18:26) A new segment centered on short-track racing is introduced featuring Hannah Newhouse. (22:55) To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. is once again joined in the studio by his sister Kelley Earnhardt-Miller where they react to the episode 416 chat with their nephew Jeffrey Earnhardt. (3:00) Due to popular demand, the segment where Dale is quizzed on how well he knows his wife Amy is brought back for another round of questions. (9:20) Dale, Kelley, and producer Alex Timms share their most recent playlist song additions. (18:26) A new segment centered on short-track racing is introduced featuring Hannah Newhouse. (22:55) To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this episode of the Dale Jr. Download, it’s an Earnhardt family reunion as Dale Earnhardt Jr. is joined in the Bojangles Studio by his sister Kelley Earnhardt Miller and their nephew Jeffrey Earnhardt. Jeffrey made headlines in the stock car racing world last April when he piloted the Richard Childress No. 3 that his grandfather Dale made famous to a second-place finish in the Xfinity race at Talladega. The interview discusses his time spent in the NASCAR ranks over the last 16 years and the path that has led him to be in a full-time ride in the Xfinity Series, driving the No. 44 Chevy entry for Alpha Prime Racing. While he is an Earnhardt, Jeffrey has made it a point to earn his opportunities in racing based on hard work and merit, not his namesake. As a result, he’s followed a winding, sometimes turbulent road through the motorsports world. He provides great insight to listeners on the differences between top-dollar teams and smaller operations in NASCAR, and what he’s learned from his time spent with both. The Earnhardt family dynamic is also a topic of discussion, as well as Jeffrey’s memories of Dale Sr. and his relationship with his father Kerry. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this episode of the Dale Jr. Download, it’s an Earnhardt family reunion as Dale Earnhardt Jr. is joined in the Bojangles Studio by his sister Kelley Earnhardt Miller and their nephew Jeffrey Earnhardt. Jeffrey made headlines in the stock car racing world last April when he piloted the Richard Childress No. 3 that his grandfather Dale made famous to a second-place finish in the Xfinity race at Talladega. The interview discusses his time spent in the NASCAR ranks over the last 16 years and the path that has led him to be in a full-time ride in the Xfinity Series, driving the No. 44 Chevy entry for Alpha Prime Racing.While he is an Earnhardt, Jeffrey has made it a point to earn his opportunities in racing based on hard work and merit, not his namesake. As a result, he’s followed a winding, sometimes turbulent road through the motorsports world. He provides great insight to listeners on the differences between top-dollar teams and smaller operations in NASCAR, and what he’s learned from his time spent with both. The Earnhardt family dynamic is also a topic of discussion, as well as Jeffrey’s memories of Dale Sr. and his relationship with his father Kerry. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. is joined by his fellow NBC commentator and host of Dirty Mo Dough, Steve Letarte this week for episode 415 of the Dale Jr. Download. The guys have a lot to unpack from the Daytona 500 weekend, and topics of discussion include: Stenhouse’s big victory (3:19) Stock car racing is growing in the right direction (31:18) Race broadcast frustrations (9:28) JR Motorsports’ Daytona Recap (40:00) Previewing Fontana (49:52) When the Download crew plugged into Youtube Live for Ask Jr, listeners sent in questions regarding: (56:13) Driver-to-driver radio communication during races The new driver-eye cameras Dale running the All-Star race at North Wilkesboro Jimmie Johnson and Travis Pastrana’s Daytona runs The prospect of hosting Saturday Night Live To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. is joined by his fellow NBC commentator and host of Dirty Mo Dough, Steve Letarte this week for episode 415 of the Dale Jr. Download. The guys have a lot to unpack from the Daytona 500 weekend, and topics of discussion include: Stenhouse’s big victory (3:19) Stock car racing is growing in the right direction (31:18) Race broadcast frustrations (9:28) JR Motorsports’ Daytona Recap (40:00) Previewing Fontana (49:52) When the Download crew plugged into Youtube Live for Ask Jr, listeners sent in questions regarding: (56:13) Driver-to-driver radio communication during races The new driver-eye cameras Dale running the All-Star race at North Wilkesboro Jimmie Johnson and Travis Pastrana’s Daytona runs The prospect of hosting Saturday Night Live To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis are live from the Daytona 500 at the Chevy Experience, joined by 7-time NASCAR Champion Jimmie Johnson and Hendrick Motorsports VP of Competition Chad Knaus. Jimmie chats about what it's like being back in NASCAR, how nervous he was qualifying and more. Jimmie and Chad also discuss Garage 56 and the car that's being built that will run at Le Mans. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis are live from the Daytona 500 at the Chevy Experience, joined by 7-time NASCAR Champion Jimmie Johnson and Hendrick Motorsports VP of Competition Chad Knaus. Jimmie chats about what it's like being back in NASCAR, how nervous he was qualifying and more. Jimmie and Chad also discuss Garage 56 and the car that's being built that will run at Le Mans. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It’s time to wrap up an eventful week with Dale Earnhardt Jr. and his co-host Mike Davis. The guys react to their excellent conversation with longtime NASCAR crew member and former Dale Earnhardt Inc. employee Steve Hmiel in episode 413. (1:25) They also tee up a potential future conversation with the “Cat in the Hat” himself, Roush Fenway Keselowski Racing owner Jack Roush. There are reactions to Wednesday’s qualifying session for the Daytona 500, and Dale and Mike give their predictions for the Duels and for the winner of the Great American Race. (15:30) Listeners should also stay tuned for a quiz showing just how much Dale Jr. knows about his wife, Amy. (38:10) To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It’s time to wrap up an eventful week with Dale Earnhardt Jr. and his co-host Mike Davis. The guys react to their excellent conversation with longtime NASCAR crew member and former Dale Earnhardt Inc. employee Steve Hmiel in episode 413. (1:25) They also tee up a potential future conversation with the “Cat in the Hat” himself, Roush Fenway Keselowski Racing owner Jack Roush. There are reactions to Wednesday’s qualifying session for the Daytona 500, and Dale and Mike give their predictions for the Duels and for the winner of the Great American Race. (15:30) Listeners should also stay tuned for a quiz showing just how much Dale Jr. knows about his wife, Amy. (38:10) To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On Episode 413 of the Dale Jr. Download, Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis sit down with longtime NASCAR crew member Steve Hmiel. The Syracuse, New York native first entered the NASCAR garage in the mid-1970s when he took a job working with Tex Powell, building race cars for drivers like Benny Parsons. The interview discusses Hmiel’s first high-profile opportunity when he was hired on as a fabricator at the legendary Petty Enterprises in 1975. Hmiel gives listeners a fascinating look at the Petty operation and what the NASCAR Cup scene was like at that time.  Hmiel also provides an extraordinary perspective on the inception of Jack Roush Racing’s stock car team, which he helped form with Robin Pemberton in late 1987. Dale Jr. and Steve debrief the 1990 Cup season, where Roush driver Mark Martin squared off against Dale Earnhardt Sr. for the points championship. They also discuss events from the heyday of Dale Earnhardt Inc., where Hmiel joined as a consultant and manager in 1998. Through an organization shake-up, Steve actually ended up crew chief for Dale Jr. in the middle of the 2005 season, helping guide him to victory at Chicagoland Speedway. Dale, Mike, and Steve are able to look back at that win and what it meant to not only the team at that time but Dale’s career as a whole. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On Episode 413 of the Dale Jr. Download, Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis sit down with longtime NASCAR crew member Steve Hmiel. The Syracuse, New York native first entered the NASCAR garage in the mid-1970s when he took a job working with Tex Powell, building race cars for drivers like Benny Parsons. The interview discusses Hmiel’s first high-profile opportunity when he was hired on as a fabricator at the legendary Petty Enterprises in 1975. Hmiel gives listeners a fascinating look at the Petty operation and what the NASCAR Cup scene was like at that time. Hmiel also provides an extraordinary perspective on the inception of Jack Roush Racing’s stock car team, which he helped form with Robin Pemberton in late 1987. Dale Jr. and Steve debrief the 1990 Cup season, where Roush driver Mark Martin squared off against Dale Earnhardt Sr. for the points championship. They also discuss events from the heyday of Dale Earnhardt Inc., where Hmiel joined as a consultant and manager in 1998. Through an organization shake-up, Steve actually ended up crew chief for Dale Jr. in the middle of the 2005 season, helping guide him to victory at Chicagoland Speedway. Dale, Mike, and Steve are able to look back at that win and what it meant to not only the team at that time but Dale’s career as a whole. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis are back in the Bojangles Studio for another edition of the Dale Jr. Download. As always, it’s time to kick off the week with Dirty Air, discussing the past weekend and current events. On this episode, the guys discuss: Valentine’s Day plans (1:00) Dale’s race weekend at Florence Motor Speedway (6:48) NASCAR’s new short track/road course race package (16:00) Daytona 500 predictions (30:00) During the Ask Jr. segment (44:30) of the episode, listeners sent in questions regarding: Dale Jr’s Daytona 500 wins Super Bowl thoughts Drivers making weight  Earnhardt references in music To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis are back in the Bojangles Studio for another edition of the Dale Jr. Download. As always, it’s time to kick off the week with Dirty Air, discussing the past weekend and current events. On this episode, the guys discuss: Valentine’s Day plans (1:00) Dale’s race weekend at Florence Motor Speedway (6:48) NASCAR’s new short track/road course race package (16:00) Daytona 500 predictions (30:00) During the Ask Jr. segment (44:30) of the episode, listeners sent in questions regarding: Dale Jr’s Daytona 500 wins Super Bowl thoughts Drivers making weight  Earnhardt references in music To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The people have spoken, and Dirty Mo Media has listened: we need more Dale Jr. Download. With that in mind, welcome to our Thursday Download Wrap-Up Show. In this new addition to the Dirty Mo programming line-up, listeners can expect Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis to unpack their guest interview of the week and other current and upcoming events. This week, the guys discussed the following: Sterling Marlin’s appearance on episode 410 of the Download A follow-up call with Sterling, discussing some things we missed Conor Daly to attempt the Daytona 500 Kyle Busch’s recent legal woes Kyle Larson to attempt the 2024 Indianapolis 500 Dale’s upcoming late-model race Super Bowl Picks To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The people have spoken, and Dirty Mo Media has listened: we need more Dale Jr. Download. With that in mind, welcome to our Thursday Download Wrap-Up Show. In this new addition to the Dirty Mo programming line-up, listeners can expect Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis to unpack their guest interview of the week and other current and upcoming events. This week, the guys discussed the following: Sterling Marlin’s appearance on episode 410 of the Download A follow-up call with Sterling, discussing some things we missed Conor Daly to attempt the Daytona 500 Kyle Busch’s recent legal woes Kyle Larson to attempt the 2024 Indianapolis 500 Dale’s upcoming late-model race Super Bowl Picks To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It’s time once again to sit down with a guest in the Bojangles Studio, and Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis have decided to kick off the year with a bang. The highly-anticipated first interview of The Dale Jr. Download’s 11th season is none other than Columbia, Tennessee’s Sterling Marlin. Marlin has been one of the most requested visitors by Download listeners, as he was a fixture in the NASCAR Cup garage for nearly four decades and a fan favorite amongst his class of competitors. Sterling truly embodies the humble farmer to stock car racing star trajectory that NASCAR was founded on. In fact, he traveled from his family’s 600-acre farm which is located about an hour southwest of Nashville. It was on that very farm that he learned the ethics of hard work from his father Clifton “Coo Coo” Marlin. Hard working principles made Coo Coo a force to be reckoned with in the NASCAR Sportsman ranks of the ‘60s and ‘70s, which carried over to him being one of the best-running independent outfits on the Cup circuit. From the age of 12, Sterling found a place on his father’s race team, eventually rising to tire changer and crew chief.  His initial attempt at a cure came in the form of a ‘64 Chevelle, which he and his cousin drove from home straight to the race track; no tags, no lights, no worries. A few years later, he made a more proper entrance into the racing world, entering a NASCAR Sportsman race at the famed Nashville Fairgrounds. A couple racing weekends later, he found himself sitting in the driver’s seat of his father’s Cup ride, ready to take on the likes of Richard Petty, Cale Yarborough, and the other stars of the 1970s.  And when the opportunity for a full-time Cup ride came knocking from Roger Hamby in 1983, Sterling rose to the occasion in the same fashion, finishing 19th in the point standings and winning Rookie of the Year honors.  Consistency seemed to be a key to success for Sterling, as a signed contract to be chauffeur of Billy Hagan’s championship-winning number-44 Piedmont Airlines ride brought about his breakthrough season in 1988. A 10th-place points effort made other car owners in the garage take notice, and the tobacco farmer from Columbia had established himself as a more than capable wheel-turner. Sterling had stints driving for some of the most steadiest outfits in the stock car scene, including Junior Johnson, Hoss Ellington, the Stravola Brothers, and Earl Sadler, but none could help him get over the hump from solid finisher to race winner. That is, until 1994.  Armed with a new ride at Morgan-McClure, in their bright-yellow Kodak number-4, Sterling set out on the season lightning quick, thanks in part to Dr. Gas’ revolutionary “x-pipe” exhaust system. The few extra horsepower was enough to edge Sterling ahead when it mattered most, making him the winner of the Daytona 500. After finishing second and coming close so many times, he was finally a race winner, in the sport’s biggest event at that. Once the glass was broken, Sterling returned the following year and repeated the feat, giving him the distinct honor of being the only driver in history to notch his first two victories in the Great American Race. He would go on to finish 3rd in the 1995 season points, certifying him as one of the top talents in the division.  Sterling would go on to have continued success in NASCAR, including a near-championship run in 2002 before retiring after the ‘09 season. The discussion covers the highs and lows of his career, as well as his 2012 diagnosis of Parkinsonism and his navigation of the disorder in his day-to-day life. Tune in to gain a unique perspective on one of stock car racing’s most memorable characters on episode 410 of the Dale Jr. Download. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It’s time once again to sit down with a guest in the Bojangles Studio, and Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis have decided to kick off the year with a bang. The highly-anticipated first interview of The Dale Jr. Download’s 11th season is none other than Columbia, Tennessee’s Sterling Marlin. Marlin has been one of the most requested visitors by Download listeners, as he was a fixture in the NASCAR Cup garage for nearly four decades and a fan favorite amongst his class of competitors.Sterling truly embodies the humble farmer to stock car racing star trajectory that NASCAR was founded on. In fact, he traveled from his family’s 600-acre farm which is located about an hour southwest of Nashville. It was on that very farm that he learned the ethics of hard work from his father Clifton “Coo Coo” Marlin. Hard working principles made Coo Coo a force to be reckoned with in the NASCAR Sportsman ranks of the ‘60s and ‘70s, which carried over to him being one of the best-running independent outfits on the Cup circuit. From the age of 12, Sterling found a place on his father’s race team, eventually rising to tire changer and crew chief. His initial attempt at a cure came in the form of a ‘64 Chevelle, which he and his cousin drove from home straight to the race track; no tags, no lights, no worries. A few years later, he made a more proper entrance into the racing world, entering a NASCAR Sportsman race at the famed Nashville Fairgrounds. A couple racing weekends later, he found himself sitting in the driver’s seat of his father’s Cup ride, ready to take on the likes of Richard Petty, Cale Yarborough, and the other stars of the 1970s. And when the opportunity for a full-time Cup ride came knocking from Roger Hamby in 1983, Sterling rose to the occasion in the same fashion, finishing 19th in the point standings and winning Rookie of the Year honors. Consistency seemed to be a key to success for Sterling, as a signed contract to be chauffeur of Billy Hagan’s championship-winning number-44 Piedmont Airlines ride brought about his breakthrough season in 1988. A 10th-place points effort made other car owners in the garage take notice, and the tobacco farmer from Columbia had established himself as a more than capable wheel-turner. Sterling had stints driving for some of the most steadiest outfits in the stock car scene, including Junior Johnson, Hoss Ellington, the Stravola Brothers, and Earl Sadler, but none could help him get over the hump from solid finisher to race winner. That is, until 1994. Armed with a new ride at Morgan-McClure, in their bright-yellow Kodak number-4, Sterling set out on the season lightning quick, thanks in part to Dr. Gas’ revolutionary “x-pipe” exhaust system. The few extra horsepower was enough to edge Sterling ahead when it mattered most, making him the winner of the Daytona 500. After finishing second and coming close so many times, he was finally a race winner, in the sport’s biggest event at that. Once the glass was broken, Sterling returned the following year and repeated the feat, giving him the distinct honor of being the only driver in history to notch his first two victories in the Great American Race. He would go on to finish 3rd in the 1995 season points, certifying him as one of the top talents in the division. Sterling would go on to have continued success in NASCAR, including a near-championship run in 2002 before retiring after the ‘09 season. The discussion covers the highs and lows of his career, as well as his 2012 diagnosis of Parkinsonism and his navigation of the disorder in his day-to-day life. Tune in to gain a unique perspective on one of stock car racing’s most memorable characters on episode 410 of the Dale Jr. Download. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

As the green flag waves on season 11, Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis are back in the Bojangles studio for episode 409 of the Dale Jr. Download. With a new format in store for the 2023 season, which will see three episodes drop a week on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays, the gang decided to start things off with some Dirty Air. There was a lot to catch up on from the off-season, including the launch of some new Dirty Mo Media shows, personal events, and of course a preview of the upcoming year in Cup racing. Listeners can also expect discussion about: The first Download guest of the year The Clash in the Coliseum Dale’s next late-model event The return of Jimmie Johnson Kevin Harvick’s retirement Tuesday episodes will also feature the fan-favorite Ask Jr. segment, and this week listeners wrote in questions about: Dale’s recent experience during the NASCAR Hall of Fame ceremony How mechanics can get into NASCAR The possibility of a timed/endurance-style NASCAR race Off-season adventures at home To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

As the green flag waves on season 11, Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis are back in the Bojangles studio for episode 409 of the Dale Jr. Download. With a new format in store for the 2023 season, which will see three episodes drop a week on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays, the gang decided to start things off with some Dirty Air.There was a lot to catch up on from the off-season, including the launch of some new Dirty Mo Media shows, personal events, and of course a preview of the upcoming year in Cup racing. Listeners can also expect discussion about: The first Download guest of the year The Clash in the Coliseum Dale’s next late-model event The return of Jimmie Johnson Kevin Harvick’s retirement Tuesday episodes will also feature the fan-favorite Ask Jr. segment, and this week listeners wrote in questions about: Dale’s recent experience during the NASCAR Hall of Fame ceremony How mechanics can get into NASCAR The possibility of a timed/endurance-style NASCAR race Off-season adventures at home To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Coming Feb. 6: Actions Detrimental with Denny Hamlin will give listeners an unfiltered, honest and bold perspective from NASCAR’s most polarizing figure. Hamlin and co-host Jared Allen will unpack the previous race and look forward to upcoming events throughout the Cup Series with candid commentary and insights from the driver’s seat. Here’s a preview of what you can expect from this dynamic new show. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Coming Feb. 6: Actions Detrimental with Denny Hamlin will give listeners an unfiltered, honest and bold perspective from NASCAR’s most polarizing figure. Hamlin and co-host Jared Allen will unpack the previous race and look forward to upcoming events throughout the Cup Series with candid commentary and insights from the driver’s seat. Here’s a preview of what you can expect from this dynamic new show. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

At the heart of every legendary broadcasting voice lies one indescribable characteristic that sets them apart from others. It’s a quality that can’t be faked or fabricated in any way and lives deep in their own soul. It’s passion. For decades, Ken Squier did what he loved, no question about it. In the final installment of our Next Level conversation with Ken Squier, host Andrew Kurland and Squier discuss the legacy he has left behind on the sport. Squier shares what it means to be in the NASCAR Hall of Fame, gives his thoughts on NASCAR today and reveals which popular 1970s movie he thought was a terrible idea.  Squier closes the interview by providing Kurland with advice on how to pursue a career in motorsports broadcasting and shares what the state of Vermont means to him.  Squier told the stories of heroes that were daring enough to jump in a race car and battle it out at high speeds. However, a story is only as good as the storyteller, and we were lucky to hear a few from one of the best. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

At the heart of every legendary broadcasting voice lies one indescribable characteristic that sets them apart from others. It’s a quality that can’t be faked or fabricated in any way and lives deep in their own soul.It’s passion.For decades, Ken Squier did what he loved, no question about it. In the final installment of our Next Level conversation with Ken Squier, host Andrew Kurland and Squier discuss the legacy he has left behind on the sport. Squier shares what it means to be in the NASCAR Hall of Fame, gives his thoughts on NASCAR today and reveals which popular 1970s movie he thought was a terrible idea. Squier closes the interview by providing Kurland with advice on how to pursue a career in motorsports broadcasting and shares what the state of Vermont means to him. Squier told the stories of heroes that were daring enough to jump in a race car and battle it out at high speeds. However, a story is only as good as the storyteller, and we were lucky to hear a few from one of the best. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

After a thrilling start to NASCAR’s television career, how do you keep the momentum rolling? For starters, you need a field full of those 'don’t give a damn drivers' daring enough to put on a show at high speeds on high banks across America. Petty, Earnhardt, and Yarborough made names and careers out of their reputation on and off the track and were the product of Big Bill France’s dream to put on a series that was at the top of everybody’s minds. In chapter 6 of Next Level with Ken Squier, host Andrew Kurland and Squier discuss NASCAR in the ’80s and 90s. We learn what MRN's first office looked like, discuss whether or not racing is in the entertainment business, and hear more legendary Cale Yarborough stories.  To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

After a thrilling start to NASCAR’s television career, how do you keep the momentum rolling?For starters, you need a field full of those 'don’t give a damn drivers' daring enough to put on a show at high speeds on high banks across America. Petty, Earnhardt, and Yarborough made names and careers out of their reputation on and off the track and were the product of Big Bill France’s dream to put on a series that was at the top of everybody’s minds.In chapter 6 of Next Level with Ken Squier, host Andrew Kurland and Squier discuss NASCAR in the ’80s and 90s. We learn what MRN's first office looked like, discuss whether or not racing is in the entertainment business, and hear more legendary Cale Yarborough stories.  To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It took a perfect storm to propel NASCAR into quite literally the next level of entertainment in America. You needed heroes, villains, and above all, something for people to talk about. The 1979 Daytona 500 cooked up quite the storm, and left millions of new fans watching at home hungry for more.  The two men on the call that day were none other than Ken Squier and David Hobbs. In Chapter 5 of Next Level, we’ll hear first-hand stories from both of them. Get ready to relive the legendary 1979 Daytona 500 with the two voices that kept all of America on the edge of their seats.  To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It took a perfect storm to propel NASCAR into quite literally the next level of entertainment in America. You needed heroes, villains, and above all, something for people to talk about. The 1979 Daytona 500 cooked up quite the storm, and left millions of new fans watching at home hungry for more. The two men on the call that day were none other than Ken Squier and David Hobbs. In Chapter 5 of Next Level, we’ll hear first-hand stories from both of them.Get ready to relive the legendary 1979 Daytona 500 with the two voices that kept all of America on the edge of their seats.  To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It takes a special type of person to venture out and do things many others haven't. For some, it's the thrill of the risk that fuels their fire. For others, it simply just fits their personality. The extraordinary starts with ordinary people doing extraordinary things. This is where Ken Squier and Cale Yarborough fit into the story.   In this fourth installment of Next Level, host Andrew Kurland, and Squier pick apart his famous quote "common man doing uncommon deeds." The two talk about the first flag-to-flag broadcast, which aired in 1971 featuring Ken as a pit reporter for ABC.  They also discuss the birth of in-car cameras, and a never-before-heard story featuring Cale Yarbrough and his pet bear, Susie. You heard it right, a BEAR. Get ready.  To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It takes a special type of person to venture out and do things many others haven't. For some, it's the thrill of the risk that fuels their fire. For others, it simply just fits their personality.The extraordinary starts with ordinary people doing extraordinary things. This is where Ken Squier and Cale Yarborough fit into the story.  In this fourth installment of Next Level, host Andrew Kurland, and Squier pick apart his famous quote "common man doing uncommon deeds." The two talk about the first flag-to-flag broadcast, which aired in 1971 featuring Ken as a pit reporter for ABC. They also discuss the birth of in-car cameras, and a never-before-heard story featuring Cale Yarbrough and his pet bear, Susie. You heard it right, a BEAR. Get ready.  To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Bill France Sr. set out penniless with a dream to start a sport where the automobile was the star. His dream allowed names like Petty and Earnhardt to take center stage on the high banks of new, more daring tracks like the monster of Daytona International Speedway.  How do you sell a dream this grand? You need people to buy into your vision as much or more than you. This is where Ken Squier comes into play.  In Chapter Three of Next Level with Andrew Kurland, the two talk about Bill France Sr.'s early visions for modern-day NASCAR. They discuss the rise of the Petty name and what the earliest motorsports broadcasts looked like. It takes brave people with bold dreams to make big things happen, and Squier's stories tell just that.  To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Bill France Sr. set out penniless with a dream to start a sport where the automobile was the star. His dream allowed names like Petty and Earnhardt to take center stage on the high banks of new, more daring tracks like the monster of Daytona International Speedway. How do you sell a dream this grand? You need people to buy into your vision as much or more than you. This is where Ken Squier comes into play. In Chapter Three of Next Level with Andrew Kurland, the two talk about Bill France Sr.'s early visions for modern-day NASCAR. They discuss the rise of the Petty name and what the earliest motorsports broadcasts looked like. It takes brave people with bold dreams to make big things happen, and Squier's stories tell just that.  To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Nestled in the hills of Barre, Vermont lies the quarter-mile, high-banked, asphalt speed bowl known only to fans as Thunder Road. 8,000 people gather every Thursday night to witness the best racing the state of Vermont has to offer. The roots of this iconic race track can be traced back to the one and only, Ken Squier. In the third installment of Next Level with Ken Squier, host Andrew Kurland and Squier discuss the origins of Thunder Road, which first took shape when Squier was only in his mid-twenties. Squier discusses the post-war era and shares stories of soldiers returning home, who weren’t going to “fool around or fuss with anything that didn’t have teeth in it.” These are the stories of the heroes and daredevils that made up the early days of short-track racing in Vermont and across the country. To race, you have to be daring, bold, and brave enough to die.  To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Nestled in the hills of Barre, Vermont lies the quarter-mile, high-banked, asphalt speed bowl known only to fans as Thunder Road. 8,000 people gather every Thursday night to witness the best racing the state of Vermont has to offer. The roots of this iconic race track can be traced back to the one and only, Ken Squier.In the third installment of Next Level with Ken Squier, host Andrew Kurland and Squier discuss the origins of Thunder Road, which first took shape when Squier was only in his mid-twenties. Squier discusses the post-war era and shares stories of soldiers returning home, who weren’t going to “fool around or fuss with anything that didn’t have teeth in it.”These are the stories of the heroes and daredevils that made up the early days of short-track racing in Vermont and across the country. To race, you have to be daring, bold, and brave enough to die.  To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

At the heart of every great NASCAR story is the storyteller himself, and there are few as iconic as the legendary voice of Ken Squier. For two days the Dirty Mo Media crew set out to Squier’s home in Waterbury, Vermont to hear stories from the NASCAR Hall-of-Famer.  In this first installment of Andrew Kurland’s Next Level conversation with Ken Squier, the two discuss Ken’s upbringing as a young kid in Vermont. Ken shares stories of lessons learned from the great Chirs Economaki, his early days broadcasting out of WDEV, his first memories of racing, and the role exaggeration played in his play-by-play career.  After time away from the NASCAR spotlight, Squier is back to share his story in this multi-chapter series of Next Level.  To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

At the heart of every great NASCAR story is the storyteller himself, and there are few as iconic as the legendary voice of Ken Squier. For two days the Dirty Mo Media crew set out to Squier’s home in Waterbury, Vermont to hear stories from the NASCAR Hall-of-Famer. In this first installment of Andrew Kurland’s Next Level conversation with Ken Squier, the two discuss Ken’s upbringing as a young kid in Vermont. Ken shares stories of lessons learned from the great Chirs Economaki, his early days broadcasting out of WDEV, his first memories of racing, and the role exaggeration played in his play-by-play career. After time away from the NASCAR spotlight, Squier is back to share his story in this multi-chapter series of Next Level.  To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

A special podcast feed drop of Dirty Mo Media's newest show, Dirty Mo LIVE! Catch the live stream or replay on Dirty Mo Media's YouTube channel. And now, you can follow the Dirty Mo LIVE podcast feed wherever you listen to your podcasts. The fourth stream of Dirty Mo Live figures to be the best one yet. Dale Jr. stops by fresh off his top 10 in the South Carolina 400 at Florence. TJ is here to provide the spotter's take on the chaos. We pulled Josh Berry away from fixing the Florence car (that he's supposed to racing this weekend) to help us preview the Thanksgiving Classic at Southern National Speedway. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

A special podcast feed drop of Dirty Mo Media's newest show, Dirty Mo LIVE! Catch the live stream or replay on Dirty Mo Media's YouTube channel. And now, you can follow the Dirty Mo LIVE podcast feed wherever you listen to your podcasts. The fourth stream of Dirty Mo Live figures to be the best one yet. Dale Jr. stops by fresh off his top 10 in the South Carolina 400 at Florence. TJ is here to provide the spotter's take on the chaos. We pulled Josh Berry away from fixing the Florence car (that he's supposed to racing this weekend) to help us preview the Thanksgiving Classic at Southern National Speedway. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On the season finale of the Dale Jr. Download, Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis sit down with one of their most highly anticipated guests to date: former NASCAR CEO Brian France. In 2002, RJ Reynolds announced it would be pulling its Winston branding as a title sponsor for the NASCAR Cup series after 30 years. Not long after, Bill France Jr., the CEO who oversaw that era stepped down from his position of power. With the organization at a crossroads, Brian arose to the occasion and helped fill the void of his father’s absence while ushering the premiere stock car division into its modern-day state.  From 2003 to ‘18, many changes took place on Brian’s watch that molded NASCAR racing into the motorsport that we watch today. The Dirty Mo crew and listeners alike were eager to have Brian to the Bojangles Studio hot seat to discuss what he felt was a success and a miss during his tenure at the helm of the organization. His education in running an empire began at an early age while growing up in the shadow of his father Bill Jr. A place in the shadows of giants is something that Dale Jr. and Brian can relate to, and the two recall how their fathers were certainly allies but never close friends. Once of age and eager to work, Brian took a position working at Talladega Superspeedway. He became fascinated with the business side of racing and in the 1990s he went on to manage Tucson Raceway Park and work at NASCAR’s Los Angeles office. His tasks included capitalizing on NASCAR’s flourishing west coast fanbase while strengthening its connection to the entertainment capital of the world, which resulted in NASCAR’s integration into the mainstream television and film industry. After helping to negotiate NASCAR’s first national television package deal in 2001, the stage was set for Brian to try his hand at leading the sanctioning body. Dale compares Brian and Bill Jr.’s leadership styles and what it's like having one strong character making decisions versus an entire committee of voices. Brian says he recognizes that many of the changes NASCAR has gone through over the last two decades may be alienating to longtime fans, but insists that the intention was always to promote growth through progression. He explains that NASCAR leadership often looks into untapped markets and develops strategies to help bring new fans into the fold including races in new markets, its diversity programs, and collaborative efforts with other sports and business entities. In 2004, NASCAR along with its new title sponsor partner Nextel introduced the Chase for Cup playoffs system, which would radically alter the traditional points championship structure. Brian explains that the desire to create “big moments” in points racing inspired the inclusion of cutoff lines and races. They discuss how the Playoffs field was expanded from 10 to now 16 and the events that occurred over the years to influence those decisions. Brian admits that a lot of the structuring came from looking at how other sports leagues officiate their playoff systems and what effects it has on their respective championships. Since Dale was an active competitor during Brian’s time in charge, he was anxious to get his insight on one of the most polarizing developments in the last 20 years: the Car of Tomorrow. Making its debut in 2007, the CoT was intended to increase competition while improving safety initiatives, but it became regarded as an inferior machine by drivers and fans. Brian admits that he viewed the car as a mistake and wishes that he would have gotten more input from the drivers and teams in its manufacturing.  The conversation also touches on the Jeremy Mayfield scandal, the 2013 Regular Season finale at Richmond, Brian’s lack of presence at the races, and his 2018 arrest. Download listeners can expect a candid look at one of motorsports most influential leaders in modern history, as well as insight into the decision-making that shifted NASCAR into a household name. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On the season finale of the Dale Jr. Download, Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis sit down with one of their most highly anticipated guests to date: former NASCAR CEO Brian France. In 2002, RJ Reynolds announced it would be pulling its Winston branding as a title sponsor for the NASCAR Cup series after 30 years. Not long after, Bill France Jr., the CEO who oversaw that era stepped down from his position of power. With the organization at a crossroads, Brian arose to the occasion and helped fill the void of his father’s absence while ushering the premiere stock car division into its modern-day state. From 2003 to ‘18, many changes took place on Brian’s watch that molded NASCAR racing into the motorsport that we watch today. The Dirty Mo crew and listeners alike were eager to have Brian to the Bojangles Studio hot seat to discuss what he felt was a success and a miss during his tenure at the helm of the organization. His education in running an empire began at an early age while growing up in the shadow of his father Bill Jr. A place in the shadows of giants is something that Dale Jr. and Brian can relate to, and the two recall how their fathers were certainly allies but never close friends.Once of age and eager to work, Brian took a position working at Talladega Superspeedway. He became fascinated with the business side of racing and in the 1990s he went on to manage Tucson Raceway Park and work at NASCAR’s Los Angeles office. His tasks included capitalizing on NASCAR’s flourishing west coast fanbase while strengthening its connection to the entertainment capital of the world, which resulted in NASCAR’s integration into the mainstream television and film industry. After helping to negotiate NASCAR’s first national television package deal in 2001, the stage was set for Brian to try his hand at leading the sanctioning body.Dale compares Brian and Bill Jr.’s leadership styles and what it's like having one strong character making decisions versus an entire committee of voices. Brian says he recognizes that many of the changes NASCAR has gone through over the last two decades may be alienating to longtime fans, but insists that the intention was always to promote growth through progression. He explains that NASCAR leadership often looks into untapped markets and develops strategies to help bring new fans into the fold including races in new markets, its diversity programs, and collaborative efforts with other sports and business entities.In 2004, NASCAR along with its new title sponsor partner Nextel introduced the Chase for Cup playoffs system, which would radically alter the traditional points championship structure. Brian explains that the desire to create “big moments” in points racing inspired the inclusion of cutoff lines and races. They discuss how the Playoffs field was expanded from 10 to now 16 and the events that occurred over the years to influence those decisions. Brian admits that a lot of the structuring came from looking at how other sports leagues officiate their playoff systems and what effects it has on their respective championships.Since Dale was an active competitor during Brian’s time in charge, he was anxious to get his insight on one of the most polarizing developments in the last 20 years: the Car of Tomorrow. Making its debut in 2007, the CoT was intended to increase competition while improving safety initiatives, but it became regarded as an inferior machine by drivers and fans. Brian admits that he viewed the car as a mistake and wishes that he would have gotten more input from the drivers and teams in its manufacturing. The conversation also touches on the Jeremy Mayfield scandal, the 2013 Regular Season finale at Richmond, Brian’s lack of presence at the races, and his 2018 arrest. Download listeners can expect a candid look at one of motorsports most influential leaders in modern history, as well as insight into the decision-making that shifted NASCAR into a household name. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Coming soon: The second installment of Dirty Mo Media's Next Level with Andrew Kurland. Andrew sits down with legendary broadcaster Ken Squier. The Dirty Mo crew traveled up to Waterbury, Vermont, and spent two days with Squier and talked about everything from the early days of NASCAR, to the iconic 1979 Daytona 500, and even why Vermont is "the greatest place on Earth." Here is a preview of Andrew's conversation with Ken Squier. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Coming soon: The second installment of Dirty Mo Media's Next Level with Andrew Kurland. Andrew sits down with legendary broadcaster Ken Squier. The Dirty Mo crew traveled up to Waterbury, Vermont, and spent two days with Squier and talked about everything from the early days of NASCAR, to the iconic 1979 Daytona 500, and even why Vermont is "the greatest place on Earth." Here is a preview of Andrew's conversation with Ken Squier. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In short-track racing, one driver’s name has been synonymous with creating headlines and capturing the attention of the motorsports world. On this week’s episode of The Dale Jr. Download, Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis sit down with that man: the legendary Scott Bloomquist. After arriving in Eastern Tennessee in the mid-1980s and taking the dirt late model scene by storm, Scott rose to prominence in the early ‘90s and has gone on to be regarded as one of the greatest race drivers of all time.  Dale asks Scott about the moment he realized he had become larger than life, and he references the 1988 running of the premiere dirt late model racing event, Eldora Speedway’s World 100. Scott explains that he had never been to the track before and found it intimidating, and upon learning that there were over 250 other entrants for the race he about decided to head back to Knoxville to compete closer to home. He ultimately was convinced to stay by a Hoosier Tire representative, and in the big showdown, Scott defeated late model standout Jeff Purvis, who was aiming for his fourth win in a row at this event.  Bloomquist is well known for his eccentric style and rockstar-like appearance. After being born in Iowa and spending the beginning of his childhood there, his father Ron decided to leave his electrician trade to pursue becoming a pilot. The career transition brought the family to California, where Scott discovered a love for surfing and fast cars. Another defining quality is Scott’s tendency to rebel, and when his father stated “I will never have no long-haired son”, well, you can guess where this is going. As a result, the image of Scott Bloomquist race fans have known for the last four decades was born, and doesn’t appear to be going anywhere anytime soon. The origin of Scott’s legendary racing career is in part thanks to his father’s interest in trying the craft out himself. After seeing a co-worker race at the local raceway in Corona, Ron bought an asphalt car and got it ready for dirt competition. One attempt was enough, and he quickly realized it wasn’t for him. He then offered Scott the opportunity to get behind the wheel, and the 16-year-old jumped at the chance to go fast. He ran well enough in his maiden voyage that the two decided to pursue the sport further, but when the car Ron built for Scott was destroyed in a crash at Manzanita Speedway, he told Scott he wasn’t spending a penny more. From then on, Scott was independent in his racing efforts. Scott tells the story of how his family arrived in Mooresburg, Tennessee on a plot of land located on the cusp of the Cherokee River. When Ron began looking for property to retire to in the early 1980s, the family originally looked at property in Oregon. But Scott, who was fully immersed in the dirt racing scene by that point, recognized that Oregon’s racing was outdated and suggested Tennessee, where Robert Smawley and his NDRA outfit were operating and paying $10,000 to win. Upon arriving, Scott found success early at Kingsport Speedway and used the momentum to propel himself to the top of the division, where he has gone on to win more marquee events than any other driver in history. However, Scott’s time at the top has not been without controversy and the interview touches on his various legal issues and suspensions over the years. Scott is open on the subject and explains how his appearance and success have led others to assume the worst about him. The infamy that came with the arrests boosted Scott’s reputation and ultimately led to him becoming a colossal figure in the sport. Finally, no interview with Scott Bloomquist would be complete without discussing aliens and extraterrestrial beings. Scott details his neighbor's encounter and even touches on an experience of his own. Download listeners should tune in for an unforgettable episode and a peak into the mind of one of racing’s most iconic figures.  To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In short-track racing, one driver’s name has been synonymous with creating headlines and capturing the attention of the motorsports world. On this week’s episode of The Dale Jr. Download, Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis sit down with that man: the legendary Scott Bloomquist. After arriving in Eastern Tennessee in the mid-1980s and taking the dirt late model scene by storm, Scott rose to prominence in the early ‘90s and has gone on to be regarded as one of the greatest race drivers of all time. Dale asks Scott about the moment he realized he had become larger than life, and he references the 1988 running of the premiere dirt late model racing event, Eldora Speedway’s World 100. Scott explains that he had never been to the track before and found it intimidating, and upon learning that there were over 250 other entrants for the race he about decided to head back to Knoxville to compete closer to home. He ultimately was convinced to stay by a Hoosier Tire representative, and in the big showdown, Scott defeated late model standout Jeff Purvis, who was aiming for his fourth win in a row at this event. Bloomquist is well known for his eccentric style and rockstar-like appearance. After being born in Iowa and spending the beginning of his childhood there, his father Ron decided to leave his electrician trade to pursue becoming a pilot. The career transition brought the family to California, where Scott discovered a love for surfing and fast cars. Another defining quality is Scott’s tendency to rebel, and when his father stated “I will never have no long-haired son”, well, you can guess where this is going. As a result, the image of Scott Bloomquist race fans have known for the last four decades was born, and doesn’t appear to be going anywhere anytime soon.The origin of Scott’s legendary racing career is in part thanks to his father’s interest in trying the craft out himself. After seeing a co-worker race at the local raceway in Corona, Ron bought an asphalt car and got it ready for dirt competition. One attempt was enough, and he quickly realized it wasn’t for him. He then offered Scott the opportunity to get behind the wheel, and the 16-year-old jumped at the chance to go fast. He ran well enough in his maiden voyage that the two decided to pursue the sport further, but when the car Ron built for Scott was destroyed in a crash at Manzanita Speedway, he told Scott he wasn’t spending a penny more. From then on, Scott was independent in his racing efforts.Scott tells the story of how his family arrived in Mooresburg, Tennessee on a plot of land located on the cusp of the Cherokee River. When Ron began looking for property to retire to in the early 1980s, the family originally looked at property in Oregon. But Scott, who was fully immersed in the dirt racing scene by that point, recognized that Oregon’s racing was outdated and suggested Tennessee, where Robert Smawley and his NDRA outfit were operating and paying $10,000 to win. Upon arriving, Scott found success early at Kingsport Speedway and used the momentum to propel himself to the top of the division, where he has gone on to win more marquee events than any other driver in history.However, Scott’s time at the top has not been without controversy and the interview touches on his various legal issues and suspensions over the years. Scott is open on the subject and explains how his appearance and success have led others to assume the worst about him. The infamy that came with the arrests boosted Scott’s reputation and ultimately led to him becoming a colossal figure in the sport.Finally, no interview with Scott Bloomquist would be complete without discussing aliens and extraterrestrial beings. Scott details his neighbor's encounter and even touches on an experience of his own. Download listeners should tune in for an unforgettable episode and a peak into the mind of one of racing’s most iconic figures.  To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

After the conclusion of the NASCAR racing season, Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis are once again in the Bojangles Studio for another edition of Dirty Air presented by Filter Time. Dale was fresh off his trip to Phoenix for NASCAR’s Championship weekend, and there was plenty to unpack. JR Motorsports came up short in its bid for the Xfinity Championship against Ty Gibbs and the Joe Gibbs Racing organization, and Dale shares his insights of what unfolded in the race and what could have played out differently. The racing world was rocked Sunday morning by the sudden passing of Ty’s father Coy Gibbs. Dale and Mike discuss the recent perception of Ty due to his on-track incident at Martinsville, and speculate how the racing world will surround Ty in his moment of need. With his future career being one of the most discussed topics in NASCAR, it is hard to imagine how he is dealing with so many life-changing moments at once.  The NBC broadcast crew was also thrown for a loop when Steve Letarte had to have an emergency appendectomy after Saturday’s Xfinity race. Dale explains what was happening behind the scenes to aid Steve and his family, as well as what extra steps he had to take to prepare for Sunday’s Cup race one-man down.  During #AskJr. presented by Xfinity, listeners sent in questions regarding Dale’s dream tracks for the final four NASCAR Playoffs races, his opinions on Ross Chastain and Chase Elliott’s dust-up during the Phoenix race, updates on his car restoration projects, the recent announcement that Pennsboro Speedway is being revived and his plans for the off-season. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

After the conclusion of the NASCAR racing season, Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis are once again in the Bojangles Studio for another edition of Dirty Air presented by Filter Time. Dale was fresh off his trip to Phoenix for NASCAR’s Championship weekend, and there was plenty to unpack. JR Motorsports came up short in its bid for the Xfinity Championship against Ty Gibbs and the Joe Gibbs Racing organization, and Dale shares his insights of what unfolded in the race and what could have played out differently.The racing world was rocked Sunday morning by the sudden passing of Ty’s father Coy Gibbs. Dale and Mike discuss the recent perception of Ty due to his on-track incident at Martinsville, and speculate how the racing world will surround Ty in his moment of need. With his future career being one of the most discussed topics in NASCAR, it is hard to imagine how he is dealing with so many life-changing moments at once. The NBC broadcast crew was also thrown for a loop when Steve Letarte had to have an emergency appendectomy after Saturday’s Xfinity race. Dale explains what was happening behind the scenes to aid Steve and his family, as well as what extra steps he had to take to prepare for Sunday’s Cup race one-man down. During #AskJr. presented by Xfinity, listeners sent in questions regarding Dale’s dream tracks for the final four NASCAR Playoffs races, his opinions on Ross Chastain and Chase Elliott’s dust-up during the Phoenix race, updates on his car restoration projects, the recent announcement that Pennsboro Speedway is being revived and his plans for the off-season. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Jr. dropped all sorts of news on this week’s Dirty Air segment of The Dale Jr. Download podcast. First, he elaborated on his late model plans for Florence Motor Speedway’s South Carolina 400 on Nov. 19, including the paint scheme he will carry. Hint, we hope you like Dale Earnhardt throwbacks because this black-and-gold No. 3 will trigger some wonderful memories. Dale Jr. also announces he will be running an additional NASCAR Xfinity Series race in 2023. In Ask Jr, Dale Jr. answers a handful of fan-sourced questions, including: Should owners have more say in NASCAR? Do you make a Halloween costume that conceals your identity? What do you think of Parker Kligerman’s recent announcement that he’s returning to full-time NXS racing? After driving to Martinsville with him, how well would you rate Truex as a road-trip buddy? What do you make of Austin Hill’s punch of Myatt Snider? Finally, Dale Jr. reveals upcoming guests on the Download to finish out the 2023 season. One is probably Dirt Super Late Model’s biggest star and has been for three decades; the other you never saw coming. It’s OK, we didn’t either. BZF has entered the chat! To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Jr. dropped all sorts of news on this week’s Dirty Air segment of The Dale Jr. Download podcast. First, he elaborated on his late model plans for Florence Motor Speedway’s South Carolina 400 on Nov. 19, including the paint scheme he will carry. Hint, we hope you like Dale Earnhardt throwbacks because this black-and-gold No. 3 will trigger some wonderful memories. Dale Jr. also announces he will be running an additional NASCAR Xfinity Series race in 2023.In Ask Jr, Dale Jr. answers a handful of fan-sourced questions, including: Should owners have more say in NASCAR? Do you make a Halloween costume that conceals your identity? What do you think of Parker Kligerman’s recent announcement that he’s returning to full-time NXS racing? After driving to Martinsville with him, how well would you rate Truex as a road-trip buddy? What do you make of Austin Hill’s punch of Myatt Snider? Finally, Dale Jr. reveals upcoming guests on the Download to finish out the 2023 season. One is probably Dirt Super Late Model’s biggest star and has been for three decades; the other you never saw coming. It’s OK, we didn’t either. BZF has entered the chat! To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The sun is setting on the 2022 NASCAR season, and the Dirty Mo Media crew is recording a special edition of the Dale Jr. Download to help race fans prepare for the crowning of a new round of champions. While Dale Jr. and co-host Mike Davis have become known for their well-informed examinations of NASCAR events, for episode 406 they’ve called for reinforcements, bringing NBC Sports color analyst and former Hendrick Motorsports crew chief Steve Letarte to the Bojangles Studio. Download listeners can expect to hear a breakdown of: Ross Chastain’s INSANE last lap wall ride at Martinsville Ty Gibbs spinning out teammate Brandon Jones to win Previews and anticipation for the championship weekend events at Phoenix Raceway A case for each of the Xfinity and Cup Series championship contenders Predictions of who will win and why You can hear all of this and more on tonight’s episode of the Dale Jr. Download, available on this website and all major podcast streaming platforms. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The sun is setting on the 2022 NASCAR season, and the Dirty Mo Media crew is recording a special edition of the Dale Jr. Download to help race fans prepare for the crowning of a new round of champions. While Dale Jr. and co-host Mike Davis have become known for their well-informed examinations of NASCAR events, for episode 406 they’ve called for reinforcements, bringing NBC Sports color analyst and former Hendrick Motorsports crew chief Steve Letarte to the Bojangles Studio. Download listeners can expect to hear a breakdown of: Ross Chastain’s INSANE last lap wall ride at Martinsville Ty Gibbs spinning out teammate Brandon Jones to win Previews and anticipation for the championship weekend events at Phoenix Raceway A case for each of the Xfinity and Cup Series championship contenders Predictions of who will win and why You can hear all of this and more on tonight’s episode of the Dale Jr. Download, available on this website and all major podcast streaming platforms. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Welcome to Season Two of Gone South, the Edward R. Murrow-Award-winning documentary podcast from C13Originals.   Starting in the early sixties, a rag-tag confederation of traveling criminals known as The Dixie Mafia terrorized every state from Georgia to Oklahoma. Its hundreds of members, unofficially headquartered in Biloxi, Mississippi, specialized in scams, heists, and murder. Their ringleader — the estranged son of a prominent Oklahoma politician — was a skilled and charismatic outlaw named Kirksey Nix. When Nix was sentenced to life in prison at Angola for a murder he committed in New Orleans, The Dixie Mafia was thought to be extinct. But fifteen years later, a sitting criminal court judge named Vincent Sherry and his wife Margaret, a mayoral candidate for the city of Biloxi, was assassinated. As the case ran cold, authorities were forced to confront a disturbing reality: the reign of Kirksey Nix and The Dixie Mafia was far from over.    Gone South is a creation and production of Peabody-nominated C13Originals, a Cadence13 studio, in association with Jed and Tom Lipinski. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Welcome to Season Two of Gone South, the Edward R. Murrow-Award-winning documentary podcast from C13Originals.  Starting in the early sixties, a rag-tag confederation of traveling criminals known as The Dixie Mafia terrorized every state from Georgia to Oklahoma. Its hundreds of members, unofficially headquartered in Biloxi, Mississippi, specialized in scams, heists, and murder. Their ringleader — the estranged son of a prominent Oklahoma politician — was a skilled and charismatic outlaw named Kirksey Nix. When Nix was sentenced to life in prison at Angola for a murder he committed in New Orleans, The Dixie Mafia was thought to be extinct. But fifteen years later, a sitting criminal court judge named Vincent Sherry and his wife Margaret, a mayoral candidate for the city of Biloxi, was assassinated. As the case ran cold, authorities were forced to confront a disturbing reality: the reign of Kirksey Nix and The Dixie Mafia was far from over.   Gone South is a creation and production of Peabody-nominated C13Originals, a Cadence13 studio, in association with Jed and Tom Lipinski. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Back in September, the stock car racing world was turned upside down when the announcement was made that the 2023 NASCAR All-Star race would be held at the recently revived North Wilkesboro Speedway. On this week’s episode of The Dale Jr. Download, Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis sit down with the man who helped make the decision, CEO and President of Speedway Motorsports Incorporated Marcus Smith. Devotees of The Download will recognize that this marks Smith’s fifth appearance on the show, and his yearly check-in usually provides great insight into some of the upcoming projects in the NASCAR world. Much has changed since Marcus’ last visit in May 2021, most notably the passing of his father Bruton, who was a major contributor to the racing world and founder of SMI. Marcus reflects on the difficult process of coming to terms with his father’s declining health but is thankful that he lived a long life of 95 years. He also explains how his father got his start in car sales by running a used car lot on his mother’s front lawn. Though he was eventually shut down by city officials, his knack for the industry eventually led to him forming Sonic Automotive, the fifth-largest automotive retailer in the country. The interview addresses the rumors surrounding the reconfiguration of Texas Motor Speedway. Dale and Marcus unpack the September Cup race held at the Fort Worth-based track and discuss what can be done to help boost attendance while keeping competitors and teams happy. Marcus explains that with the current grandstand set-up, there are limited changes that can be made to the track’s actual configuration. However, alterations can be made to the speedway’s profile, much like the recent reshaping of Atlanta Motor Speedway. In fact, with the help of iRacing, they’ve been able to model potential changes and test through simulation to see what effect they’d have on the racing product. The process was essential to the work done in Atlanta, and the results found in the trial runs were comparable to the actual Cup races held this season. In addition to the changes made to the racing surface at Atlanta, there have been talks of bringing a casino resort to the grounds in an effort to build up the area similar to that of Kansas Speedway. Marcus explains that in order for the plans to go through, there needs to be an amendment made to the Georgia state constitution that would allow for sports gambling, and encourages listeners and supporters of the speedway to be vocal to their local representatives. Another huge topic of discussion was the status of the Nashville Fairgrounds project. Those following along will remember that Dale and Marcus have been huge proponents in bringing NASCAR Cup racing back to the famed oval. Marcus makes clear that while they have been seemingly stuck in place for a while, progress is being made on the initiative.  A glimmer of hope in bringing relics of NASCAR’s past back to life has been the return of North Wilkesboro Speedway. Dale and Marcus reflect on the huge success of the recent CARS Late Model Stock Car race at the track and fill listeners in on the changes and upgrades being made to the facility in anticipation of next year’s All-Star event. Aside from additional seating being brought in, improvements are being made to the facilities, scoring system, retaining walls, and traffic flow.  The conversation also touches on NASCAR’s ongoing television contract discussions and what it means for the tracks and the Race Team Alliance. Tune in for insight from one of the great minds and innovators in the motorsports industry regarding what it takes to run a speedway and what all parties can do to help the sport grow as a whole.  Check out northwilkesborospeedway.com for updates/details. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Back in September, the stock car racing world was turned upside down when the announcement was made that the 2023 NASCAR All-Star race would be held at the recently revived North Wilkesboro Speedway. On this week’s episode of The Dale Jr. Download, Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis sit down with the man who helped make the decision, CEO and President of Speedway Motorsports Incorporated Marcus Smith. Devotees of The Download will recognize that this marks Smith’s fifth appearance on the show, and his yearly check-in usually provides great insight into some of the upcoming projects in the NASCAR world.Much has changed since Marcus’ last visit in May 2021, most notably the passing of his father Bruton, who was a major contributor to the racing world and founder of SMI. Marcus reflects on the difficult process of coming to terms with his father’s declining health but is thankful that he lived a long life of 95 years. He also explains how his father got his start in car sales by running a used car lot on his mother’s front lawn. Though he was eventually shut down by city officials, his knack for the industry eventually led to him forming Sonic Automotive, the fifth-largest automotive retailer in the country.The interview addresses the rumors surrounding the reconfiguration of Texas Motor Speedway. Dale and Marcus unpack the September Cup race held at the Fort Worth-based track and discuss what can be done to help boost attendance while keeping competitors and teams happy. Marcus explains that with the current grandstand set-up, there are limited changes that can be made to the track’s actual configuration. However, alterations can be made to the speedway’s profile, much like the recent reshaping of Atlanta Motor Speedway. In fact, with the help of iRacing, they’ve been able to model potential changes and test through simulation to see what effect they’d have on the racing product. The process was essential to the work done in Atlanta, and the results found in the trial runs were comparable to the actual Cup races held this season.In addition to the changes made to the racing surface at Atlanta, there have been talks of bringing a casino resort to the grounds in an effort to build up the area similar to that of Kansas Speedway. Marcus explains that in order for the plans to go through, there needs to be an amendment made to the Georgia state constitution that would allow for sports gambling, and encourages listeners and supporters of the speedway to be vocal to their local representatives.Another huge topic of discussion was the status of the Nashville Fairgrounds project. Those following along will remember that Dale and Marcus have been huge proponents in bringing NASCAR Cup racing back to the famed oval. Marcus makes clear that while they have been seemingly stuck in place for a while, progress is being made on the initiative. A glimmer of hope in bringing relics of NASCAR’s past back to life has been the return of North Wilkesboro Speedway. Dale and Marcus reflect on the huge success of the recent CARS Late Model Stock Car race at the track and fill listeners in on the changes and upgrades being made to the facility in anticipation of next year’s All-Star event. Aside from additional seating being brought in, improvements are being made to the facilities, scoring system, retaining walls, and traffic flow. The conversation also touches on NASCAR’s ongoing television contract discussions and what it means for the tracks and the Race Team Alliance. Tune in for insight from one of the great minds and innovators in the motorsports industry regarding what it takes to run a speedway and what all parties can do to help the sport grow as a whole. Check out northwilkesborospeedway.com for updates/details. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

New week, new format for The Dale Jr. Download. In order to provide Download listeners something to tune in a tad sooner on podcast days, the Dirty Air segment and Ask Jr. segment will be released on their own. The duo started the segment with big news! North Wilkesboro must've given Dale the racing itch because he started the segment by announcing that he will be racing again soon and provides all the details where you can catch the action. Mike couldn't pass up the opportunity to ask Dale about his WWE experience at Monday Night Raw in Charlotte. Dale attended the event as a fan and is on the lookout for a WWE superstar to root for. The full episode of The Dale Jr. Download will drop on Tuesday, October 25, with an announcement-filled interview with Marcus Smith. What has turned into a yearly check-in provides Dale and Marcus the opportunity to break some news around the North Wilkesboro All-Star week. In #AskJr presented by Xfinity, Dale, Mike, Hannah, and Alex discuss what happened to the possum found at JRM after Las Vegas, how the podcast got started, and Tony Stewart's NHRA debut. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

New week, new format for The Dale Jr. Download. In order to provide Download listeners something to tune in a tad sooner on podcast days, the Dirty Air segment and Ask Jr. segment will be released on their own.The duo started the segment with big news! North Wilkesboro must've given Dale the racing itch because he started the segment by announcing that he will be racing again soon and provides all the details where you can catch the action.Mike couldn't pass up the opportunity to ask Dale about his WWE experience at Monday Night Raw in Charlotte. Dale attended the event as a fan and is on the lookout for a WWE superstar to root for.The full episode of The Dale Jr. Download will drop on Tuesday, October 25, with an announcement-filled interview with Marcus Smith. What has turned into a yearly check-in provides Dale and Marcus the opportunity to break some news around the North Wilkesboro All-Star week.In #AskJr presented by Xfinity, Dale, Mike, Hannah, and Alex discuss what happened to the possum found at JRM after Las Vegas, how the podcast got started, and Tony Stewart's NHRA debut. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

When the dust settled on the 2022 Southern 500 at Darlington Raceway, Dale Earnhardt Jr. got to fulfill a broadcasting bucket list item: declaring that the No. 43 was the winner. On this week’s episode of The Dale Jr. Download, he and co-host Mike Davis sit down with the man who helped make it possible, the Petty GMS driver of the No. 43 NASCAR Cup Series car, Erik Jones. Erik’s start in racing came when his mother read in a magazine about children competing in quarter midgets. Soon after, his father, Dave, bought a car, a book on set-ups, and the Jones family racing operation was off and running. At the age of 12, he graduated into the pure stock class and explains that after his first outing he was told by tech officials not to return due to his on-track aggression.  Erik got his first big break in his racing career when he got the call to shake down Kyle Busch’s late model at the Nashville Fairgrounds. The connection came through spotter Brandon Lines, and even though he had limited seat time in a super late model, he was able to produce impressive lap times at the famed oval. When Erik scored his biggest victory to date later that year in the Snowball Derby, beating out Busch to do so, a lasting impression was made. Not long after that Busch and executives at Toyota Racing were lobbying on behalf of Erik, and the efforts led to an agreement with Joe Gibbs Racing. Once he was sitting in the Kyle Busch Motorsports No. 51 truck, Erik’s meteoric rise through NASCAR’s national series began. He notched his first Truck Series victory in just his fifth attempt and went on to win the series championship in his rookie season. He also made waves in the Xfinity racing pool, winning six times through 2015 and ‘16. Erik explains that since he was having on-track success, he didn’t apply himself as much outside of the race car as he could have. When he arrived on the Cup scene in 2017, the unprecedented grind put a magnifying glass on his lack of preparation. Erik’s transition into the premiere division of stock car racing was made difficult by another factor as well: the loss of his father in 2016. As the racing season began, his father was diagnosed with stage-four melanoma. Erik would fly to and from Michigan while competing full-time in the Xfinity Series to spend as much time with his father as he could. He and Dale relate to the process of having conversations with a parent in their final stage of life and having the opportunity to be completely honest and open with them. Erik explains that competing in the Cup Series was a shared dream for him and his father, and his perception changed in the wake of his passing.  The conversation also covers Erik’s release from Joe Gibbs Racing following the 2020 season. Erik gives great insight into the vulnerability and embarrassment a driver experiences when being let go from a race team. He recalls the painful ordeal of having to tell his family and friends as well as having to finish out the season with a crew that he would be leaving at the end of the year.  Erik channeled positivity through the low point and eventually became excited at the prospect of a new start. That opportunity came in 2021 when he signed on with Petty GMS to take over the famed No. 43 ride. After the challenging process of having to start over, the team has turned around in the 2022 season with Erik scoring a major victory at the Southern 500 and being in contention for wins week in and week out.  Through it all, Erik has been resilient through the ebb and flow of the racing world and it appears that his brightest days still lie ahead.  DIRTY AIR Response to the Ben Kennedy episode Bubba Wallace and Kyle Larson’s dust-up at Vegas Kurt Busch retiring from full-time competition Cole Custer’s future with SHR ASKJR presented by Xfinity Dale’s updated final fours for Cup and Xfinity Innovation fishing tournaments Repaving of Rockingham  New iRacing Championship trophy To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

When the dust settled on the 2022 Southern 500 at Darlington Raceway, Dale Earnhardt Jr. got to fulfill a broadcasting bucket list item: declaring that the No. 43 was the winner. On this week’s episode of The Dale Jr. Download, he and co-host Mike Davis sit down with the man who helped make it possible, the Petty GMS driver of the No. 43 NASCAR Cup Series car, Erik Jones.Erik’s start in racing came when his mother read in a magazine about children competing in quarter midgets. Soon after, his father, Dave, bought a car, a book on set-ups, and the Jones family racing operation was off and running. At the age of 12, he graduated into the pure stock class and explains that after his first outing he was told by tech officials not to return due to his on-track aggression. Erik got his first big break in his racing career when he got the call to shake down Kyle Busch’s late model at the Nashville Fairgrounds. The connection came through spotter Brandon Lines, and even though he had limited seat time in a super late model, he was able to produce impressive lap times at the famed oval. When Erik scored his biggest victory to date later that year in the Snowball Derby, beating out Busch to do so, a lasting impression was made. Not long after that Busch and executives at Toyota Racing were lobbying on behalf of Erik, and the efforts led to an agreement with Joe Gibbs Racing.Once he was sitting in the Kyle Busch Motorsports No. 51 truck, Erik’s meteoric rise through NASCAR’s national series began. He notched his first Truck Series victory in just his fifth attempt and went on to win the series championship in his rookie season. He also made waves in the Xfinity racing pool, winning six times through 2015 and ‘16. Erik explains that since he was having on-track success, he didn’t apply himself as much outside of the race car as he could have. When he arrived on the Cup scene in 2017, the unprecedented grind put a magnifying glass on his lack of preparation.Erik’s transition into the premiere division of stock car racing was made difficult by another factor as well: the loss of his father in 2016. As the racing season began, his father was diagnosed with stage-four melanoma. Erik would fly to and from Michigan while competing full-time in the Xfinity Series to spend as much time with his father as he could. He and Dale relate to the process of having conversations with a parent in their final stage of life and having the opportunity to be completely honest and open with them. Erik explains that competing in the Cup Series was a shared dream for him and his father, and his perception changed in the wake of his passing. The conversation also covers Erik’s release from Joe Gibbs Racing following the 2020 season. Erik gives great insight into the vulnerability and embarrassment a driver experiences when being let go from a race team. He recalls the painful ordeal of having to tell his family and friends as well as having to finish out the season with a crew that he would be leaving at the end of the year. Erik channeled positivity through the low point and eventually became excited at the prospect of a new start. That opportunity came in 2021 when he signed on with Petty GMS to take over the famed No. 43 ride. After the challenging process of having to start over, the team has turned around in the 2022 season with Erik scoring a major victory at the Southern 500 and being in contention for wins week in and week out. Through it all, Erik has been resilient through the ebb and flow of the racing world and it appears that his brightest days still lie ahead. DIRTY AIRResponse to the Ben Kennedy episodeBubba Wallace and Kyle Larson’s dust-up at VegasKurt Busch retiring from full-time competitionCole Custer’s future with SHRASKJR presented by XfinityDale’s updated final fours for Cup and XfinityInnovation fishing tournamentsRepaving of Rockingham New iRacing Championship trophy To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

An early-bird, Dirty Air-segment solo special for Dale Jr. Download listeners eager to hear Dale Earnhardt Jr.’s take on current events, including the drama from Sunday’s South Point 400 NASCAR Cup Series race at Las Vegas Motor Speedway. But first, Dale Earnhardt Jr. and Mike Davis start Dirty Air by addressing criticism about last week’s interview with Ben Kennedy, NASCAR’s SVP of Strategy & Innovation. The two DJD hosts respond to social media kickback claiming they were too lenient on Kennedy, grandson to the late Bill France Jr. and widely considered to be NASCAR’s next top guy. Did they let him off the hook with softball questions and easy outs? The conversation then pivots to the topic of the hour – the initial mid-race wreck involving Wallace, Larson, and Christopher Bell, as well as the retaliation, shoving match, and post-race interview that ensued. Earnhardt tries to predict what NASCAR’s response will be by drawing from past examples such as Chase Elliott vs. Kyle Busch at Darlington in 2020 and Noah Gragson vs. Sage Karam at Road America earlier this year. That wasn’t the only news from the weekend. Kurt Busch announced he will no longer race full-time in the NASCAR Cup Series as he continues to heal from concussions. This topic was especially personal to Dale Jr., who also had his racing career cut short due to a head injury. What will Kurt do next? Mike Davis has a thought, and Dale Jr. loves the idea. Lastly, on Dirty Air, Earnhardt unpacks the whole saga at Stewart-Haas Racing, where Tony Stewart expressed anger towards NASCAR over the penalties levied against Cole Custer’s No. 41 team, and Gene Haas reportedly made comments to media about Custer’s future. What does this mean for Custer? What about Ryan Preece? Earnhardt weighs in with his usual unfiltered opinion, candor, and honesty. The full episode of The Dale Jr. Download will drop on Tuesday, October 18, complete with Dirty Air presented by Filter Time, Ask Jr presented by Xfinity, and a deep conversation with Erik Jones, driver of the Petty/GMS No. 43, in the guest segment presented by Ally. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

An early-bird, Dirty Air-segment solo special for Dale Jr. Download listeners eager to hear Dale Earnhardt Jr.’s take on current events, including the drama from Sunday’s South Point 400 NASCAR Cup Series race at Las Vegas Motor Speedway.But first, Dale Earnhardt Jr. and Mike Davis start Dirty Air by addressing criticism about last week’s interview with Ben Kennedy, NASCAR’s SVP of Strategy & Innovation. The two DJD hosts respond to social media kickback claiming they were too lenient on Kennedy, grandson to the late Bill France Jr. and widely considered to be NASCAR’s next top guy. Did they let him off the hook with softball questions and easy outs?The conversation then pivots to the topic of the hour – the initial mid-race wreck involving Wallace, Larson, and Christopher Bell, as well as the retaliation, shoving match, and post-race interview that ensued. Earnhardt tries to predict what NASCAR’s response will be by drawing from past examples such as Chase Elliott vs. Kyle Busch at Darlington in 2020 and Noah Gragson vs. Sage Karam at Road America earlier this year.That wasn’t the only news from the weekend. Kurt Busch announced he will no longer race full-time in the NASCAR Cup Series as he continues to heal from concussions. This topic was especially personal to Dale Jr., who also had his racing career cut short due to a head injury. What will Kurt do next? Mike Davis has a thought, and Dale Jr. loves the idea.Lastly, on Dirty Air, Earnhardt unpacks the whole saga at Stewart-Haas Racing, where Tony Stewart expressed anger towards NASCAR over the penalties levied against Cole Custer’s No. 41 team, and Gene Haas reportedly made comments to media about Custer’s future. What does this mean for Custer? What about Ryan Preece? Earnhardt weighs in with his usual unfiltered opinion, candor, and honesty.The full episode of The Dale Jr. Download will drop on Tuesday, October 18, complete with Dirty Air presented by Filter Time, Ask Jr presented by Xfinity, and a deep conversation with Erik Jones, driver of the Petty/GMS No. 43, in the guest segment presented by Ally. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

As NASCAR gets ready to celebrate its 75th year of existence in 2023, its premiere division the Cup Series will set out on its most versatile schedule to date. On this week’s episode of The Dale Jr. Download, Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis sit down with one of the visionaries responsible for the swift transformation the sport of stock car racing has seen over the last few seasons, NASCAR’s Senior VP of Racing Development & Strategy Ben Kennedy. Born and raised in Daytona Beach, Ben is a fourth-generation member of NASCAR’s founding France family, the son of Lesa France Kennedy and great-grandson of Bill France Sr. While he is only 30 years old, he has been around the sport his entire life in many capacities, from working odd jobs at Daytona International to being in the driver’s seat and owning his own race team. His unique insight and experience have allowed him to rapidly rise through the NASCAR executive ranks, originally taking a position as the General Manager of the Trucks Series in 2018. With the incorporation of the Chicago street race and the Clash at the Coliseum, as well as returning to North Wilkesboro and the Bristol dirt race, the stock car racing mainstay has gone leaps and bounds from its original vision in 1948, while keeping its fundamentals in place. Ben explains that much of the decision to hold events like the street race or the Coliseum was based on wanting to connect to city centers where NASCAR has a large fan base while doing something out of the box, original to the sanctioning body itself. During his time with the NASCAR Operations team, Ben learned a lot about NASCAR’s international fanbase and what efforts are being made to help grow it. While the majority of racing circuits overseas are road course configurations, the team began looking into building temporary oval tracks in stadiums or arenas to help display stock car racing in its original form. He explains that this is what put the L.A. Coliseum on their radar as a potential venue to house such a production. He also goes on to talk about the conception of the Chicago street course and how the team settled on Grant Park as a location. The team originally visited Soldier Field as a possible setting for the Clash event. But due to the current configuration of the field, the potential racing surface would be far too small, thus leading to the event being moved to Los Angeles. However, thanks to Grant Park’s ability to facilitate a large number of spectators, as seen with Lollapalooza every year, the focus turned to creating a street course. With the help of iRacing’s scanning system, they were able to bring a realistic render to life and test it with a cast of NASCAR Cup stars last year. Earlier in the interview, the trio discusses what Ben’s life was like growing up in Daytona and his interests before entering the motorsports world. In 2007, Ben tragically lost his father Dr. Bruce Kennedy in a plane crash, and he and Dale were able to bond over the shock of losing a loved one suddenly. Ben first got behind the wheel of a race car at age 14 when a family friend signed him up for a go-kart course held at New Smyrna Speedway. Ben fell in love with the sport immediately and in the years that followed he quickly progressed through the local Central Florida short track divisions into the regional NASCAR ranks, before finally arriving in the Trucks Series. After having a breakout season in 2014 and making his Xfinity Series debut a couple of seasons later, Ben retired from racing at the end of the 2017 season to begin his journey through the business side of the organization. DIRTY AIR Dale’s birthday activities Was the caution for the sign the right call? RTA and NASCAR discussions hit a wall Buster’s Trip to Victory Lane ASKJR presented by Xfinity Birthday memories Can iRacing bring a former track to life? Another OEM entering NASCAR Favorite childhood vacations To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

As NASCAR gets ready to celebrate its 75th year of existence in 2023, its premiere division the Cup Series will set out on its most versatile schedule to date. On this week’s episode of The Dale Jr. Download, Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis sit down with one of the visionaries responsible for the swift transformation the sport of stock car racing has seen over the last few seasons, NASCAR’s Senior VP of Racing Development & Strategy Ben Kennedy.Born and raised in Daytona Beach, Ben is a fourth-generation member of NASCAR’s founding France family, the son of Lesa France Kennedy and great-grandson of Bill France Sr. While he is only 30 years old, he has been around the sport his entire life in many capacities, from working odd jobs at Daytona International to being in the driver’s seat and owning his own race team. His unique insight and experience have allowed him to rapidly rise through the NASCAR executive ranks, originally taking a position as the General Manager of the Trucks Series in 2018.With the incorporation of the Chicago street race and the Clash at the Coliseum, as well as returning to North Wilkesboro and the Bristol dirt race, the stock car racing mainstay has gone leaps and bounds from its original vision in 1948, while keeping its fundamentals in place. Ben explains that much of the decision to hold events like the street race or the Coliseum was based on wanting to connect to city centers where NASCAR has a large fan base while doing something out of the box, original to the sanctioning body itself.During his time with the NASCAR Operations team, Ben learned a lot about NASCAR’s international fanbase and what efforts are being made to help grow it. While the majority of racing circuits overseas are road course configurations, the team began looking into building temporary oval tracks in stadiums or arenas to help display stock car racing in its original form. He explains that this is what put the L.A. Coliseum on their radar as a potential venue to house such a production.He also goes on to talk about the conception of the Chicago street course and how the team settled on Grant Park as a location. The team originally visited Soldier Field as a possible setting for the Clash event. But due to the current configuration of the field, the potential racing surface would be far too small, thus leading to the event being moved to Los Angeles. However, thanks to Grant Park’s ability to facilitate a large number of spectators, as seen with Lollapalooza every year, the focus turned to creating a street course. With the help of iRacing’s scanning system, they were able to bring a realistic render to life and test it with a cast of NASCAR Cup stars last year.Earlier in the interview, the trio discusses what Ben’s life was like growing up in Daytona and his interests before entering the motorsports world. In 2007, Ben tragically lost his father Dr. Bruce Kennedy in a plane crash, and he and Dale were able to bond over the shock of losing a loved one suddenly. Ben first got behind the wheel of a race car at age 14 when a family friend signed him up for a go-kart course held at New Smyrna Speedway. Ben fell in love with the sport immediately and in the years that followed he quickly progressed through the local Central Florida short track divisions into the regional NASCAR ranks, before finally arriving in the Trucks Series. After having a breakout season in 2014 and making his Xfinity Series debut a couple of seasons later, Ben retired from racing at the end of the 2017 season to begin his journey through the business side of the organization.DIRTY AIRDale’s birthday activitiesWas the caution for the sign the right call?RTA and NASCAR discussions hit a wallBuster’s Trip to Victory LaneASKJR presented by XfinityBirthday memoriesCan iRacing bring a former track to life?Another OEM entering NASCARFavorite childhood vacations To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Conor Daly's NASCAR Cup Series debut is upon us and Speed Street returns for another episode to break down his final preparations. First, Conor and Joey talk about some IndyCar news with Colton Herta extending with Andretti Autosport, Arrow McLaren SP setting their number lineup, and discuss a couple of tracks set for repaves. Then, they talk with the driver of the No. 7 Spire Motorsports car in the NASCAR Cup Series, Corey Lajoie, about some final tips for Conor about his upcoming race, setting realistic expectations for a small team, and the difference between his "flow" and a mullet. Finally, the guys answer some fan questions. Follow @SpeedStreetpod and @Dirtymomedia on Instagram and Twitter. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Conor Daly's NASCAR Cup Series debut is upon us and Speed Street returns for another episode to break down his final preparations. First, Conor and Joey talk about some IndyCar news with Colton Herta extending with Andretti Autosport, Arrow McLaren SP setting their number lineup, and discuss a couple of tracks set for repaves. Then, they talk with the driver of the No. 7 Spire Motorsports car in the NASCAR Cup Series, Corey Lajoie, about some final tips for Conor about his upcoming race, setting realistic expectations for a small team, and the difference between his "flow" and a mullet. Finally, the guys answer some fan questions.Follow @SpeedStreetpod and @Dirtymomedia on Instagram and Twitter.To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In 400-plus episodes of The Dale Jr. Download, guests have brought a lot of Earnhardt stories to the table. But on this week’s edition the mold has been broken as Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis welcome longtime MLB player, coach and team manager Ned Yost. After being drafted by the Milwaukee Brewers in 1974 and playing in the majors for a handful of years, Ned retired during the ‘85 season. When he was at home in Mississippi figuring out his next move in life, he received a call from the Hank Aaron that would change the trajectory of his life forever, inviting him to be a coach for the upcoming pitching prospects of the Atlanta Braves. It was during his time with the Braves organization that he first made the acquaintance of Dale Earnhardt Sr. Ned and friend Jody Davis had made plans to go deer hunting and Davis invited Dale Sr. to come along. Ned and Dale Sr. became fast friends, bonding over their love of hunting and the outdoors and Ned would become a confidant for the Intimidator for years to come. Dale Jr. and Mike pick Ned’s brain about the transition from being a player to a coach, and he explains about how his time with Ted Simmons on the Brewers helped teach him the nuts and bolts of the game. When it came time for Ned to try his hand at team management, he leaned on his experiences of working with Bobby Cox, longtime manager of the Braves. And when he needed to turn a losing organization into a winning one, he depended on the lessons he learned from a brief stint of working on Dale Sr.’s race team in ‘94. Ned recalls the instance that occurred during the ‘94 MLB strike, where Dale Sr. invited him to come on the road with his Richard Childress Racing No. 3 team as they chased their seventh championship. While Ned merely worked as a “rehydration engineer”, he gained first person insight into what it takes to win at the highest level. The education came in handy as he went on to win his first World Series title with the Braves the following year as a bullpen coach. Another lesson that Dale Sr. instilled in Ned was that you never leave a winning team for a losing one. Ned explains that during a hunting trip in Texas, Dale Sr. was talking about his ongoing contract negotiations for the following season. When Ned suggested that he drive for his own start-up D.E.I., Dale Sr. explained that they weren’t ready to win yet. Ned pondered eventually having to leave the Braves to get his shot at managing a major league team and Dale Sr. implored him to stay put, explaining that winning is everything. The time came for Ned to leave in 2002 when he was made team manager of the Brewers. Ned breaks down the time it takes for a young organization to grow confident in their ability and start winning consistently, about a two-and-a-half-year process. Unfortunately, he was let go by Milwaukee before this concept came to fruition, but he found another opportunity to prove the system when he became manager of the Kansas City Royals in 2010. Ned would have the last laugh, as the Royals would win the ALC Pennant in 2014 and the World Series championship in 2015. The first thing Ned thought of was his old friend and how proud he would be of the persistent road to success. This episode has many never before heard Earnhardt hunting stories, as well “the rest of the story” of some of the most memorable tales told on The Download. Listeners should tune in for unforgettable insight into what it takes to win not only a World Series but a NASCAR Cup Championship, as well a better understanding of who Dale Earnhardt Sr. was away from the race track. DIRTY AIR Before Ned joins the show, Dale, Mike, Alex and Morgan chat about: Tame Talladega Drivers speaking out Improvements for the NextGen car What can be better about driver’s headrest ASKJR presented by Xfinity Funniest experience with another driver Which racing pioneer Dale wants to interview NASCAR Cup Championship patches Deer hunting trips for the rest of the year To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In 400-plus episodes of The Dale Jr. Download, guests have brought a lot of Earnhardt stories to the table. But on this week’s edition the mold has been broken as Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis welcome longtime MLB player, coach and team manager Ned Yost.After being drafted by the Milwaukee Brewers in 1974 and playing in the majors for a handful of years, Ned retired during the ‘85 season. When he was at home in Mississippi figuring out his next move in life, he received a call from the Hank Aaron that would change the trajectory of his life forever, inviting him to be a coach for the upcoming pitching prospects of the Atlanta Braves.It was during his time with the Braves organization that he first made the acquaintance of Dale Earnhardt Sr. Ned and friend Jody Davis had made plans to go deer hunting and Davis invited Dale Sr. to come along. Ned and Dale Sr. became fast friends, bonding over their love of hunting and the outdoors and Ned would become a confidant for the Intimidator for years to come.Dale Jr. and Mike pick Ned’s brain about the transition from being a player to a coach, and he explains about how his time with Ted Simmons on the Brewers helped teach him the nuts and bolts of the game. When it came time for Ned to try his hand at team management, he leaned on his experiences of working with Bobby Cox, longtime manager of the Braves. And when he needed to turn a losing organization into a winning one, he depended on the lessons he learned from a brief stint of working on Dale Sr.’s race team in ‘94.Ned recalls the instance that occurred during the ‘94 MLB strike, where Dale Sr. invited him to come on the road with his Richard Childress Racing No. 3 team as they chased their seventh championship. While Ned merely worked as a “rehydration engineer”, he gained first person insight into what it takes to win at the highest level. The education came in handy as he went on to win his first World Series title with the Braves the following year as a bullpen coach.Another lesson that Dale Sr. instilled in Ned was that you never leave a winning team for a losing one. Ned explains that during a hunting trip in Texas, Dale Sr. was talking about his ongoing contract negotiations for the following season. When Ned suggested that he drive for his own start-up D.E.I., Dale Sr. explained that they weren’t ready to win yet. Ned pondered eventually having to leave the Braves to get his shot at managing a major league team and Dale Sr. implored him to stay put, explaining that winning is everything.The time came for Ned to leave in 2002 when he was made team manager of the Brewers. Ned breaks down the time it takes for a young organization to grow confident in their ability and start winning consistently, about a two-and-a-half-year process. Unfortunately, he was let go by Milwaukee before this concept came to fruition, but he found another opportunity to prove the system when he became manager of the Kansas City Royals in 2010. Ned would have the last laugh, as the Royals would win the ALC Pennant in 2014 and the World Series championship in 2015. The first thing Ned thought of was his old friend and how proud he would be of the persistent road to success.This episode has many never before heard Earnhardt hunting stories, as well “the rest of the story” of some of the most memorable tales told on The Download. Listeners should tune in for unforgettable insight into what it takes to win not only a World Series but a NASCAR Cup Championship, as well a better understanding of who Dale Earnhardt Sr. was away from the race track.DIRTY AIRBefore Ned joins the show, Dale, Mike, Alex and Morgan chat about:Tame TalladegaDrivers speaking outImprovements for the NextGen carWhat can be better about driver’s headrestASKJR presented by XfinityFunniest experience with another driverWhich racing pioneer Dale wants to interviewNASCAR Cup Championship patchesDeer hunting trips for the rest of the year To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Current events are on the docket as Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis unpack the turbulent happenings of NASCAR’s weekend in Texas on this week’s episode of The Dale Jr. Download. Not only that, but they’ve brought in a guest who was very much a part of the turbulence, recent Bristol night race winner Chris Buescher. Dale and Chris have had some friendly banter over the past few weeks after Dale mistakenly referred to Chris as “Christopher” during a race broadcast. As the misstep reoccurred, Dale began to embrace the name change-up in an effort to catch his fellow commentators in the same spur-of-the-moment confusion. Chris caught wind of the joke via social media and took it in stride, even going as far as to change his profile name on Twitter and the driver name decal on his Roush Fenway Keselowski No. 17 car.  Dale explains that he first grew to admire Chris when he bested then JR Motorsports driver Chase Elliott in the 2015 Xfinity Series season points standings. They discuss Chris leaving his hometown of Prosper, Texas at the age of 15 to move to North Carolina to pursue a career in motorsports. Chris credits his upbringing from his parents and knowing he was there to work and race. A huge part of Buescher's journey was a friendship he forged with Ken and David Ragan, which stemmed from a black flag incident during the Summer Shootout Legends car event at Charlotte Motor Speedway. Chris recalls getting in trouble for rough driving during the race and being sent to Ken’s office, who was managing 600 Racing at the time. After the Shootout, Ken explained to Chris’ family that if they were serious about racing, they needed to move out east. When they established that they were not in the place to do that at the time, Ken offered the spare bedroom in his house to Chris.  Chris talks about getting involved in the Roush Racing development program thanks to help from the Ragans. His first step up the ladder was the ARCA Series, where he raced out of Midlothian, Illinois with the Roulo Brothers Racing outfit. He also discusses adapting to a stock car after transitioning out of Legends cars, and how he knocked the nose off his car on a start in one of his first races at Salem Speedway.  The story of Chris making his Xfinity Series debut is a wild one, as he was tabbed last minute to fill in for Trevor Bayne in 2011, who went on medical leave. After forgetting to plug his phone in overnight, he was awakened by Gary Roulo who informed him “get your stuff, we’re going to the airport”. In the car, Gary explained the situation, and soon Chris was at Richmond Raceway getting fitted to hop into the No. 16 car with no practice laps or simulator time.  The interview also discusses Chris’ time with Front Row Motorsports after winning the 2015 Xfinity Championship and his rain-shortened Cup victory at Pocono in 2016. Dale asks about the culture change at RFK since the arrival of Brad Keselowski. They also discuss the NextGen car’s tire issues and what changes can be made to Texas Motor Speedway to help better the racing there.  With only a few races left in the 2022 Cup schedule, Chris is optimistic about where the RFK Racing organization is heading, and he’s looking forward to capitalizing on the momentum they’ve built in the past few weeks.  DIRTY AIR Before Chris joins the show, Dale, Mike, Alex and Hannah discuss: NASCAR’s eventful stop in Texas  Denny and William Byron have a dust-up The NextGen tire problems continue in a big way What to do about Texas Motor Speedway?    ASKJR presented by Xfinity This week the fans asked questions about: Dale’s reaction to Jimmie Johnson retiring from full-time competition in 2023 Which underfunded driver would he like to give a shot in a JRM ride Smaller steering wheels vs. bigger Where Noah Gragson’s Waffle House tradition stems from To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Current events are on the docket as Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis unpack the turbulent happenings of NASCAR’s weekend in Texas on this week’s episode of The Dale Jr. Download. Not only that, but they’ve brought in a guest who was very much a part of the turbulence, recent Bristol night race winner Chris Buescher.Dale and Chris have had some friendly banter over the past few weeks after Dale mistakenly referred to Chris as “Christopher” during a race broadcast. As the misstep reoccurred, Dale began to embrace the name change-up in an effort to catch his fellow commentators in the same spur-of-the-moment confusion. Chris caught wind of the joke via social media and took it in stride, even going as far as to change his profile name on Twitter and the driver name decal on his Roush Fenway Keselowski No. 17 car. Dale explains that he first grew to admire Chris when he bested then JR Motorsports driver Chase Elliott in the 2015 Xfinity Series season points standings. They discuss Chris leaving his hometown of Prosper, Texas at the age of 15 to move to North Carolina to pursue a career in motorsports. Chris credits his upbringing from his parents and knowing he was there to work and race.A huge part of Buescher's journey was a friendship he forged with Ken and David Ragan, which stemmed from a black flag incident during the Summer Shootout Legends car event at Charlotte Motor Speedway. Chris recalls getting in trouble for rough driving during the race and being sent to Ken’s office, who was managing 600 Racing at the time. After the Shootout, Ken explained to Chris’ family that if they were serious about racing, they needed to move out east. When they established that they were not in the place to do that at the time, Ken offered the spare bedroom in his house to Chris. Chris talks about getting involved in the Roush Racing development program thanks to help from the Ragans. His first step up the ladder was the ARCA Series, where he raced out of Midlothian, Illinois with the Roulo Brothers Racing outfit. He also discusses adapting to a stock car after transitioning out of Legends cars, and how he knocked the nose off his car on a start in one of his first races at Salem Speedway. The story of Chris making his Xfinity Series debut is a wild one, as he was tabbed last minute to fill in for Trevor Bayne in 2011, who went on medical leave. After forgetting to plug his phone in overnight, he was awakened by Gary Roulo who informed him “get your stuff, we’re going to the airport”. In the car, Gary explained the situation, and soon Chris was at Richmond Raceway getting fitted to hop into the No. 16 car with no practice laps or simulator time. The interview also discusses Chris’ time with Front Row Motorsports after winning the 2015 Xfinity Championship and his rain-shortened Cup victory at Pocono in 2016. Dale asks about the culture change at RFK since the arrival of Brad Keselowski. They also discuss the NextGen car’s tire issues and what changes can be made to Texas Motor Speedway to help better the racing there. With only a few races left in the 2022 Cup schedule, Chris is optimistic about where the RFK Racing organization is heading, and he’s looking forward to capitalizing on the momentum they’ve built in the past few weeks. DIRTY AIR Before Chris joins the show, Dale, Mike, Alex and Hannah discuss: NASCAR’s eventful stop in Texas  Denny and William Byron have a dust-up The NextGen tire problems continue in a big way What to do about Texas Motor Speedway?   ASKJR presented by XfinityThis week the fans asked questions about: Dale’s reaction to Jimmie Johnson retiring from full-time competition in 2023 Which underfunded driver would he like to give a shot in a JRM ride Smaller steering wheels vs. bigger Where Noah Gragson’s Waffle House tradition stems from To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Everyone in stock car racing dreams of being on a Daytona 500-winning team, but how about three wins in five years? For Tony Glover, that dream became reality in the early 1990s, and on this week’s episode of The Dale Jr. Download, he joins Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis to discuss the pieces of the puzzle that made it possible. Glover has been a part of racing his entire life. He attended his first race at three weeks old. Tony recalls his earliest memory in racing, which consisted of his father Gene flying out of Cleveland Speedway in Tennessee. The trauma of seeing his father’s crash did little to deter his love for the sport though, and by his teenage years, Tony was cleaning parts and turning wrenches. After spending many years on the road crew chiefing for his father’s late model program, which yielded the 1979 NASCAR Sportsman National Championship, Tony accepted a position at Petty Enterprises. Tony explains that the year he spent in Level Cross, North Carolina was the equivalent of a four-year college education. But, when his grandmother became ill in ‘83, he decided to move closer to home to spend time with her. As fate would have it, Larry McClure and Tim Morgan had just bought out G.C. Spencer and established their Morgan-McClure outfit in nearby Abingdon, Virginia and Tony was hired to work as part of the pit crew.  Tony shares the story of how he became a crew chief for the team when Spencer, who had stayed on in the chiefing role, quit suddenly during the teching process at an event at Nashville Fairgrounds. This bumped Tony into the position and he remained there for the duration of his time with the outfit. They discuss the revolving roster of drivers Morgan-McClure had during the ‘80s, which included Lennie Pond, Tommy Ellis, Joe Ruttman and Rick Wilson. Tony explains that when Rick departed for RahMoc after ‘89, his choice to fill the seat was the hard charging Ernie Irvan. And while Phil Parsons would start the ‘90 season in the cockpit, after a few failed outings Irvan would eventually get the seat and help put Morgan-McClure on the map. The Irvan-Glover combination was quite successful, bringing home seven Cup wins including the ‘91 Daytona 500, but would only last a few seasons as Irvan would depart for Robert Yates in ‘93. His replacement was a driver Tony was well acquainted with from his years in the late model scene: fellow Tennessean Sterling Marlin. The new pairing won in their first outing, the ‘94 Daytona 500. When they followed up with a back-to-back triumph in the Great American Race in ‘95, they had the entire NASCAR garage looking in their direction.  Dale and Tony get into some of the innovation on the plate-track cars in the Morgan-McClure stable. Tony talks about the revolutionary X-pipe exhaust system that was brought to them by Boyd Butler, better known as Dr. Gas. The story of how they kept the technical advantage a secret is incredible, including a non-disclosure agreement and wrapping the car in blankets in the garage. Ultimately a crash photo on the cover of Stock Car Racing Magazine leaked the guarded secret to the world. In ‘97, the desire to move up in rank and a little white lie from his wife convinced Tony to move on from Morgan-McClure and take a management position at SABCO Racing. Tony shares experiences from his years there.After a dismal season in 2011, Tony was released from the team and sought out a position at NASCAR through Mike Helton. In 2013, he became the overseeing technical director of NASCAR’s many touring series, a role he continues to fill today.  DIRTY AIR: ·        NASCAR’s big weeked at Bristol  ·        NextGen parts failures ·        Dirty Mo Fan Experience recap ·        Chris Buescher’s big win   ASKJR presented by Xfinity: ·        Impressions about the 2023 NASCAR Cup schedule ·        Downtown Chicago’s worries about upcoming street race ·        SAFER barriers at North Wilkesboro ·        Brandon Jones to JRM To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Everyone in stock car racing dreams of being on a Daytona 500-winning team, but how about three wins in five years? For Tony Glover, that dream became reality in the early 1990s, and on this week’s episode of The Dale Jr. Download, he joins Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis to discuss the pieces of the puzzle that made it possible.Glover has been a part of racing his entire life. He attended his first race at three weeks old. Tony recalls his earliest memory in racing, which consisted of his father Gene flying out of Cleveland Speedway in Tennessee. The trauma of seeing his father’s crash did little to deter his love for the sport though, and by his teenage years, Tony was cleaning parts and turning wrenches.After spending many years on the road crew chiefing for his father’s late model program, which yielded the 1979 NASCAR Sportsman National Championship, Tony accepted a position at Petty Enterprises. Tony explains that the year he spent in Level Cross, North Carolina was the equivalent of a four-year college education. But, when his grandmother became ill in ‘83, he decided to move closer to home to spend time with her. As fate would have it, Larry McClure and Tim Morgan had just bought out G.C. Spencer and established their Morgan-McClure outfit in nearby Abingdon, Virginia and Tony was hired to work as part of the pit crew. Tony shares the story of how he became a crew chief for the team when Spencer, who had stayed on in the chiefing role, quit suddenly during the teching process at an event at Nashville Fairgrounds. This bumped Tony into the position and he remained there for the duration of his time with the outfit. They discuss the revolving roster of drivers Morgan-McClure had during the ‘80s, which included Lennie Pond, Tommy Ellis, Joe Ruttman and Rick Wilson. Tony explains that when Rick departed for RahMoc after ‘89, his choice to fill the seat was the hard charging Ernie Irvan. And while Phil Parsons would start the ‘90 season in the cockpit, after a few failed outings Irvan would eventually get the seat and help put Morgan-McClure on the map.The Irvan-Glover combination was quite successful, bringing home seven Cup wins including the ‘91 Daytona 500, but would only last a few seasons as Irvan would depart for Robert Yates in ‘93. His replacement was a driver Tony was well acquainted with from his years in the late model scene: fellow Tennessean Sterling Marlin. The new pairing won in their first outing, the ‘94 Daytona 500. When they followed up with a back-to-back triumph in the Great American Race in ‘95, they had the entire NASCAR garage looking in their direction. Dale and Tony get into some of the innovation on the plate-track cars in the Morgan-McClure stable. Tony talks about the revolutionary X-pipe exhaust system that was brought to them by Boyd Butler, better known as Dr. Gas. The story of how they kept the technical advantage a secret is incredible, including a non-disclosure agreement and wrapping the car in blankets in the garage. Ultimately a crash photo on the cover of Stock Car Racing Magazine leaked the guarded secret to the world.In ‘97, the desire to move up in rank and a little white lie from his wife convinced Tony to move on from Morgan-McClure and take a management position at SABCO Racing. Tony shares experiences from his years there.After a dismal season in 2011, Tony was released from the team and sought out a position at NASCAR through Mike Helton. In 2013, he became the overseeing technical director of NASCAR’s many touring series, a role he continues to fill today.  DIRTY AIR:·        NASCAR’s big weeked at Bristol ·        NextGen parts failures·        Dirty Mo Fan Experience recap·        Chris Buescher’s big win ASKJR presented by Xfinity:·        Impressions about the 2023 NASCAR Cup schedule·        Downtown Chicago’s worries about upcoming street race·        SAFER barriers at North Wilkesboro·        Brandon Jones to JRM To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this week’s episode of the Dale Jr. Download, Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis catch up with one of his longtime competitors from the NASCAR Cup scene, Washington’s Greg Biffle. After a successful career in NASCAR that spanned nearly two decades, Biffle quietly exited the sport following the 2016 season. Biffle originally hails from Vancouver, Washington, where he spent his formative years working in an automotive machine shop that was owned by his father’s friend. As he became a teenager, Greg discovered his love for driving and going fast and it wasn’t long before he found trouble behind the wheel. In an effort to focus his need for speed into something productive, his father Jack suggested they attend the local Friday night street stock races at Portland Speedway. After their first outing, Greg was hooked and immediately purchased a 1974 Ford Torino to convert into a racecar.  Upon building his second street stock, Biffle began to have success at the track and along with it began getting noticed for his fabrication skills. This attention grew into a chassis fabrication business, and Greg went on to build over 50 race cars over the next few years. He also used his earnings to go late model racing and found victory lane many times at both Portland and Tri-City Raceway.  The story of how Greg got into NASCAR came when he decided to take the show on the road: heading south to Tucson, Arizona to participate in the NASCAR Winter Heat Series. It was there that he met and befriended NASCAR Hall of Famer Benny Parsons, who was impressed with the unknown racer’s performance. As the story goes, weeks later Parsons was conversing with Jack Roush in the garage area at Michigan International Speedway about Roush’s NASCAR Truck team. Parsons recommended Biffle to Roush, and soon after he received a call from Geoff Smith, who was president of Roush Racing at the time. After a lengthy chat, a contract was faxed over to Greg and the next two decades of his racing career were in motion. Greg and Dale speak on the decline of Roush Racing and the factors that led to the team getting behind the competition. Greg explains that the team failed to progress with the direction of the sport and that it took them a long time to catch up once they were behind. The lack of winning equipment ultimately played a role in Greg leaving Cup racing in 2016, which he explains was a year earlier than his contract stated.  The interview also touches on some of Greg’s rivalries over the years and the stories behind them. Greg details his dust-up with Jay Sauter at Richmond and the monetary fine and points penalty that fell on him because of it. As a result, when he and Kevin Harvick made contact at Bristol a year later in 2002, he knew he wanted to avoid a fight at all costs. They also discuss his famous feud with Boris Said at Watkins Glen in 2011, and how a perfectly thrown water bottle exploded into a huge blow-out.  Since leaving racing in 2016, Greg has made use of his time by owning and operating a rock quarry as well as a humane shelter. He spends a lot of time outdoors fishing and boating. He has also made time for some racing, including his successful return to the Truck Series for Kyle Busch Motorsports in 2019 and running in the 24 Hours of Lemons. While he still loves auto racing, he has learned to enjoy his weekends off and these days Greg Biffle is making the most of life.     DIRTY AIR Before Greg joins the show, Dale, Mike, Alex and Hannah discuss: North Wilkesboro to host the 2023 NASCAR All-Star Race.  Dale blowing the lid off of NASCAR’s silly season The future of Kyle Busch, KBM, and Tyler Reddick Bubba’s big win in Kansas   ASKJR presented by Xfinity This week the fans asked questions about: Other track revivals Bristol walk-out songs What makes Bristol so exciting Live reactions to the Kyle Busch announcement To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this week’s episode of the Dale Jr. Download, Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis catch up with one of his longtime competitors from the NASCAR Cup scene, Washington’s Greg Biffle. After a successful career in NASCAR that spanned nearly two decades, Biffle quietly exited the sport following the 2016 season.Biffle originally hails from Vancouver, Washington, where he spent his formative years working in an automotive machine shop that was owned by his father’s friend. As he became a teenager, Greg discovered his love for driving and going fast and it wasn’t long before he found trouble behind the wheel. In an effort to focus his need for speed into something productive, his father Jack suggested they attend the local Friday night street stock races at Portland Speedway. After their first outing, Greg was hooked and immediately purchased a 1974 Ford Torino to convert into a racecar. Upon building his second street stock, Biffle began to have success at the track and along with it began getting noticed for his fabrication skills. This attention grew into a chassis fabrication business, and Greg went on to build over 50 race cars over the next few years. He also used his earnings to go late model racing and found victory lane many times at both Portland and Tri-City Raceway. The story of how Greg got into NASCAR came when he decided to take the show on the road: heading south to Tucson, Arizona to participate in the NASCAR Winter Heat Series. It was there that he met and befriended NASCAR Hall of Famer Benny Parsons, who was impressed with the unknown racer’s performance. As the story goes, weeks later Parsons was conversing with Jack Roush in the garage area at Michigan International Speedway about Roush’s NASCAR Truck team. Parsons recommended Biffle to Roush, and soon after he received a call from Geoff Smith, who was president of Roush Racing at the time. After a lengthy chat, a contract was faxed over to Greg and the next two decades of his racing career were in motion.Greg and Dale speak on the decline of Roush Racing and the factors that led to the team getting behind the competition. Greg explains that the team failed to progress with the direction of the sport and that it took them a long time to catch up once they were behind. The lack of winning equipment ultimately played a role in Greg leaving Cup racing in 2016, which he explains was a year earlier than his contract stated. The interview also touches on some of Greg’s rivalries over the years and the stories behind them. Greg details his dust-up with Jay Sauter at Richmond and the monetary fine and points penalty that fell on him because of it. As a result, when he and Kevin Harvick made contact at Bristol a year later in 2002, he knew he wanted to avoid a fight at all costs. They also discuss his famous feud with Boris Said at Watkins Glen in 2011, and how a perfectly thrown water bottle exploded into a huge blow-out. Since leaving racing in 2016, Greg has made use of his time by owning and operating a rock quarry as well as a humane shelter. He spends a lot of time outdoors fishing and boating. He has also made time for some racing, including his successful return to the Truck Series for Kyle Busch Motorsports in 2019 and running in the 24 Hours of Lemons. While he still loves auto racing, he has learned to enjoy his weekends off and these days Greg Biffle is making the most of life.   DIRTY AIRBefore Greg joins the show, Dale, Mike, Alex and Hannah discuss: North Wilkesboro to host the 2023 NASCAR All-Star Race.  Dale blowing the lid off of NASCAR’s silly season The future of Kyle Busch, KBM, and Tyler Reddick Bubba’s big win in Kansas  ASKJR presented by XfinityThis week the fans asked questions about: Other track revivals Bristol walk-out songs What makes Bristol so exciting Live reactions to the Kyle Busch announcement To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dealing with the adversity that comes from being a race car driver requires resilience and nerves of steel. For Jimmy Blewett, it was a mentality he was born with, following in the footsteps of his hard-nosed grandfather, father, and older brother. On The Dale Jr. Download, Blewett joins Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis to discuss growing up in a tough household, racing in the modified ranks, and losing a loved one in motorsports. Hailing from Howell, New Jersey, the Blewetts have long been known for their rough and tumble nature. Jimmy recounts stories of his grandfather John dealing with unruly customers at the yard. He also shares episodes from his childhood following his father John Jr.’s racing career, where they were “banned for life” from many of the east coast’s finest race establishments due to pit melees.  Jimmy shares that initially his grandfather purchased a racecar for his uncle to drive, hoping that it would keep him out of trouble. But his father was so fascinated with the car that he ended up racing and became quite good. He would be a mainstay in the eastern modified ranks for decades, before retiring in the early 90s. About that time, Jimmy’s older brother John III was beginning his own impressive chapter of Blewett family racing history, and it would help pave the way for Jimmy to get on track as well. After getting into go-kart racing at the age of 14, he eventually wanted to build a street stock to run at his home track, Wall Stadium. But Grandpa Blewett disapproved, claiming that his running a street stock would embarrass the family, and one night the car disappeared from the shop, a mystery still unsolved. Through his brother’s help, Jimmy got the opportunity to test someone else’s car, and he was hooked. The story of how Jimmy came to get his first modified is epic, involving a failed effort to get a loan, having to bring his grandfather on as a co-signer, and winning a car show without an engine. Once he was able to scrape together a functioning race car, his challenges were far from over. His grandfather wanted him to start at the back of every race to gain on-track experience. This helped develop his driving ability, and before long Jimmy was a modified race winner. In fact, in his first two full seasons in modified competition at Wall Stadium, he brought home back-to-back season championships. Jimmy speaks candidly about his relationship with his grandfather and father, and how he felt he spent a lot of his career seeking their approval. He also speaks about the mentorship he received from his older brother John III, and how he helped raise Jimmy in the aftermath of his parent’s divorce. The two developed a healthy on-track rivalry, always racing each other for bragging rights of the highest placing Blewett. But as time would tell, no amount of conditioning or hardship could prepare the Blewett family for the loss on the horizon. In August 2007, the Blewett brothers were in competition at Thompson Speedway in Connecticut when Jimmy’s right-front tire was punctured, causing a head-on collision with the wall. Mayhem behind him ensued, and John and several other cars piled into Jimmy’s wrecked modified. Jimmy was knocked unconscious from the impact of the crash, but upon coming to he heard his brother’s screams and jumped out to try and save him. Unfortunately, John’s injuries would prove too critical and he passed away that evening at the age of 33. Suddenly, Jimmy’s entire life had changed and he had an insurmountable tragedy to deal with. DIRTY AIR Before Jimmy joins the show, Dale, Mike, Alex, and Hannah chat about: Isla and Nicole’s first day of school A weekend magnet fishing excursion Dale’s late model race at North Wilkesboro  The exciting NASCAR weekend at Darlington ASKJR presented by Xfinity This week the fans asked questions about: If Dale has a love for pixie sticks like Mike Davis Staying focused in loud environments Favorite dishes for grilling out   To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dealing with the adversity that comes from being a race car driver requires resilience and nerves of steel. For Jimmy Blewett, it was a mentality he was born with, following in the footsteps of his hard-nosed grandfather, father, and older brother. On The Dale Jr. Download, Blewett joins Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis to discuss growing up in a tough household, racing in the modified ranks, and losing a loved one in motorsports.Hailing from Howell, New Jersey, the Blewetts have long been known for their rough and tumble nature. Jimmy recounts stories of his grandfather John dealing with unruly customers at the yard. He also shares episodes from his childhood following his father John Jr.’s racing career, where they were “banned for life” from many of the east coast’s finest race establishments due to pit melees. Jimmy shares that initially his grandfather purchased a racecar for his uncle to drive, hoping that it would keep him out of trouble. But his father was so fascinated with the car that he ended up racing and became quite good. He would be a mainstay in the eastern modified ranks for decades, before retiring in the early 90s. About that time, Jimmy’s older brother John III was beginning his own impressive chapter of Blewett family racing history, and it would help pave the way for Jimmy to get on track as well.After getting into go-kart racing at the age of 14, he eventually wanted to build a street stock to run at his home track, Wall Stadium. But Grandpa Blewett disapproved, claiming that his running a street stock would embarrass the family, and one night the car disappeared from the shop, a mystery still unsolved. Through his brother’s help, Jimmy got the opportunity to test someone else’s car, and he was hooked.The story of how Jimmy came to get his first modified is epic, involving a failed effort to get a loan, having to bring his grandfather on as a co-signer, and winning a car show without an engine. Once he was able to scrape together a functioning race car, his challenges were far from over. His grandfather wanted him to start at the back of every race to gain on-track experience. This helped develop his driving ability, and before long Jimmy was a modified race winner. In fact, in his first two full seasons in modified competition at Wall Stadium, he brought home back-to-back season championships.Jimmy speaks candidly about his relationship with his grandfather and father, and how he felt he spent a lot of his career seeking their approval. He also speaks about the mentorship he received from his older brother John III, and how he helped raise Jimmy in the aftermath of his parent’s divorce. The two developed a healthy on-track rivalry, always racing each other for bragging rights of the highest placing Blewett. But as time would tell, no amount of conditioning or hardship could prepare the Blewett family for the loss on the horizon.In August 2007, the Blewett brothers were in competition at Thompson Speedway in Connecticut when Jimmy’s right-front tire was punctured, causing a head-on collision with the wall. Mayhem behind him ensued, and John and several other cars piled into Jimmy’s wrecked modified. Jimmy was knocked unconscious from the impact of the crash, but upon coming to he heard his brother’s screams and jumped out to try and save him. Unfortunately, John’s injuries would prove too critical and he passed away that evening at the age of 33. Suddenly, Jimmy’s entire life had changed and he had an insurmountable tragedy to deal with.DIRTY AIRBefore Jimmy joins the show, Dale, Mike, Alex, and Hannah chat about: Isla and Nicole’s first day of school A weekend magnet fishing excursion Dale’s late model race at North Wilkesboro  The exciting NASCAR weekend at Darlington ASKJR presented by XfinityThis week the fans asked questions about: If Dale has a love for pixie sticks like Mike Davis Staying focused in loud environments Favorite dishes for grilling out   To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On today’s episode of the Dale Jr. Download, we have a special bonus episode live from North Wilkesboro Speedway. On Wednesday, August 31st, Dale Jr. hosted a Q&A session with 7 late model drivers.  Brandon Pierce (3:30) Hayden Swank (16:46) Kaden Honeycutt (23:41) Carter Langley (33:00) Dylon Wilson (41:!5) Stefan Parsons (52:28) Katie Hettinger (1:06:24) Brandon Pierce just sounds like a race car driver's name, doesn’t it? Maybe that’s why one of the greatest late model drivers of all time, Lee Pulliam tabbed Pierce to drive for him. Pierce and Dale Jr. talk about turning their first laps at North Wilkesboro and how they plan to set their cars up for the race. Plus Brandon lays a friendly wager on Dale…and Dale does him one better. Hayden Swank is from Woodstock, GA. To some racing fans is relatively unknown but you better start paying attention. Swank grew up racing with up-and-coming Truck Series winners, Corey Heim and Chandler Smith.  Kaden Honeycutt is from Texas but many fans in North Carolina may know him as the occasional from in the NASCAR Truck Series for On Point Motorsports. Kaden’s dream is to move up the ladder and race in the Cup Series no matter what car it is. His passion is racing but his hidden talent is that he can get Dale to spill the beans on his future racing plans.  Carter Langley is a newcomer to the CARS Tour. He grew up racing Go-Karts for Elliott and Hermie Sadler and is a true late model historian. He and Dale talked about all the old-school local track heroes and how they’re still idolized today. Plus Carter shares his future aspirations if driving doesn’t pan out.  Dylon Wilson is Landon Huffman’s, right-hand man. Well in the content game that is. Wilson has a knack for content as well and his personality makes it natural for him. Wilson’s family roots are deep at North Wilkesboro Speedway, his great grandfather helped build the place. Dylon jokes he’s probably ridden more laps around this place on a bicycle than anyone. He had lived outside turn 3 for most of his life.  Stefan Parsons is a name most of you will recognize. His Dad is Phil Parson and his uncle is Benny Parsons. Stefon and Dale talk about that upbringing as Phil’s son and trying to follow the footsteps his dad and uncle carved out. Plus Stefon shares a story of a short track fight Phil got into during one of Stefon’s races. Katie Hettinger was the last driver to take the stage but she was certainly not the least. In fact, she’s the winningest female driver in Hickory Motor Speedway history. Katie is still in high school where she is on the varsity volleyball and basketball…in Michigan. That’s right she and her family travel from Michigan every weekend to compete in the southeast. She’s a name to watch in the next coming years for sure. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On today’s episode of the Dale Jr. Download, we have a special bonus episode live from North Wilkesboro Speedway. On Wednesday, August 31st, Dale Jr. hosted a Q&A session with 7 late model drivers. Brandon Pierce (3:30)Hayden Swank (16:46)Kaden Honeycutt (23:41)Carter Langley (33:00)Dylon Wilson (41:!5)Stefan Parsons (52:28)Katie Hettinger (1:06:24)Brandon Pierce just sounds like a race car driver's name, doesn’t it? Maybe that’s why one of the greatest late model drivers of all time, Lee Pulliam tabbed Pierce to drive for him. Pierce and Dale Jr. talk about turning their first laps at North Wilkesboro and how they plan to set their cars up for the race. Plus Brandon lays a friendly wager on Dale…and Dale does him one better.Hayden Swank is from Woodstock, GA. To some racing fans is relatively unknown but you better start paying attention. Swank grew up racing with up-and-coming Truck Series winners, Corey Heim and Chandler Smith. Kaden Honeycutt is from Texas but many fans in North Carolina may know him as the occasional from in the NASCAR Truck Series for On Point Motorsports. Kaden’s dream is to move up the ladder and race in the Cup Series no matter what car it is. His passion is racing but his hidden talent is that he can get Dale to spill the beans on his future racing plans. Carter Langley is a newcomer to the CARS Tour. He grew up racing Go-Karts for Elliott and Hermie Sadler and is a true late model historian. He and Dale talked about all the old-school local track heroes and how they’re still idolized today. Plus Carter shares his future aspirations if driving doesn’t pan out. Dylon Wilson is Landon Huffman’s, right-hand man. Well in the content game that is. Wilson has a knack for content as well and his personality makes it natural for him. Wilson’s family roots are deep at North Wilkesboro Speedway, his great grandfather helped build the place. Dylon jokes he’s probably ridden more laps around this place on a bicycle than anyone. He had lived outside turn 3 for most of his life. Stefan Parsons is a name most of you will recognize. His Dad is Phil Parson and his uncle is Benny Parsons. Stefon and Dale talk about that upbringing as Phil’s son and trying to follow the footsteps his dad and uncle carved out. Plus Stefon shares a story of a short track fight Phil got into during one of Stefon’s races.Katie Hettinger was the last driver to take the stage but she was certainly not the least. In fact, she’s the winningest female driver in Hickory Motor Speedway history. Katie is still in high school where she is on the varsity volleyball and basketball…in Michigan. That’s right she and her family travel from Michigan every weekend to compete in the southeast. She’s a name to watch in the next coming years for sure. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On today’s episode of the Dale Jr. Download, we have a special bonus episode live from North Wilkesboro Speedway. On Tuesday, August 30th, Dale Jr. hosted a Q&A session with 6 late model drivers.  Brenden Queen (2:46) Bobby McCarty (11:47) Connor Hall (20:44) Brian Obiedzenski (30:43) Chad McCumbee (40:08) Landon Huffman (52:28) Brenden Queen hails from the Virginia Beach area. You can catch him racing weekly at Langley Speedway driving the #03 car with Mario characters painted all over it. Dale and Brenden discussed the car and its unique font style, making Brenden a favorite amongst the younger generation of race fans. They also discussed his famous nickname “Butterbean.” Bobby McCarty is just 29 years old but considers himself the old guy on the CARS tour. Before hopping on stage with Dale Jr., Bobby was hard at work making sure his car was ready for practice, showing the true grassroots of the CARS tour. Bobby attempted to qualify for his first Xfinity Series race earlier this year in New Hampshire. He talked about how that deal came about and what future plans he might have to try the series again. Connor Hall is Elliott Sadler’s favorite race car driver. The multiple-time Cup series winner and former JR Motorsports driver has high praise for Connor and believes his talent is real. Dale Jr and Connor talked about Connor's knack for finding sponsors, his journey from a small family team to racing for Chad Bryant, and how to make it all work on a small family-sized budget.  Brian Obiedzenski may have a difficult name to pronounce, but his personality is hard to forget. Dale and Brian first connected over Twitter DMing back and forth about car parts. Brian is a limited late model driver, but by trade, he’s been a Cadillac service technician for 20 years. Dale and Brian shared stories from their days as service techs and talked about why Brian uses the #29 because of Kevin Harvick. Chad McCumbee is possibly one of the more interesting stories on the CARS Tour. Not only did Chad portray Dale Jr. in the ESPN movie “3”. But Chad drove cars as a stunt driver in the film “Talladega Nights.” That’s right Chad McCumbee was the real-life Ricky Bobby and Cal Naughton Jr. In addition, Chad talked about his transition to an ownership role in Sports Car on the IMSA circuit and how his journey through the ranks have NASCAR has prepared him to be an owner. Landon Huffman’s content game is second to none in asphalt racing. The third-generation driver has the personality to stand out and attract fans and sponsors like no other. Maybe that’s the reason Dale Jr. approached Landon to sponsor his Limited Late Model with High Rock Vodka colors. The two talked about how that deal came together, plus Landon’s impending track championship at Hickory Motor Speedway.  To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On today’s episode of the Dale Jr. Download, we have a special bonus episode live from North Wilkesboro Speedway. On Tuesday, August 30th, Dale Jr. hosted a Q&A session with 6 late model drivers. Brenden Queen (2:46)Bobby McCarty (11:47)Connor Hall (20:44)Brian Obiedzenski (30:43)Chad McCumbee (40:08)Landon Huffman (52:28)Brenden Queen hails from the Virginia Beach area. You can catch him racing weekly at Langley Speedway driving the #03 car with Mario characters painted all over it. Dale and Brenden discussed the car and its unique font style, making Brenden a favorite amongst the younger generation of race fans. They also discussed his famous nickname “Butterbean.”Bobby McCarty is just 29 years old but considers himself the old guy on the CARS tour. Before hopping on stage with Dale Jr., Bobby was hard at work making sure his car was ready for practice, showing the true grassroots of the CARS tour. Bobby attempted to qualify for his first Xfinity Series race earlier this year in New Hampshire. He talked about how that deal came about and what future plans he might have to try the series again.Connor Hall is Elliott Sadler’s favorite race car driver. The multiple-time Cup series winner and former JR Motorsports driver has high praise for Connor and believes his talent is real. Dale Jr and Connor talked about Connor's knack for finding sponsors, his journey from a small family team to racing for Chad Bryant, and how to make it all work on a small family-sized budget. Brian Obiedzenski may have a difficult name to pronounce, but his personality is hard to forget. Dale and Brian first connected over Twitter DMing back and forth about car parts. Brian is a limited late model driver, but by trade, he’s been a Cadillac service technician for 20 years. Dale and Brian shared stories from their days as service techs and talked about why Brian uses the #29 because of Kevin Harvick.Chad McCumbee is possibly one of the more interesting stories on the CARS Tour. Not only did Chad portray Dale Jr. in the ESPN movie “3”. But Chad drove cars as a stunt driver in the film “Talladega Nights.” That’s right Chad McCumbee was the real-life Ricky Bobby and Cal Naughton Jr. In addition, Chad talked about his transition to an ownership role in Sports Car on the IMSA circuit and how his journey through the ranks have NASCAR has prepared him to be an owner.Landon Huffman’s content game is second to none in asphalt racing. The third-generation driver has the personality to stand out and attract fans and sponsors like no other. Maybe that’s the reason Dale Jr. approached Landon to sponsor his Limited Late Model with High Rock Vodka colors. The two talked about how that deal came together, plus Landon’s impending track championship at Hickory Motor Speedway.  To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

As drivers follow their trajectory through motorsports, they are often faced with potentially life-changing decisions. On episode 397 of the Dale Jr. Download, Indycar talent Conor Daly joins Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis to discuss a crossroads he faced and how his choice affected his career path. After winning the Star Mazda Championship in 2010 and securing a hefty scholarship fund to invest in his future racing endeavors, Daly had to make the selection of a lifetime: pursue Formula One or Indycar?   Son of former Formula One driver Derek Daly and Indianapolis Motor Speedway employee Beth Boles, Conor was no stranger to auto racing. In fact, he begins by saying that he has hardly any early-life memories that don’t involve racing. He recalled his time spent at the Racing Babies childcare facility at IMS and his early infatuation with the sport. He also spoke of his father’s racing career, which ended when he was born in 1991, and how he has been able to uncover more of his accomplishments through the digital age.  Up to that point in 2010, Conor had rapidly progressed up the opening rungs of the motorsports ladder. From his first time behind the wheel of a go-kart at age 10 to winning the 2006 World Karting Association Grand Nationals, he and his father Derek worked tirelessly on his burgeoning career. From karts, he took on car racing through the Skip Barber National Championship, which he won in his first year in 2008. Then came the Star Mazda circuit, which of course brings the story to that crossroads at the end of the 2010 season.  A stipulation of Conor’s scholarship and the Road to Indy program was that while he could take part of the money and pursue GP3 racing in Europe, he still needed to enter a handful of Indy Lights events. After the first three events of the schedule, competing for Sam Schmidt Motorsports, Conor found himself with a 2nd place finish and a victory and leading the season points. His prospects in the world of Indycar were so high, that he revealed he actually got a call from Graham Rahal as he was about to depart for Europe, asking him, “are you sure you want to do this?”  Ultimately, Conor left the United States and departed for England, where he’d stay with Rahal’s stepfather Chris Berry and set up a home base for his time spent racing in GP3. Daly explained that in his debut GP3 race he qualified 29th and was immediately hit with the regret of his decision. In his absence in the Indy Lights series, Josef Newgarden would go on to win the championship and sign a three-year contract with Sarah Fisher Hartman Racing. And while Daly would wind up inking a deal with the Force India Formula One team that would have him serve as a test and reserve driver, his time overseas would prove unfruitful, and he returned home to pursue a path in Indycar.  Conor and Dale Jr. discuss Europe’s perspective on American racers and theorize as to why it is difficult for them to break into the Formula racing ladder. After returning home, Daly did whatever he could to be at the tracks on race weekends, even at one point driving the Indycar two-seater for fan experiences. His perseverance would eventually win out, as he rose from filling in for injured drivers to racing part-time and now full-time for Ed Carpenter Racing.  Daly took time to speak on the ascension from spending his childhood at IMS to racing in the Indianapolis 500. Just this past May in the 106th running of the “Greatest Spectacle in Racing”, the hometown hero brought home his best finish to date, sixth place.  DIRTY AIR Before Conor joins the show, Dale, Mike, Alex, and Hannah chat about: Kelley’s birthday bash Long weekend in Daytona The great Cup race rain debacle  Kurt Busch’s injury progress ASKJR presented by Xfinity This week the fans asked questions about: Strangest excuse to explain a crash Feelings on Greg Ives’ leaving as crew chief Updates on his ongoing car projects Championship Four predictions To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

As drivers follow their trajectory through motorsports, they are often faced with potentially life-changing decisions. On episode 397 of the Dale Jr. Download, Indycar talent Conor Daly joins Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis to discuss a crossroads he faced and how his choice affected his career path. After winning the Star Mazda Championship in 2010 and securing a hefty scholarship fund to invest in his future racing endeavors, Daly had to make the selection of a lifetime: pursue Formula One or Indycar?  Son of former Formula One driver Derek Daly and Indianapolis Motor Speedway employee Beth Boles, Conor was no stranger to auto racing. In fact, he begins by saying that he has hardly any early-life memories that don’t involve racing. He recalled his time spent at the Racing Babies childcare facility at IMS and his early infatuation with the sport. He also spoke of his father’s racing career, which ended when he was born in 1991, and how he has been able to uncover more of his accomplishments through the digital age. Up to that point in 2010, Conor had rapidly progressed up the opening rungs of the motorsports ladder. From his first time behind the wheel of a go-kart at age 10 to winning the 2006 World Karting Association Grand Nationals, he and his father Derek worked tirelessly on his burgeoning career. From karts, he took on car racing through the Skip Barber National Championship, which he won in his first year in 2008. Then came the Star Mazda circuit, which of course brings the story to that crossroads at the end of the 2010 season. A stipulation of Conor’s scholarship and the Road to Indy program was that while he could take part of the money and pursue GP3 racing in Europe, he still needed to enter a handful of Indy Lights events. After the first three events of the schedule, competing for Sam Schmidt Motorsports, Conor found himself with a 2nd place finish and a victory and leading the season points. His prospects in the world of Indycar were so high, that he revealed he actually got a call from Graham Rahal as he was about to depart for Europe, asking him, “are you sure you want to do this?” Ultimately, Conor left the United States and departed for England, where he’d stay with Rahal’s stepfather Chris Berry and set up a home base for his time spent racing in GP3. Daly explained that in his debut GP3 race he qualified 29th and was immediately hit with the regret of his decision. In his absence in the Indy Lights series, Josef Newgarden would go on to win the championship and sign a three-year contract with Sarah Fisher Hartman Racing. And while Daly would wind up inking a deal with the Force India Formula One team that would have him serve as a test and reserve driver, his time overseas would prove unfruitful, and he returned home to pursue a path in Indycar. Conor and Dale Jr. discuss Europe’s perspective on American racers and theorize as to why it is difficult for them to break into the Formula racing ladder. After returning home, Daly did whatever he could to be at the tracks on race weekends, even at one point driving the Indycar two-seater for fan experiences. His perseverance would eventually win out, as he rose from filling in for injured drivers to racing part-time and now full-time for Ed Carpenter Racing. Daly took time to speak on the ascension from spending his childhood at IMS to racing in the Indianapolis 500. Just this past May in the 106th running of the “Greatest Spectacle in Racing”, the hometown hero brought home his best finish to date, sixth place. DIRTY AIRBefore Conor joins the show, Dale, Mike, Alex, and Hannah chat about: Kelley’s birthday bash Long weekend in Daytona The great Cup race rain debacle  Kurt Busch’s injury progress ASKJR presented by XfinityThis week the fans asked questions about: Strangest excuse to explain a crash Feelings on Greg Ives’ leaving as crew chief Updates on his ongoing car projects Championship Four predictions To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Conor Daly and Joey Mulinaro return for another episode of Speed Street to recap the rain-delayed Gateway race. The guys talk about Conor’s mechanical issues that plagued his top-10 finish, Felix Rosenqvist’s potentially jumped start, and the race’s TV ratings on USA Network, then, they bring on former F2 competitor and driver of the No. 77 Juncos Hollinger Racing car, Callum Ilott, to discuss his transition to IndyCar, developing a new team as a rookie, his top three likes and dislikes of living in America since moving from the UK, and Joey’s new merch idea for the lad, finally, the duo talks about Kimi Raikkonen’s NASCAR Cup Series race at Watkins Glen and the drama between Chase Elliott and Kyle Larson. Follow @SpeedStreetpod and @Dirtymomedia on Instagram and Twitter. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Conor Daly and Joey Mulinaro return for another episode of Speed Street to recap the rain-delayed Gateway race. The guys talk about Conor’s mechanical issues that plagued his top-10 finish, Felix Rosenqvist’s potentially jumped start, and the race’s TV ratings on USA Network, then, they bring on former F2 competitor and driver of the No. 77 Juncos Hollinger Racing car, Callum Ilott, to discuss his transition to IndyCar, developing a new team as a rookie, his top three likes and dislikes of living in America since moving from the UK, and Joey’s new merch idea for the lad, finally, the duo talks about Kimi Raikkonen’s NASCAR Cup Series race at Watkins Glen and the drama between Chase Elliott and Kyle Larson.Follow @SpeedStreetpod and @Dirtymomedia on Instagram and Twitter. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this week’s episode of The Dale Jr. Download, Query sits down with Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis to talk about that racing landscape and how he rose to prominence there.  Dale prefaced the interview by describing Freddie as someone he both looked up to and was intimidated by while growing up at the Carolina short tracks. Query’s reputation as a hard racer and champion preceded him for many years. But like most short-track racers, he came from humble, quiet beginnings in Kannapolis. In fact, Freddie explained that he shared a first-grade classroom with another Kannapolis racing legend, Dale Earnhardt Sr. himself. The two even ran go-karts together in their pre-teen years on a crude dirt track a neighbor had carved out on his property. Ultimately, the two drivers had vastly different life trajectories, and their connection remained pleasant but distant. While finishing high school, Freddie had ambitions to attend college to be an engineer, but after getting married during his senior year his life changed direction. He began attending a tech school and taking trade programs, and when the local school district wanted to begin implementing trade classes on a high school level, Query found himself in a teaching position, one he would hold for 20 years.  The go-kart he raced at age 10 was built from a bed frame rail and propelled by his father’s lawn mower engine. His mechanical wonder carried on to his teenage years when he began “borrowing” the family car to enter street races, unbeknownst to his parents. But his path in racing would have stalled out on the streets of Kannapolis, had he not started attending local races at the recommendation of a neighbor. After buying a new house as a teacher, he became acquainted with the folks next store, who were avid racing fans attending events multiple nights a week. He took a trip to Hickory Speedway with them and was hooked from the get-go, deciding then he wanted to be a part of the sport. The neighbor was one step ahead, installing a race shop in his backyard, and soon Freddie was out there with him every night of the week. The two built a street stock and took it to Metrolina on a Friday night, with the neighbor hopping in the driver’s seat. But the following evening, when they had planned to try Hickory, the neighbor was too tired from the previous night’s action and turned the driving duties over to Freddie. And while he ended up flipping due to an aggressive move to pass, the racing bug had bit him, and the course for his next 30 years was set. In the early 1980s he was a dominant force in the six-cylinder division, before moving up to super late models in '85. Freddie was recognized by his red No.6 hot rod which he drove to countless victories. When Concord received the blacktop treatment towards the end of the '86 season, Freddie was prepared to say goodbye to the track he had so much success at, but when Coors threatened to reduce their sponsorship, he decided to give the asphalt another go. Hence would begin the most dominant period in the track’s history. From 1988 to 1992, Freddie brought home 4 out of 5 track championships, while battling it out with the likes of Jack Sprague, Rich Bickle and Robbie Faggart. His success in the high-paying Big-10 Series helped propel him to bigger events, and in '93 he began running with the NASCAR All-Pro tour. He brought home major victories in the Myrtle Beach 400 and All-American 400, as well as the '98 All-Pro season championship before settling into a car builder/mentor role. He went on to assist the likes of Hank Parker Jr., Johanna Long, Harrison Burton and many more before retiring from competitive racing. Today, Freddie still dabbles in go-kart racing and car repair but basks in the glory of his storied career and the acclaim that comes with it.  To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this week’s episode of The Dale Jr. Download, Query sits down with Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis to talk about that racing landscape and how he rose to prominence there. Dale prefaced the interview by describing Freddie as someone he both looked up to and was intimidated by while growing up at the Carolina short tracks. Query’s reputation as a hard racer and champion preceded him for many years. But like most short-track racers, he came from humble, quiet beginnings in Kannapolis. In fact, Freddie explained that he shared a first-grade classroom with another Kannapolis racing legend, Dale Earnhardt Sr. himself. The two even ran go-karts together in their pre-teen years on a crude dirt track a neighbor had carved out on his property. Ultimately, the two drivers had vastly different life trajectories, and their connection remained pleasant but distant.While finishing high school, Freddie had ambitions to attend college to be an engineer, but after getting married during his senior year his life changed direction. He began attending a tech school and taking trade programs, and when the local school district wanted to begin implementing trade classes on a high school level, Query found himself in a teaching position, one he would hold for 20 years. The go-kart he raced at age 10 was built from a bed frame rail and propelled by his father’s lawn mower engine. His mechanical wonder carried on to his teenage years when he began “borrowing” the family car to enter street races, unbeknownst to his parents. But his path in racing would have stalled out on the streets of Kannapolis, had he not started attending local races at the recommendation of a neighbor.After buying a new house as a teacher, he became acquainted with the folks next store, who were avid racing fans attending events multiple nights a week. He took a trip to Hickory Speedway with them and was hooked from the get-go, deciding then he wanted to be a part of the sport. The neighbor was one step ahead, installing a race shop in his backyard, and soon Freddie was out there with him every night of the week. The two built a street stock and took it to Metrolina on a Friday night, with the neighbor hopping in the driver’s seat. But the following evening, when they had planned to try Hickory, the neighbor was too tired from the previous night’s action and turned the driving duties over to Freddie. And while he ended up flipping due to an aggressive move to pass, the racing bug had bit him, and the course for his next 30 years was set.In the early 1980s he was a dominant force in the six-cylinder division, before moving up to super late models in '85. Freddie was recognized by his red No.6 hot rod which he drove to countless victories. When Concord received the blacktop treatment towards the end of the '86 season, Freddie was prepared to say goodbye to the track he had so much success at, but when Coors threatened to reduce their sponsorship, he decided to give the asphalt another go. Hence would begin the most dominant period in the track’s history.From 1988 to 1992, Freddie brought home 4 out of 5 track championships, while battling it out with the likes of Jack Sprague, Rich Bickle and Robbie Faggart. His success in the high-paying Big-10 Series helped propel him to bigger events, and in '93 he began running with the NASCAR All-Pro tour. He brought home major victories in the Myrtle Beach 400 and All-American 400, as well as the '98 All-Pro season championship before settling into a car builder/mentor role. He went on to assist the likes of Hank Parker Jr., Johanna Long, Harrison Burton and many more before retiring from competitive racing. Today, Freddie still dabbles in go-kart racing and car repair but basks in the glory of his storied career and the acclaim that comes with it.  To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Once called “the miracle on the beach,” Synanon began in the 1960s as an experimental rehab facility in Santa Monica, California with a radical claim: It could cure heroin addiction. Before long, it would make an even bolder claim: It could cure any of your problems. All you had to do was move in. What started in a house on the beach, soon spread to compounds across the country. The man who made the miracle happen, Charles E. Dederich, aka “Chuck,” would be the one to destroy it all, along with the lives of many of his followers and millions of dollars in assets. The Sunshine Place tells the mind-blowing, true story of Synanon - one of America’s most cutting-edge social experiments, turned into one of its most dangerous and violent cults - as it’s never been told before: by the people who lived it. Executive Produced by Robert Downey Jr., Susan Downey, and Emily Barclay Ford for Team Downey and C13Originals, together with Josh McLaughlin for Wink Pictures, and written, produced, and directed by Peabody-nominated C13Originals, a Cadence13 Studio. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Once called “the miracle on the beach,” Synanon began in the 1960s as an experimental rehab facility in Santa Monica, California with a radical claim: It could cure heroin addiction. Before long, it would make an even bolder claim: It could cure any of your problems. All you had to do was move in. What started in a house on the beach, soon spread to compounds across the country. The man who made the miracle happen, Charles E. Dederich, aka “Chuck,” would be the one to destroy it all, along with the lives of many of his followers and millions of dollars in assets. The Sunshine Place tells the mind-blowing, true story of Synanon - one of America’s most cutting-edge social experiments, turned into one of its most dangerous and violent cults - as it’s never been told before: by the people who lived it. Executive Produced by Robert Downey Jr., Susan Downey, and Emily Barclay Ford for Team Downey and C13Originals, together with Josh McLaughlin for Wink Pictures, and written, produced, and directed by Peabody-nominated C13Originals, a Cadence13 Studio. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

At the end of the 2007 NASCAR Cup season, Michael “Fatback” McSwain suddenly departed from the garage scene, leaving a void once filled by one of the most colorful personalities in the modern stock car era. On this week’s Dale Jr. Download, McSwain joins Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis to discuss the decision to leave the sport, as well as the path he traveled to get to the top. Coming from the humble home of a phone company worker, McSwain did not grow from racing roots. After graduating from high school with no real direction, he decided to travel to Nashville to attend a diesel mechanic’s college. It was during this time that he became familiar with racing and upon returning back to North Carolina, he wanted to give it a shot himself. He and his father built a demolition derby car for the Cleveland County Fair, and had so much fun in the process that they embarked on six-cylinder racing at Cherokee Speedway. But the further they got into the racing, the more expensive it got, and soon McSwain was left to find solutions to subsidize his own on-track endeavors. He began working on other people’s race cars, ultimately finding a spot in the Robert Gee garage where a local racer was working on a NASCAR Sportsman Division ride. McSwain explained that working under Gee was very influential and taught him a lot in a short amount of time. It also helped him realize that he wanted to work in auto racing full-time. McSwain recalled driving to many different race shops and turning in applications before finally getting a call from Lake Speed’s racing operation to come and work as a fabricator. This would be his first experience working on a Cup car, and over the next few seasons he would bounce from operation to operation, spending time working under legends such as Harry Hyde and Cale Yarborough before finally ending up with Ricky Rudd at Rudd Racing Enterprises. In 2000, Rudd inked a deal to race with Yates Racing, and McSwain assumed he was once again on the job hunt. However, a few days before his honeymoon he received a call of a lifetime from Robert Yates offering him the crew chief position. McSwain explains he cut his honeymoon a few days short because he was excited to get to work in a real, full-time race shop.  The Rudd/McSwain duo delivered “Fatback'' his first Cup victory in June 2001 at Pocono Raceway. McSwain shares a story of how the car came together after a mad scramble the week of the race, and the result was a completely dominant performance. He also shares a hilarious encounter with Kevin Harvick during the waning laps of the September Richmond race that same season, a situation that may have landed him in serious hot water had it come to fruition. When the decision was made to release Rudd and bring in Elliott Sadler, McSwain jumped ship and headed to Joe Gibbs Racing to man the pit box for Bobby Labonte. All was far from well though, and rising turmoil amongst the team would leave McSwain without a job. The conversation deals a lot with driver/crew chief relationships and dialogue, and McSwain offers up stories of disagreements he had with Rudd and Bobby Labonte over the years. He explains that driver attitudes over the radio during a race can affect a whole team, and when the situation reached a breaking point he felt inclined to intervene. Finally, the interview covers McSwain’s seemingly abrupt departure from the NASCAR garage scene following the 2007 season. He explains that having growing children at home influenced his decision, but now that they’re older he is open to a return to the racing world. DIRTY AIR Before Michael joins the show, Dale, Mike, Alex and Hannah discuss: •          Magnet fishing •          Wild world of TikTok •          Chris(topher) Buescher •          Roots & Revival  ASKJR presented by Xfinity: •          Racing on dirt •          Are drivers retiring earlier? •          What FOX scheduled race would you like to call? •          Bingeable television shows To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

At the end of the 2007 NASCAR Cup season, Michael “Fatback” McSwain suddenly departed from the garage scene, leaving a void once filled by one of the most colorful personalities in the modern stock car era. On this week’s Dale Jr. Download, McSwain joins Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis to discuss the decision to leave the sport, as well as the path he traveled to get to the top.Coming from the humble home of a phone company worker, McSwain did not grow from racing roots. After graduating from high school with no real direction, he decided to travel to Nashville to attend a diesel mechanic’s college. It was during this time that he became familiar with racing and upon returning back to North Carolina, he wanted to give it a shot himself. He and his father built a demolition derby car for the Cleveland County Fair, and had so much fun in the process that they embarked on six-cylinder racing at Cherokee Speedway.But the further they got into the racing, the more expensive it got, and soon McSwain was left to find solutions to subsidize his own on-track endeavors. He began working on other people’s race cars, ultimately finding a spot in the Robert Gee garage where a local racer was working on a NASCAR Sportsman Division ride. McSwain explained that working under Gee was very influential and taught him a lot in a short amount of time. It also helped him realize that he wanted to work in auto racing full-time.McSwain recalled driving to many different race shops and turning in applications before finally getting a call from Lake Speed’s racing operation to come and work as a fabricator. This would be his first experience working on a Cup car, and over the next few seasons he would bounce from operation to operation, spending time working under legends such as Harry Hyde and Cale Yarborough before finally ending up with Ricky Rudd at Rudd Racing Enterprises.In 2000, Rudd inked a deal to race with Yates Racing, and McSwain assumed he was once again on the job hunt. However, a few days before his honeymoon he received a call of a lifetime from Robert Yates offering him the crew chief position. McSwain explains he cut his honeymoon a few days short because he was excited to get to work in a real, full-time race shop. The Rudd/McSwain duo delivered “Fatback'' his first Cup victory in June 2001 at Pocono Raceway. McSwain shares a story of how the car came together after a mad scramble the week of the race, and the result was a completely dominant performance. He also shares a hilarious encounter with Kevin Harvick during the waning laps of the September Richmond race that same season, a situation that may have landed him in serious hot water had it come to fruition.When the decision was made to release Rudd and bring in Elliott Sadler, McSwain jumped ship and headed to Joe Gibbs Racing to man the pit box for Bobby Labonte. All was far from well though, and rising turmoil amongst the team would leave McSwain without a job. The conversation deals a lot with driver/crew chief relationships and dialogue, and McSwain offers up stories of disagreements he had with Rudd and Bobby Labonte over the years. He explains that driver attitudes over the radio during a race can affect a whole team, and when the situation reached a breaking point he felt inclined to intervene.Finally, the interview covers McSwain’s seemingly abrupt departure from the NASCAR garage scene following the 2007 season. He explains that having growing children at home influenced his decision, but now that they’re older he is open to a return to the racing world.DIRTY AIRBefore Michael joins the show, Dale, Mike, Alex and Hannah discuss:•          Magnet fishing•          Wild world of TikTok•          Chris(topher) Buescher•          Roots & Revival ASKJR presented by Xfinity:•          Racing on dirt•          Are drivers retiring earlier?•          What FOX scheduled race would you like to call?•          Bingeable television shows To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In just a few short seasons, Ty Gibbs went from winning in the periphery of the stock car world to becoming one of the most polarizing characters in the NASCAR garage. On this week’s episode of The Dale Jr. Download, Ty joins Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis in the Bojangles Studio to discuss his meteoric rise to becoming a focal point in motorsports. Gibbs stunned onlookers when he won the February 2021 NASCAR Xfinity Series event at the Daytona Road Course, in what was his first attempt in the division. After starting deep in the pack on a late restart, Gibbs put on a driving display that saw him pass several cars and even drive through the grass to take the point, holding off accomplished road racer Austin Cindric in the process. The victory would make history, as it made Gibbs the first driver in the modern NASCAR era to win a national series event in his first attempt.  While Ty has come off as soft-spoken in many of his public interviews, he gives The Download listeners a rare look into his home life, filling Dale and Mike in about his siblings and new townhouse. After Kurt Busch’s recent hard crash at Pocono, Ty received the call to fill in at the last moment, minutes after finishing second in the Saturday afternoon Xfinity event. He explained that to best prepare for the challenge of driving a car he had zero experience in, he retreated home to run laps on his sim racing setup and sleep in his own bed before returning to Pocono early the next morning for the Cup race.  The interview covers Ty’s early years in racing, from competing in shifter karts at venues like the GoPro Motorplex to running late model stock cars on the prestigious CARS tour. He recalls the moment he knew he wanted to pursue a career in racing came after his grandfather Joe, whom he affectionately refers to as “Coach”, took him and his cousin to test a go-kart at Millbridge Speedway. When Mike asked if he has ever struggled with getting acclimated to any type of race vehicle, Ty explained the challenge in transitioning from karts to late models and how it took a couple of years to get comfortable. At one point, he was racing his kart full-time while testing a late model at Hickory Speedway during the week.  Dale and Ty dig into the challenge of dealing with the public perception of coming from an established racing family. Ty gave some insight into how he tunes out the criticism he faces, finding that focusing on his love for motorsports keeps him motivated to move forward. Many young racers are forced to grow up in the public eye, and Gibbs talks about his ongoing maturation in dealing with conflicts both on the track and off. Ty’s future has been a hot topic of discussion as he continues to find success in the Xfinity Series and now filling in at 23XI Racing in Kurt Busch’s absence. He explains he ultimately wants to race in many different types of cars, mirroring the career path of Kyle Larson, whom he looks up to in many regards. They also discuss the future of Joe Gibbs Racing and what roles Ty may see himself in as the years roll on.  This year in the Xfinity Series, one of the main storylines to watch has been JR Motorsports versus Ty Gibbs. And while usually, you’d never invite your competition into your very race shop, Dale Jr. recognizes that Ty is going to be a part of motorsports for many years to come and is choosing to embrace him.   DIRTY AIR Before Ty joins the show, Dale, Mike, Alex and Hannah discuss: New Kyle Petty shirts available on the DirtyMoMedia.com Dale’s play-by-play commentary at Michigan Bubba Wallace’s passionate post-race interview The modified race opener at North Wilkesboro   ASKJR presented by Xfinity This week the fans asked about: The future’s perspective on today’s NASCAR world Racing left-handed Dale’s most prized vintage t-shirt Applying Mike Joy’s commentary advice To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In just a few short seasons, Ty Gibbs went from winning in the periphery of the stock car world to becoming one of the most polarizing characters in the NASCAR garage. On this week’s episode of The Dale Jr. Download, Ty joins Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis in the Bojangles Studio to discuss his meteoric rise to becoming a focal point in motorsports.Gibbs stunned onlookers when he won the February 2021 NASCAR Xfinity Series event at the Daytona Road Course, in what was his first attempt in the division. After starting deep in the pack on a late restart, Gibbs put on a driving display that saw him pass several cars and even drive through the grass to take the point, holding off accomplished road racer Austin Cindric in the process. The victory would make history, as it made Gibbs the first driver in the modern NASCAR era to win a national series event in his first attempt. While Ty has come off as soft-spoken in many of his public interviews, he gives The Download listeners a rare look into his home life, filling Dale and Mike in about his siblings and new townhouse. After Kurt Busch’s recent hard crash at Pocono, Ty received the call to fill in at the last moment, minutes after finishing second in the Saturday afternoon Xfinity event. He explained that to best prepare for the challenge of driving a car he had zero experience in, he retreated home to run laps on his sim racing setup and sleep in his own bed before returning to Pocono early the next morning for the Cup race. The interview covers Ty’s early years in racing, from competing in shifter karts at venues like the GoPro Motorplex to running late model stock cars on the prestigious CARS tour. He recalls the moment he knew he wanted to pursue a career in racing came after his grandfather Joe, whom he affectionately refers to as “Coach”, took him and his cousin to test a go-kart at Millbridge Speedway. When Mike asked if he has ever struggled with getting acclimated to any type of race vehicle, Ty explained the challenge in transitioning from karts to late models and how it took a couple of years to get comfortable. At one point, he was racing his kart full-time while testing a late model at Hickory Speedway during the week. Dale and Ty dig into the challenge of dealing with the public perception of coming from an established racing family. Ty gave some insight into how he tunes out the criticism he faces, finding that focusing on his love for motorsports keeps him motivated to move forward. Many young racers are forced to grow up in the public eye, and Gibbs talks about his ongoing maturation in dealing with conflicts both on the track and off.Ty’s future has been a hot topic of discussion as he continues to find success in the Xfinity Series and now filling in at 23XI Racing in Kurt Busch’s absence. He explains he ultimately wants to race in many different types of cars, mirroring the career path of Kyle Larson, whom he looks up to in many regards. They also discuss the future of Joe Gibbs Racing and what roles Ty may see himself in as the years roll on. This year in the Xfinity Series, one of the main storylines to watch has been JR Motorsports versus Ty Gibbs. And while usually, you’d never invite your competition into your very race shop, Dale Jr. recognizes that Ty is going to be a part of motorsports for many years to come and is choosing to embrace him. DIRTY AIRBefore Ty joins the show, Dale, Mike, Alex and Hannah discuss: New Kyle Petty shirts available on the DirtyMoMedia.com Dale’s play-by-play commentary at Michigan Bubba Wallace’s passionate post-race interview The modified race opener at North Wilkesboro  ASKJR presented by XfinityThis week the fans asked about: The future’s perspective on today’s NASCAR world Racing left-handed Dale’s most prized vintage t-shirt Applying Mike Joy’s commentary advice To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

What do you get when you combine a drug smuggling enterprise straight out of an episode of Miami Vice with the high-dollar sports car racing world of the 1980s? You get the story of Randy Lanier, and on this week’s episode he joins Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis to tell it. At one time a top prospect in American motorsports, Lanier made headlines when he was indicted in 1986 for operating a multi-million dollar drug distribution effort responsible for bringing over 300 tons of marijuana to the United States from Columbia. Just a handful of months before he was Rookie of the Year in the 70th running of the Indianapolis 500. Originally born in rural Lynchburg, Virginia, Lanier and his family of seven moved to Hollywood, Florida when he was 13. The sunny beach lifestyle was captivating for young Randy, and was soon introduced to the thriving marijuana subculture of the 1960s. His father, who worked as a draftsman, was concerned about his seemingly wayward lifestyle and got him a job in construction. But, due to his longhaired appearance, fellow construction workers began asking Randy if he knew where to buy marijuana, and his stint in drug dealing began. Randy shares a frightening story of getting robbed at gun-point during a sale, which temporarily took him away from Florida to Colorado. It was there he met a guru, who invited him to an ashram in Boulder where he learned the art of meditation, which proved to be a big part of his survival in prison as well as a cornerstone of his life today. Upon returning to Florida, Randy continued on his new path until tragically losing his brother Glen in a motorcycle accident. The event was catastrophic for the Lanier family, and Randy explains it spun him out, back into the familiarity of selling marijuana.  While he may not have realized it at the time, Lanier’s eventual career in motorsports was implanted in the back of his mind, thanks in part to listening to the Indianapolis 500 broadcast on the radio when he was a young boy at his family farm in Virginia. Randy recalls a story from the late 1970s when he was attending a car show at the Miami Beach Convention Center and noticed a SCCA-sponsored booth. He picked up a pamphlet and eventually made the call to inquire about becoming a licensed driver. Soon after, he purchased his first race car: a 1957 Porsche 256. After renting out a small warehouse to be his shop and preparing the car for racing action, he entered his first amateur contest at West Palm Beach Speedway in 1980. As legend would have it, he won.  From there he rapidly progressed through the sports car ranks, arriving at the headlining IMSA GT circuit. After spending a few seasons in borrowed rides with minimal results, he decided to take matters into his own hands and form his own racing team. But, to win on a consistent basis required a large bank roll, and so the two roads of Lanier’s life intersected.  At this point, he had some experience with off-shore drug smuggling. At age 19 he used some of his dealing profits to purchase a 27-foot speed boat, initially intended to be a frivolous expenditure for thrill-seeking. He soon began traveling to the Bahamas to bring in loads of marijuana from awaiting motherships. In order to fund his newly formed Blue Thunder Racing team, Lanier expanded from speed boats to fishing boats, then tug boats and finally a full-on barge. The results were instant, and in 1984 he won the IMSA Championship. The next year, he took on CART racing with the intention of heading to Indianapolis. The transition proved difficult, and although he had a successful debut in 1986 in the 500, a devastating crash at Michigan a few weeks later effectively ended his racing career. As it turns out, his drug smuggling efforts caught up with him and soon after he was indicted. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

What do you get when you combine a drug smuggling enterprise straight out of an episode of Miami Vice with the high-dollar sports car racing world of the 1980s? You get the story of Randy Lanier, and on this week’s episode he joins Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis to tell it.At one time a top prospect in American motorsports, Lanier made headlines when he was indicted in 1986 for operating a multi-million dollar drug distribution effort responsible for bringing over 300 tons of marijuana to the United States from Columbia. Just a handful of months before he was Rookie of the Year in the 70th running of the Indianapolis 500.Originally born in rural Lynchburg, Virginia, Lanier and his family of seven moved to Hollywood, Florida when he was 13. The sunny beach lifestyle was captivating for young Randy, and was soon introduced to the thriving marijuana subculture of the 1960s. His father, who worked as a draftsman, was concerned about his seemingly wayward lifestyle and got him a job in construction. But, due to his longhaired appearance, fellow construction workers began asking Randy if he knew where to buy marijuana, and his stint in drug dealing began.Randy shares a frightening story of getting robbed at gun-point during a sale, which temporarily took him away from Florida to Colorado. It was there he met a guru, who invited him to an ashram in Boulder where he learned the art of meditation, which proved to be a big part of his survival in prison as well as a cornerstone of his life today. Upon returning to Florida, Randy continued on his new path until tragically losing his brother Glen in a motorcycle accident. The event was catastrophic for the Lanier family, and Randy explains it spun him out, back into the familiarity of selling marijuana. While he may not have realized it at the time, Lanier’s eventual career in motorsports was implanted in the back of his mind, thanks in part to listening to the Indianapolis 500 broadcast on the radio when he was a young boy at his family farm in Virginia. Randy recalls a story from the late 1970s when he was attending a car show at the Miami Beach Convention Center and noticed a SCCA-sponsored booth. He picked up a pamphlet and eventually made the call to inquire about becoming a licensed driver. Soon after, he purchased his first race car: a 1957 Porsche 256. After renting out a small warehouse to be his shop and preparing the car for racing action, he entered his first amateur contest at West Palm Beach Speedway in 1980. As legend would have it, he won. From there he rapidly progressed through the sports car ranks, arriving at the headlining IMSA GT circuit. After spending a few seasons in borrowed rides with minimal results, he decided to take matters into his own hands and form his own racing team. But, to win on a consistent basis required a large bank roll, and so the two roads of Lanier’s life intersected. At this point, he had some experience with off-shore drug smuggling. At age 19 he used some of his dealing profits to purchase a 27-foot speed boat, initially intended to be a frivolous expenditure for thrill-seeking. He soon began traveling to the Bahamas to bring in loads of marijuana from awaiting motherships. In order to fund his newly formed Blue Thunder Racing team, Lanier expanded from speed boats to fishing boats, then tug boats and finally a full-on barge. The results were instant, and in 1984 he won the IMSA Championship. The next year, he took on CART racing with the intention of heading to Indianapolis. The transition proved difficult, and although he had a successful debut in 1986 in the 500, a devastating crash at Michigan a few weeks later effectively ended his racing career. As it turns out, his drug smuggling efforts caught up with him and soon after he was indicted. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

What do you get when you combine a drug smuggling enterprise straight out of an episode of Miami Vice with the high-dollar sports car racing world of the 1980s? You get the story of Randy Lanier, and on this week’s episode he joins Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis to tell it. At one time a top prospect in American motorsports, Lanier made headlines when he was indicted in 1986 for operating a multi-million dollar drug distribution effort responsible for bringing over 300 tons of marijuana to the United States from Columbia. Just a handful of months before he was Rookie of the Year in the 70th running of the Indianapolis 500. Originally born in rural Lynchburg, Virginia, Lanier and his family of seven moved to Hollywood, Florida when he was 13. The sunny beach lifestyle was captivating for young Randy, and was soon introduced to the thriving marijuana subculture of the 1960s. His father, who worked as a draftsman, was concerned about his seemingly wayward lifestyle and got him a job in construction. But, due to his longhaired appearance, fellow construction workers began asking Randy if he knew where to buy marijuana, and his stint in drug dealing began. Randy shares a frightening story of getting robbed at gun-point during a sale, which temporarily took him away from Florida to Colorado. It was there he met a guru, who invited him to an ashram in Boulder where he learned the art of meditation, which proved to be a big part of his survival in prison as well as a cornerstone of his life today. Upon returning to Florida, Randy continued on his new path until tragically losing his brother Glen in a motorcycle accident. The event was catastrophic for the Lanier family, and Randy explains it spun him out, back into the familiarity of selling marijuana.  While he may not have realized it at the time, Lanier’s eventual career in motorsports was implanted in the back of his mind, thanks in part to listening to the Indianapolis 500 broadcast on the radio when he was a young boy at his family farm in Virginia. Randy recalls a story from the late 1970s when he was attending a car show at the Miami Beach Convention Center and noticed a SCCA-sponsored booth. He picked up a pamphlet and eventually made the call to inquire about becoming a licensed driver. Soon after, he purchased his first race car: a 1957 Porsche 256. After renting out a small warehouse to be his shop and preparing the car for racing action, he entered his first amateur contest at West Palm Beach Speedway in 1980. As legend would have it, he won.  From there he rapidly progressed through the sports car ranks, arriving at the headlining IMSA GT circuit. After spending a few seasons in borrowed rides with minimal results, he decided to take matters into his own hands and form his own racing team. But, to win on a consistent basis required a large bank roll, and so the two roads of Lanier’s life intersected.  DIRTY AIR Before Randy joins the show, Dale, Mike and Matthew discuss: Listeners respond to Dale and Mike’s heated discussion The chaotic Cup race at the Indianapolis Road Course  Indianapolis Oval or Road Course? Dale Jr.’s return to North Wilkesboro   ASKJR presented by Xfinity The fan questions came rolling in about: Doing commentary for other sports Should NASCAR return to Iowa Speedway? The 1995 Impala from MTV Cribs Dale’s perfect tailgate menu To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

What do you get when you combine a drug smuggling enterprise straight out of an episode of Miami Vice with the high-dollar sports car racing world of the 1980s? You get the story of Randy Lanier, and on this week’s episode he joins Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis to tell it.At one time a top prospect in American motorsports, Lanier made headlines when he was indicted in 1986 for operating a multi-million dollar drug distribution effort responsible for bringing over 300 tons of marijuana to the United States from Columbia. Just a handful of months before he was Rookie of the Year in the 70th running of the Indianapolis 500.Originally born in rural Lynchburg, Virginia, Lanier and his family of seven moved to Hollywood, Florida when he was 13. The sunny beach lifestyle was captivating for young Randy, and was soon introduced to the thriving marijuana subculture of the 1960s. His father, who worked as a draftsman, was concerned about his seemingly wayward lifestyle and got him a job in construction. But, due to his longhaired appearance, fellow construction workers began asking Randy if he knew where to buy marijuana, and his stint in drug dealing began.Randy shares a frightening story of getting robbed at gun-point during a sale, which temporarily took him away from Florida to Colorado. It was there he met a guru, who invited him to an ashram in Boulder where he learned the art of meditation, which proved to be a big part of his survival in prison as well as a cornerstone of his life today. Upon returning to Florida, Randy continued on his new path until tragically losing his brother Glen in a motorcycle accident. The event was catastrophic for the Lanier family, and Randy explains it spun him out, back into the familiarity of selling marijuana. While he may not have realized it at the time, Lanier’s eventual career in motorsports was implanted in the back of his mind, thanks in part to listening to the Indianapolis 500 broadcast on the radio when he was a young boy at his family farm in Virginia. Randy recalls a story from the late 1970s when he was attending a car show at the Miami Beach Convention Center and noticed a SCCA-sponsored booth. He picked up a pamphlet and eventually made the call to inquire about becoming a licensed driver. Soon after, he purchased his first race car: a 1957 Porsche 256. After renting out a small warehouse to be his shop and preparing the car for racing action, he entered his first amateur contest at West Palm Beach Speedway in 1980. As legend would have it, he won. From there he rapidly progressed through the sports car ranks, arriving at the headlining IMSA GT circuit. After spending a few seasons in borrowed rides with minimal results, he decided to take matters into his own hands and form his own racing team. But, to win on a consistent basis required a large bank roll, and so the two roads of Lanier’s life intersected. DIRTY AIRBefore Randy joins the show, Dale, Mike and Matthew discuss: Listeners respond to Dale and Mike’s heated discussion The chaotic Cup race at the Indianapolis Road Course  Indianapolis Oval or Road Course? Dale Jr.’s return to North Wilkesboro  ASKJR presented by XfinityThe fan questions came rolling in about: Doing commentary for other sports Should NASCAR return to Iowa Speedway? The 1995 Impala from MTV Cribs Dale’s perfect tailgate menu To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

If you’ve listened to or watched a NASCAR race in the past 50 years, there’s a voice that is synonymous with some of the sport’s biggest moments. Legendary broadcaster Mike Joy joins Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis to fill listeners in on his career, as well as talk shop about the broadcasting craft. After a meteoric rise from the PA booth of New England’s finest short tracks, Joy has gone on to work for almost every major broadcasting network in motorsports over the past five decades.  Growing up in Windsor, Connecticut, Joy enrolled at the University of Hartford pursuing a degree in engineering. It was here that he got his first on-air experience after taking a position at the university’s radio station as a play-by-play commentator for sporting events. It was also during these years that he became involved in the world of motorsports. He had developed a love for sports cars as a teenager, thanks to an extensive collection of auto magazines and his father’s acquisition of a two-seater that the two worked on. His admiration for the road racing experts of the day, such as Dan Gurney and Mark Donohue sparked an interest to join the driving ranks himself. But without proper funding or opportunity, he settled into the sport of autocross where competitors could use their street vehicles.  His autocross club brought him to Riverside Park Speedway in Agawam, Massachusetts – a small pavement oval located in an amusement park. Thanks to his broadcasting experience, he was asked to hop on the microphone during an autocross meet one Sunday to help inform any park attendees who may have wandered into the track exactly what was happening in the competition. Before long, park owner Ed Carroll noticed that a few hundred people had gathered in the grandstands to watch a single car weaving around barrels, and invited Joy on board to become a fill-in PA announcer. Although he initially turned down the offer, citing a disinterest in the crude jalopies of the oval racing circuit, he attended a Saturday night show at the recommendation of the track’s public relations specialist. After witnessing a mad dash to the finish between two drivers and the effect it had on the audience, Joy thought “I need to be a part of this.” Joy fills Dale and Mike in on how taking the position at Riverside introduced him to the legendary Ken Squier, and how that guided him to joining the Motor Racing Network. He talks about an opportunity he received to call some of the 1975 IROC race at Daytona, and how that moment made him realize that he could have a career in broadcasting.  The conversation also dives into the art of commentating, and how different platforms require different approaches. Joy recounts a hilarious story of sneaking into the 1976 Daytona 500 and joining in on the Wood Brothers’ victory lane celebration. He also shares the details of his final conversation with Dale Earnhardt Sr. Although known for his contributions to the sport from inside the broadcaster’s booth, Joy still managed to have a career in road racing, and shares the details of his 1973 IMSA debut, as well as his experiences in the 1993 24 Hours of Daytona. In 2022, Joy celebrated his 22nd consecutive year as lead commentator for the Daytona 500. It also marked his 46th year of involvement with Daytona Speedweeks, a record that may never be eclipsed.  DIRTY AIR presented by Filtertime Before Mike Joy joins the show, Dale, Mike and Matthew get real about: NASCAR’s wild weekend at Pocono Denny Hamlin’s pass for the lead considered retaliation against Ross Chastain? Ty Gibbs subbing in for Kurt Busch The future of Kyle Busch   ASKJR presented by Xfinity Alex Timms brings fan questions to Dale about: The advantage the NextGen rear view camera provides The upcoming modified opening races at North Wilkesboro Hanging with Noah Gragson in victory lane Collecting diecast cars To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

If you’ve listened to or watched a NASCAR race in the past 50 years, there’s a voice that is synonymous with some of the sport’s biggest moments. Legendary broadcaster Mike Joy joins Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis to fill listeners in on his career, as well as talk shop about the broadcasting craft.After a meteoric rise from the PA booth of New England’s finest short tracks, Joy has gone on to work for almost every major broadcasting network in motorsports over the past five decades. Growing up in Windsor, Connecticut, Joy enrolled at the University of Hartford pursuing a degree in engineering. It was here that he got his first on-air experience after taking a position at the university’s radio station as a play-by-play commentator for sporting events. It was also during these years that he became involved in the world of motorsports. He had developed a love for sports cars as a teenager, thanks to an extensive collection of auto magazines and his father’s acquisition of a two-seater that the two worked on. His admiration for the road racing experts of the day, such as Dan Gurney and Mark Donohue sparked an interest to join the driving ranks himself. But without proper funding or opportunity, he settled into the sport of autocross where competitors could use their street vehicles. His autocross club brought him to Riverside Park Speedway in Agawam, Massachusetts – a small pavement oval located in an amusement park. Thanks to his broadcasting experience, he was asked to hop on the microphone during an autocross meet one Sunday to help inform any park attendees who may have wandered into the track exactly what was happening in the competition. Before long, park owner Ed Carroll noticed that a few hundred people had gathered in the grandstands to watch a single car weaving around barrels, and invited Joy on board to become a fill-in PA announcer. Although he initially turned down the offer, citing a disinterest in the crude jalopies of the oval racing circuit, he attended a Saturday night show at the recommendation of the track’s public relations specialist. After witnessing a mad dash to the finish between two drivers and the effect it had on the audience, Joy thought “I need to be a part of this.”Joy fills Dale and Mike in on how taking the position at Riverside introduced him to the legendary Ken Squier, and how that guided him to joining the Motor Racing Network. He talks about an opportunity he received to call some of the 1975 IROC race at Daytona, and how that moment made him realize that he could have a career in broadcasting. The conversation also dives into the art of commentating, and how different platforms require different approaches. Joy recounts a hilarious story of sneaking into the 1976 Daytona 500 and joining in on the Wood Brothers’ victory lane celebration. He also shares the details of his final conversation with Dale Earnhardt Sr.Although known for his contributions to the sport from inside the broadcaster’s booth, Joy still managed to have a career in road racing, and shares the details of his 1973 IMSA debut, as well as his experiences in the 1993 24 Hours of Daytona.In 2022, Joy celebrated his 22nd consecutive year as lead commentator for the Daytona 500. It also marked his 46th year of involvement with Daytona Speedweeks, a record that may never be eclipsed. DIRTY AIR presented by FiltertimeBefore Mike Joy joins the show, Dale, Mike and Matthew get real about: NASCAR’s wild weekend at Pocono Denny Hamlin’s pass for the lead considered retaliation against Ross Chastain? Ty Gibbs subbing in for Kurt Busch The future of Kyle Busch  ASKJR presented by XfinityAlex Timms brings fan questions to Dale about: The advantage the NextGen rear view camera provides The upcoming modified opening races at North Wilkesboro Hanging with Noah Gragson in victory lane Collecting diecast cars To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The success of sports is often built on rivalries. Auto Racing is no different. Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis bring their favorite rivalries from the table of truth to this special episode. In the late 90's the NASCAR Xfinity Series was a hotbed for talent but also a series full of hot tempers. One of the great rivalries of the era was between an out-spoken northern driver, Champion Randy Lajoie, and an aggressive Georgian named Buckshot Jones. Dale Earnhardt had several rivals throughout his storied career. Most foe were created by physical contact between two racecars. Dale's rivalry with Ricky Rudd was personal. Rudd reveals how their shattered friendship lead to some legendary on-track altercations. Ron Hornaday Jr. is still not over it. In a 2011 NASCAR Truck Series race at Texas Motor Speedway, he and Kyle Busch made contact on the track. Busch proceeded to wreck Hornaday under caution. NASCAR may have parked and suspended Busch for the actions, but it was Hornaday who suffered the most. The incident cost him a shot at the Championship. It's a wound that isn't fully healed to this day. Some rivals start as best friends. Some, under the same roof. Jeff Burton and Ward Burton open up about how their different personalities and upbringing, created bad blood between one of Virginia's most beloved NASCAR families. Rusty Wallace and Dale Earnhardt were great friends behind closed doors. On the race track? Far from it. The two giants of the NASCAR world battled each other relentlessly, resulting in a library of contentious moments and altercations. Rusty opens up about it and we find out how it played into a rivalry with a young Jeff Gordon. Dale Jr. says that if there is a Mount Rushmore of Motorsports rivalries, the Geoff Bodine / Dale Earnahrdt rivalry would be on it. Bodine details his side of one of the sport’s most talked about feuds. Last but not least, a colorful Jimmy Spencer gets down and dirty about his distain for Kurt Busch. How did "Mr. Excitement" get so mad that he punched Kurt Busch? ASKJr presented by Xfinity Before the rivalry talk Hannah Newhouse brought fan questions to Dale Jr. about: What track should host the Championship finale? What dream racecars would Dale Jr. like to test at North Wilkesboro? The mysterious red left front tire at Daytona in 2004. Lugs Harvey or Harry Hogg? To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The success of sports is often built on rivalries. Auto Racing is no different. Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis bring their favorite rivalries from the table of truth to this special episode.In the late 90's the NASCAR Xfinity Series was a hotbed for talent but also a series full of hot tempers. One of the great rivalries of the era was between an out-spoken northern driver, Champion Randy Lajoie, and an aggressive Georgian named Buckshot Jones.Dale Earnhardt had several rivals throughout his storied career. Most foe were created by physical contact between two racecars. Dale's rivalry with Ricky Rudd was personal. Rudd reveals how their shattered friendship lead to some legendary on-track altercations.Ron Hornaday Jr. is still not over it. In a 2011 NASCAR Truck Series race at Texas Motor Speedway, he and Kyle Busch made contact on the track. Busch proceeded to wreck Hornaday under caution. NASCAR may have parked and suspended Busch for the actions, but it was Hornaday who suffered the most. The incident cost him a shot at the Championship. It's a wound that isn't fully healed to this day.Some rivals start as best friends. Some, under the same roof. Jeff Burton and Ward Burton open up about how their different personalities and upbringing, created bad blood between one of Virginia's most beloved NASCAR families.Rusty Wallace and Dale Earnhardt were great friends behind closed doors. On the race track? Far from it. The two giants of the NASCAR world battled each other relentlessly, resulting in a library of contentious moments and altercations. Rusty opens up about it and we find out how it played into a rivalry with a young Jeff Gordon.Dale Jr. says that if there is a Mount Rushmore of Motorsports rivalries, the Geoff Bodine / Dale Earnahrdt rivalry would be on it. Bodine details his side of one of the sport’s most talked about feuds.Last but not least, a colorful Jimmy Spencer gets down and dirty about his distain for Kurt Busch. How did "Mr. Excitement" get so mad that he punched Kurt Busch?ASKJr presented by XfinityBefore the rivalry talk Hannah Newhouse brought fan questions to Dale Jr. about: What track should host the Championship finale? What dream racecars would Dale Jr. like to test at North Wilkesboro? The mysterious red left front tire at Daytona in 2004. Lugs Harvey or Harry Hogg? To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Tony Eury Jr. is more than a cousin to Dale Earnhardt Jr. He's a brother. Dale Jr.'s former crew chief comes to the table of truth to discuss their best days together in racing and the hard truths of the controversial breakups that made the headlines during their careers. From their two years of winning the championship in the NASCAR Xfinity Series, Dale Earnhardt and the Eury's took their success to the NASCAR Cup Series. Tony, Dale Jr. and co-host Mike Davis talk about the challenge of growing together as a team and a family. Dale Jr. wastes no time asking Tony about "creativity" he used on their racecars and how other's in the sport were talking about how fast they were. Tony and Dale laugh about re-gaining their mojo by drinking more. And yes, it worked. They also tell the hilarious story of a test session that ended in Dale Jr. doing donuts in the garage area. Eury details how the 2001 death of Dale Earnhardt impacted he, Dale Jr and the entire Bud No. 8 team in their approach and future trajectory. As many triumphs that the team earned, there was also tension and arguments. Like there typically is with family, the cousins didn't always see eye to eye. The tension led to a severing in the relationship and the first split between Dale Jr and the Eury's in 2004. Tony Jr. and Dale open up to each other about their feelings at the time and the regret they have to this day about the situation. The cousins discuss the Charlotte 600 impromptu presser by "Pops" Eury and how that lit a fuse in the media. Tony Jr. shares a never-before-told story about how Teresa handled the situation in the shop that week. They also open up about Dale's departure from Dale Earnhardt Inc. and how thinks could've been much different. The Hendrick years offered so much promise to Dale Earnhardt Jr. But just like at DEI, there were wins and painful losses. Eury talks about Dale Jr.'s mindset and lack of confidence through the trying times as the two detail the second split in their crew chief-driver relationship. He also brings us inside the Hendrick Motorsports dynamic to share the challenges and struggles within the organization during this period. The table discussion brings the relationship from Hendrick Motorsports through the Eury's next stint with the Earnhardts and Jr Motorsports. Tony Eury shares his thoughts on being Danica Patrick's crew chief and how there were similarities between she and Dale Jr.   DIRTY AIR presented by FilterTime Before Tony Eury Jr. came to the table, Dale and Mike discuss: Dale Jr's high-pitched excitement in the broadcast booth at Atlanta The 2022 Ross Chastain Aggression Tour Corey Lajoie's near-win at Atlanta.   ASKJR presented by Xfnity Hannah Newhouse brings fan questions to the podcast for Dale about: Ryan Ellis' tweet about stealing sponsors from another driver. Favorite Atlanta Braves players. What was miserable about being a driver and the worst part of being a broadcaster? Would the Xfinity Series benefit from an identity shift to V6 Motors or electric? To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Tony Eury Jr. is more than a cousin to Dale Earnhardt Jr. He's a brother. Dale Jr.'s former crew chief comes to the table of truth to discuss their best days together in racing and the hard truths of the controversial breakups that made the headlines during their careers.From their two years of winning the championship in the NASCAR Xfinity Series, Dale Earnhardt and the Eury's took their success to the NASCAR Cup Series. Tony, Dale Jr. and co-host Mike Davis talk about the challenge of growing together as a team and a family. Dale Jr. wastes no time asking Tony about "creativity" he used on their racecars and how other's in the sport were talking about how fast they were. Tony and Dale laugh about re-gaining their mojo by drinking more. And yes, it worked. They also tell the hilarious story of a test session that ended in Dale Jr. doing donuts in the garage area.Eury details how the 2001 death of Dale Earnhardt impacted he, Dale Jr and the entire Bud No. 8 team in their approach and future trajectory. As many triumphs that the team earned, there was also tension and arguments. Like there typically is with family, the cousins didn't always see eye to eye.The tension led to a severing in the relationship and the first split between Dale Jr and the Eury's in 2004. Tony Jr. and Dale open up to each other about their feelings at the time and the regret they have to this day about the situation. The cousins discuss the Charlotte 600 impromptu presser by "Pops" Eury and how that lit a fuse in the media. Tony Jr. shares a never-before-told story about how Teresa handled the situation in the shop that week. They also open up about Dale's departure from Dale Earnhardt Inc. and how thinks could've been much different.The Hendrick years offered so much promise to Dale Earnhardt Jr. But just like at DEI, there were wins and painful losses. Eury talks about Dale Jr.'s mindset and lack of confidence through the trying times as the two detail the second split in their crew chief-driver relationship. He also brings us inside the Hendrick Motorsports dynamic to share the challenges and struggles within the organization during this period.The table discussion brings the relationship from Hendrick Motorsports through the Eury's next stint with the Earnhardts and Jr Motorsports. Tony Eury shares his thoughts on being Danica Patrick's crew chief and how there were similarities between she and Dale Jr. DIRTY AIR presented by FilterTimeBefore Tony Eury Jr. came to the table, Dale and Mike discuss: Dale Jr's high-pitched excitement in the broadcast booth at Atlanta The 2022 Ross Chastain Aggression Tour Corey Lajoie's near-win at Atlanta.  ASKJR presented by XfnityHannah Newhouse brings fan questions to the podcast for Dale about: Ryan Ellis' tweet about stealing sponsors from another driver. Favorite Atlanta Braves players. What was miserable about being a driver and the worst part of being a broadcaster? Would the Xfinity Series benefit from an identity shift to V6 Motors or electric? To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

He's the man responsible for starting a NASCAR team that has turned everyone's heads in NASCAR. Today, racer and entrepreneur Justin Marks sits with Dale Earnhardt Jr. and Mike Davis to discuss the wild journey from a no-name to someone shaking up the industry. Marks' exposure to the sport of auto racing came at an early age, when his grandfather, a fan of motorsports, took him to local dirt tracks in Missouri. From there, his passion grew. Eventually the Marks family moved to California, as his father Michael chased dreams in Silicon Valley. For young Justin, his dreams came in the form of an amateur ride in the SCCA road racing ranks. From amateur to pro, his career started to climb as he found himself having success in IMSA and events like the 24-hours of Daytona. But how did this road racer transition to the NASCAR world? Influences like Boris Said, a cross-over racer, took Marks to North Carolina. It also took him to a basement party at Dale Jr.'s house. Dale Jr. didn't even realize that the future NASCAR team owner was there. From there, his family's success created opportunities in the NASCAR ranks from the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series, through Xfinity and even the elite Cup Series. Marks admits that he didn't always do things right and revealed what it was like being fired from a ride that he paid for. He did find success in the NASCAR ranks, winning an Xfinity Series race on the windy and wet turns of the Mid-Ohio racing course in 2016 for Chip Ganassi Racing. Ironically, the same team he'd end up purchasing in his breakthrough in the Motorsports business world. Realizing his journey behind the wheel served a selfish need, Marks realized he had a "higher calling." He realized that he wanted to be a mover in the Motorsports industry. He did so by starting a team called "Trackhouse Racing." Trackhouse purchased two charters and longtime NASCAR team Chip Ganassi Racing. A purchase that happened one year before this appearance on The Dale Jr. Download. He admits that the decision was done in a risky order but he knew he needed to make some unorthodox moves to make his dream happen. In a year, a new team has created two first-time winners in the NASCAR Cup Series and has both of its teams in a playoff spot, running up-front each week and stealing headlines? How? Dale Jr admits that he was among the plethora of doubters, that didn't see the rapid success of the first year team coming. The mantra of Marks' approach is rooted in "belief." A philosophy in creating a business and culture that differs from the norm and placing belief in his drivers and employees to produce results. Marks discusses the rise of NASCAR superstar Ross Chastain and how he has ruffled the feathers of some of the sport's biggest names. He opens up about discussions with Ross and with other car owners like Rick Hendrick. He also talks about conversations with Denny Hamlin after a run in with Chastain in St. Louis. Dale Jr. and Mike Davis get the young team owner to open up about his thoughts on the state of the sport and how he sees the business model moving forward with the cost of the Next Gen car and the up-coming television deal that NASCAR will have to make in 2025. How does he view the current Charter system and the potential of new team owners, potentially ones sitting at the table, entering the Charter system? DIRTY AIR presented by FilterTime Before bringing Justin Marks to the table the DJD Gang discuss: The Download live at Ole Red in Nashville. Lightning delays and race start times. The reality that everything is going to streaming. ASK JR presented by Xfinity Hannah Newhouse tees up fan questions about: Dale's rain delays as a driver. Who closed down the bar in Nashville? Fiery Tony Stewart getting physical with Ernie Francis in the SRX race Dale Jr. racing a Late Model at North Wilkesboro To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

He's the man responsible for starting a NASCAR team that has turned everyone's heads in NASCAR. Today, racer and entrepreneur Justin Marks sits with Dale Earnhardt Jr. and Mike Davis to discuss the wild journey from a no-name to someone shaking up the industry.Marks' exposure to the sport of auto racing came at an early age, when his grandfather, a fan of motorsports, took him to local dirt tracks in Missouri. From there, his passion grew. Eventually the Marks family moved to California, as his father Michael chased dreams in Silicon Valley. For young Justin, his dreams came in the form of an amateur ride in the SCCA road racing ranks. From amateur to pro, his career started to climb as he found himself having success in IMSA and events like the 24-hours of Daytona.But how did this road racer transition to the NASCAR world? Influences like Boris Said, a cross-over racer, took Marks to North Carolina. It also took him to a basement party at Dale Jr.'s house. Dale Jr. didn't even realize that the future NASCAR team owner was there.From there, his family's success created opportunities in the NASCAR ranks from the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series, through Xfinity and even the elite Cup Series. Marks admits that he didn't always do things right and revealed what it was like being fired from a ride that he paid for. He did find success in the NASCAR ranks, winning an Xfinity Series race on the windy and wet turns of the Mid-Ohio racing course in 2016 for Chip Ganassi Racing. Ironically, the same team he'd end up purchasing in his breakthrough in the Motorsports business world.Realizing his journey behind the wheel served a selfish need, Marks realized he had a "higher calling." He realized that he wanted to be a mover in the Motorsports industry. He did so by starting a team called "Trackhouse Racing." Trackhouse purchased two charters and longtime NASCAR team Chip Ganassi Racing. A purchase that happened one year before this appearance on The Dale Jr. Download. He admits that the decision was done in a risky order but he knew he needed to make some unorthodox moves to make his dream happen.In a year, a new team has created two first-time winners in the NASCAR Cup Series and has both of its teams in a playoff spot, running up-front each week and stealing headlines? How? Dale Jr admits that he was among the plethora of doubters, that didn't see the rapid success of the first year team coming. The mantra of Marks' approach is rooted in "belief." A philosophy in creating a business and culture that differs from the norm and placing belief in his drivers and employees to produce results.Marks discusses the rise of NASCAR superstar Ross Chastain and how he has ruffled the feathers of some of the sport's biggest names. He opens up about discussions with Ross and with other car owners like Rick Hendrick. He also talks about conversations with Denny Hamlin after a run in with Chastain in St. Louis.Dale Jr. and Mike Davis get the young team owner to open up about his thoughts on the state of the sport and how he sees the business model moving forward with the cost of the Next Gen car and the up-coming television deal that NASCAR will have to make in 2025. How does he view the current Charter system and the potential of new team owners, potentially ones sitting at the table, entering the Charter system?DIRTY AIR presented by FilterTime Before bringing Justin Marks to the table the DJD Gang discuss: The Download live at Ole Red in Nashville. Lightning delays and race start times. The reality that everything is going to streaming. ASK JR presented by XfinityHannah Newhouse tees up fan questions about: Dale's rain delays as a driver. Who closed down the bar in Nashville? Fiery Tony Stewart getting physical with Ernie Francis in the SRX race Dale Jr. racing a Late Model at North Wilkesboro To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

A special live taping of The Dale Jr. Download with host Dale Earnhardt Jr and Mike Davis at Ole Red in Nashville, Tennessee brought to you by Ally. The beers and the stories flowed on stage in front of a packed house at Blake Shelton's bar and music venue. NASCAR Hall of Famer Darrell Waltrip joins Davis and Earnhardt to share tall tales and loads of laughs. Before DW showed up, Dale and Mike share some fun stories about their relationship, including the time a drunk Dale Jr. offered to be a perfect stranger's best man at a wedding. Oh, and the best man turned out to be a con-man. Dale talks about being back in the booth for this weekend's Ally 400 at Nashville Superspeedway. Dale Jr. also discusses recent test at North Wilkesboro Speedway in preparation for his return to racing a Late Model Stock car. Yes, that's an announcement! Dale Jr will be racing at North Wilkesboro on August 31st. How about that bombshell? Dale talks about his buddy Martin Truex Jr.'s decision to run one more season. He also talks about JR Motorsports' desire to compete in the NASCAR Cup Series. Ally brought Darrell Waltrip to the stage and boy he didn't disappoint. Ole DW stole the show at Ole Red. Waltrip made a name for himself down the road at the Nashville Fairgrounds. Waltrip talks about being called "Jaws" and the how it balanced with "The Cale Scale." This wasn't your ordinary talk with DW. Dale Jr found out the answer to something he's always wondered about. What happened when the cameras cut-away from Darrell and Dale Earnhardt after their infamous wreck at Richmond in 1986? DW reveals the Richmond revenge that was exacted in a never-before told story. Dale also seeks the truth about the controversial ending to the 1985 Winston when Darrell's Junior Johnson #11 blew an engine coming across the start-finish line. The guys decided to do an impromptu version of AskJr. It was live, in a bar full of beverages and it was hosted by former NFL player Bernard Pollard, The questions and answers are epic as Dale and Mike let it fly. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

A special live taping of The Dale Jr. Download with host Dale Earnhardt Jr and Mike Davis at Ole Red in Nashville, Tennessee brought to you by Ally. The beers and the stories flowed on stage in front of a packed house at Blake Shelton's bar and music venue. NASCAR Hall of Famer Darrell Waltrip joins Davis and Earnhardt to share tall tales and loads of laughs.Before DW showed up, Dale and Mike share some fun stories about their relationship, including the time a drunk Dale Jr. offered to be a perfect stranger's best man at a wedding. Oh, and the best man turned out to be a con-man. Dale talks about being back in the booth for this weekend's Ally 400 at Nashville Superspeedway.Dale Jr. also discusses recent test at North Wilkesboro Speedway in preparation for his return to racing a Late Model Stock car. Yes, that's an announcement! Dale Jr will be racing at North Wilkesboro on August 31st. How about that bombshell?Dale talks about his buddy Martin Truex Jr.'s decision to run one more season. He also talks about JR Motorsports' desire to compete in the NASCAR Cup Series.Ally brought Darrell Waltrip to the stage and boy he didn't disappoint. Ole DW stole the show at Ole Red. Waltrip made a name for himself down the road at the Nashville Fairgrounds. Waltrip talks about being called "Jaws" and the how it balanced with "The Cale Scale."This wasn't your ordinary talk with DW. Dale Jr found out the answer to something he's always wondered about. What happened when the cameras cut-away from Darrell and Dale Earnhardt after their infamous wreck at Richmond in 1986? DW reveals the Richmond revenge that was exacted in a never-before told story. Dale also seeks the truth about the controversial ending to the 1985 Winston when Darrell's Junior Johnson #11 blew an engine coming across the start-finish line.The guys decided to do an impromptu version of AskJr. It was live, in a bar full of beverages and it was hosted by former NFL player Bernard Pollard, The questions and answers are epic as Dale and Mike let it fly. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Phil Parsons has done it all. From being the little brother of a NASCAR Legend, a racer, a team owner and a broadcaster, the only thing he hadn't done was come to the Bojangles Studio to sit down with Dale Earnhardt Jr. Until now. On his 65th birthday, Parsons sits down with Dale Jr. and Mike Davis about his fascinating life. All he wanted to do is race. Plain and simple. From the age of five, watching his brother Benny in daring Figure-8 races through his older brother's monumental ascension through the sport, little brother just wanted to drive. When he got his shot, it didn't come easy. He took a Vega and some infrequent opportunities and made the most of them by winning races in NASCAR's Baby Grand Series, which was to become the Dash Series. He won at places like Hickory Motor Speedway, Caraway Speedway, North Wilkesboro and Nashville. It's a period of Parsons’ story not often talked about and a time that Dale Jr. came to the table with curiosity about. Parsons’ racing career hit rock bottom, when family money and opportunity ran dry. So, he humbly went to Humpy Wheeler for help. The advice led him to a "real job" working with Travis Carter on Hal Needham and Burt Reynold's Skoal Bandit team. The team's drivers were stuntman Stan Barrett and the legendary Harry Gant. The job created a relationship with U.S. Tobacco which blossomed into funding for his own chances back behind the wheel. The sponsorship sent Parsons on a course for Cup. At first, he was just trying to stick in NASCAR's Late Model Sportsman ranks (now known as the Xfinity Series). His rookie season produced success and an opportunity the next year with the Skoal Bandit team in NASCAR's Cup Series. Parsons is well known for a massive crash he experienced at Talladega Superspeedway in Alabama which sent his racecar tumbling violently on the high-banks. He details the wreck from his vantage point and the pain it produced. Phil also experienced the jubilation of winning in NASCAR's elite series, when he captured a win, five years after his flip, at Talladega. He explains the Zen of having the perfect car that day and matching it with perfect strategy and drive. At the end of the 1989 season Phil elected to have cataract surgery. After the successful procedure, Parsons started in his next big opportunity, for the powerful Morgan McClure Racing team. But, only three races into his tenure with the team, he got a call saying that the team was going in a different direction. Phil opens up about taking that phone call and the decision that ultimately cut the growth of his Cup career. Parson's also reveals how false rumors about his eyesight then hindered potential chances in Cup. His decision to return the Xfinity Series was a family matter. He details the choice and how he built part-two of his racing career. Parsons goes into detail about his brother Benny and the wild repair job that netted him the 1973 NASCAR Cup Series Championship. He also talks about Benny's role as a television broadcaster and how his legacy lives on. Phil too followed in Benny's footsteps with a successful television career of his own, to which he still enjoys to this day. DIRTY AIR Before Parsons joins the show, Dale, Mike, Hannah and Matthew talk about: Dale and Amy's wild commercial travel adventures and their trip to France. The upcoming live DJD show at Nashville's Ole Red. Jeremy Mayfield and others winning after being on the show. The sport needing more short-track style road courses.   ASKJR presented by Xfinity The fan questions came rolling in about: What songs pump up Dale Jr. Road Course suggestions like running a green Sonoma or The Boot at the Glen! Dale Jr driving a V8 Supercar. Dale Jr. asked to Le Mans for Garage 56? and more To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Phil Parsons has done it all. From being the little brother of a NASCAR Legend, a racer, a team owner and a broadcaster, the only thing he hadn't done was come to the Bojangles Studio to sit down with Dale Earnhardt Jr. Until now. On his 65th birthday, Parsons sits down with Dale Jr. and Mike Davis about his fascinating life.All he wanted to do is race. Plain and simple. From the age of five, watching his brother Benny in daring Figure-8 races through his older brother's monumental ascension through the sport, little brother just wanted to drive. When he got his shot, it didn't come easy. He took a Vega and some infrequent opportunities and made the most of them by winning races in NASCAR's Baby Grand Series, which was to become the Dash Series. He won at places like Hickory Motor Speedway, Caraway Speedway, North Wilkesboro and Nashville. It's a period of Parsons’ story not often talked about and a time that Dale Jr. came to the table with curiosity about.Parsons’ racing career hit rock bottom, when family money and opportunity ran dry. So, he humbly went to Humpy Wheeler for help. The advice led him to a "real job" working with Travis Carter on Hal Needham and Burt Reynold's Skoal Bandit team. The team's drivers were stuntman Stan Barrett and the legendary Harry Gant. The job created a relationship with U.S. Tobacco which blossomed into funding for his own chances back behind the wheel. The sponsorship sent Parsons on a course for Cup. At first, he was just trying to stick in NASCAR's Late Model Sportsman ranks (now known as the Xfinity Series). His rookie season produced success and an opportunity the next year with the Skoal Bandit team in NASCAR's Cup Series.Parsons is well known for a massive crash he experienced at Talladega Superspeedway in Alabama which sent his racecar tumbling violently on the high-banks. He details the wreck from his vantage point and the pain it produced. Phil also experienced the jubilation of winning in NASCAR's elite series, when he captured a win, five years after his flip, at Talladega. He explains the Zen of having the perfect car that day and matching it with perfect strategy and drive.At the end of the 1989 season Phil elected to have cataract surgery. After the successful procedure, Parsons started in his next big opportunity, for the powerful Morgan McClure Racing team. But, only three races into his tenure with the team, he got a call saying that the team was going in a different direction. Phil opens up about taking that phone call and the decision that ultimately cut the growth of his Cup career. Parson's also reveals how false rumors about his eyesight then hindered potential chances in Cup.His decision to return the Xfinity Series was a family matter. He details the choice and how he built part-two of his racing career.Parsons goes into detail about his brother Benny and the wild repair job that netted him the 1973 NASCAR Cup Series Championship. He also talks about Benny's role as a television broadcaster and how his legacy lives on. Phil too followed in Benny's footsteps with a successful television career of his own, to which he still enjoys to this day.DIRTY AIR Before Parsons joins the show, Dale, Mike, Hannah and Matthew talk about: Dale and Amy's wild commercial travel adventures and their trip to France. The upcoming live DJD show at Nashville's Ole Red. Jeremy Mayfield and others winning after being on the show. The sport needing more short-track style road courses.  ASKJR presented by XfinityThe fan questions came rolling in about: What songs pump up Dale Jr. Road Course suggestions like running a green Sonoma or The Boot at the Glen! Dale Jr driving a V8 Supercar. Dale Jr. asked to Le Mans for Garage 56? and more To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

They say, it ain't cheatin' unless you're caught. Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis share some of the best cheating stories to ever be heard on the download, with some surprises thrown in. Has the statute of limitations passed? And is it really cheating? We like to call it creativity and innovation. From Todd Parrott illegally cutting NASCAR templates while officials are being distracted, to Darrell Waltrip using Nitrous to boost his racecar, these are tales that are of legend. On this episode we also hear from racing great, convicted felon and creative genius Gary Balough. He reveals some tales from his days cheating up racecars on the short tracks of America. Ward Burton even brings a Daytona cheat to the floor. One of Dale Earnhardt's early car owners tried to skirt around a Dale Earnhardt cheating story. Dale Jr. and Mike hold him to the fire and get one of the wildest admissions of cheating the table has ever heard. No cheating show would be complete without some stories from former crew chief, car owner and racer Andy Petree. Oh, and just when you think the show is over and all the tall-tales are done, we bring a new surprise into the studio and an unexpected guest. Dean Jones worked with Petree, at Leo Jackson's team, in a secret room making some intriguing things for their racecars. Jones brought something to the table that stole the show. DIRTY AIR Before getting to the dirt from our guests, the Dale Jr. Download gang comes to the table with their own admissions. What have they cheated on? Fess up! ASK JR presented by Xfinity Hannah Newhouse hits Dale Jr. with fan-submitted inquiries about: Who's the more trusted babysitter, Mike Davis or Matthew Dillner? Favorite and least favorite broadcast booths Goodwood dream ride? Some bucket-list tracks for Dale Jr to hit. Oswego Speedway and Supermodified glory To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

They say, it ain't cheatin' unless you're caught. Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis share some of the best cheating stories to ever be heard on the download, with some surprises thrown in. Has the statute of limitations passed? And is it really cheating? We like to call it creativity and innovation.From Todd Parrott illegally cutting NASCAR templates while officials are being distracted, to Darrell Waltrip using Nitrous to boost his racecar, these are tales that are of legend. On this episode we also hear from racing great, convicted felon and creative genius Gary Balough. He reveals some tales from his days cheating up racecars on the short tracks of America. Ward Burton even brings a Daytona cheat to the floor. One of Dale Earnhardt's early car owners tried to skirt around a Dale Earnhardt cheating story. Dale Jr. and Mike hold him to the fire and get one of the wildest admissions of cheating the table has ever heard.No cheating show would be complete without some stories from former crew chief, car owner and racer Andy Petree. Oh, and just when you think the show is over and all the tall-tales are done, we bring a new surprise into the studio and an unexpected guest. Dean Jones worked with Petree, at Leo Jackson's team, in a secret room making some intriguing things for their racecars. Jones brought something to the table that stole the show.DIRTY AIRBefore getting to the dirt from our guests, the Dale Jr. Download gang comes to the table with their own admissions. What have they cheated on? Fess up!ASK JR presented by XfinityHannah Newhouse hits Dale Jr. with fan-submitted inquiries about: Who's the more trusted babysitter, Mike Davis or Matthew Dillner? Favorite and least favorite broadcast booths Goodwood dream ride? Some bucket-list tracks for Dale Jr to hit. Oswego Speedway and Supermodified glory To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Bonus content for fans of The Dale Jr. Download: Dirty Mo Media's newest podcast, Speed Street, is hosted by IndyCar driver Conor Daly and comedian and social media influencer Joey Mulinaro. Enjoy their most recent episode and then follow and subscribe to Speed Street on major podcasting platforms. Find it on Twitter and Instagram at @SpeedStreetPod. New episodes post weekly. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Bonus content for fans of The Dale Jr. Download: Dirty Mo Media's newest podcast, Speed Street, is hosted by IndyCar driver Conor Daly and comedian and social media influencer Joey Mulinaro. Enjoy their most recent episode and then follow and subscribe to Speed Street on major podcasting platforms. Find it on Twitter and Instagram at @SpeedStreetPod. New episodes post weekly. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In part one with Jeremy Mayfield we dove head-first into the former driver's failed drug tests, lengthy court battles, indefinite suspension from NASCAR and the tangled web of alleged conspiracy that shrouds his story. Today, Dale Earnhardt Jr. and Mike Davis speak with Mayfield about the mighty rise before his world came tumbling down. The Kentucky native started as a fabricator before working his way onto the Nashville Fairgrounds Late Model racing scene. Through hard work came opportunity. On the short track scene, Mayfield won races, even ones he wasn't supposed to be entered in. Yes, there's a story there! His short track success led to a rise into the upper-ranks of NASCAR. But at first, Mayfield didn't have the speed. So he had to get "creative" to gain and advantage. But first, he needed to get some soaked tires by NASCAR's technical inspection process. Mayfield reveals the "wink" that paved the way to furthering his young career. Mayfield opens up about negotiations with Cale Yarborough when he signed his first major deal with a NASCAR team. His timeline, though jagged, rose upward to the Kranefuss-Hass team and then to driving for the great Roger Penske. During this time, he was clearly making it know that he was a force to reckon with. An in-team rivalry with Rusty Wallace got to near ridiculous levels. The day he planted his flag in the ground was at Pocono in 2000 when he moved Dale Earnhardt, on the final corner, to win. Jeremy details the controversial tangle and what the Intimidator's reaction was the next time they saw each other. The biggest break for Mayfield came with Dodge and Ray Evernham's No. 19 team. Mayfield won races and raced his way into NASCAR's playoffs in the high-profile ride. But it wasn't without drama either. Internal struggles with Ray Evernham went public. Then, Mayfield made a final mistake. Dale Jr. gets to the bottom of what led to Mayfield's departure, and eventually led to the downfall of his racing career.   DIRTY AIR Before getting to part-two of the Mayfield story, Dale Jr. & Mike Davis get animated discussing: A wild St. Louis Cup Series race full of its own drama Ross Chastain's post-race "trolling"? Will Denny Hamlin and Chase Elliott exact revenge? Conor Daly and Joey Mullinaro bring it in Speed Street debut.   ASKJR Presented by Xfinity Fan questions delivered to Dale with X-fi speed by Hannah Newhouse about: NASCAR Crown Jewels. Let's pick it and be done! The Future of the Xfinity Series. Electric? Safety response teams. Where can it improve? To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In part one with Jeremy Mayfield we dove head-first into the former driver's failed drug tests, lengthy court battles, indefinite suspension from NASCAR and the tangled web of alleged conspiracy that shrouds his story. Today, Dale Earnhardt Jr. and Mike Davis speak with Mayfield about the mighty rise before his world came tumbling down. The Kentucky native started as a fabricator before working his way onto the Nashville Fairgrounds Late Model racing scene. Through hard work came opportunity. On the short track scene, Mayfield won races, even ones he wasn't supposed to be entered in. Yes, there's a story there! His short track success led to a rise into the upper-ranks of NASCAR. But at first, Mayfield didn't have the speed. So he had to get "creative" to gain and advantage. But first, he needed to get some soaked tires by NASCAR's technical inspection process. Mayfield reveals the "wink" that paved the way to furthering his young career. Mayfield opens up about negotiations with Cale Yarborough when he signed his first major deal with a NASCAR team. His timeline, though jagged, rose upward to the Kranefuss-Hass team and then to driving for the great Roger Penske. During this time, he was clearly making it know that he was a force to reckon with. An in-team rivalry with Rusty Wallace got to near ridiculous levels. The day he planted his flag in the ground was at Pocono in 2000 when he moved Dale Earnhardt, on the final corner, to win. Jeremy details the controversial tangle and what the Intimidator's reaction was the next time they saw each other. The biggest break for Mayfield came with Dodge and Ray Evernham's No. 19 team. Mayfield won races and raced his way into NASCAR's playoffs in the high-profile ride. But it wasn't without drama either. Internal struggles with Ray Evernham went public. Then, Mayfield made a final mistake. Dale Jr. gets to the bottom of what led to Mayfield's departure, and eventually led to the downfall of his racing career.  DIRTY AIRBefore getting to part-two of the Mayfield story, Dale Jr. & Mike Davis get animated discussing: A wild St. Louis Cup Series race full of its own drama Ross Chastain's post-race "trolling"? Will Denny Hamlin and Chase Elliott exact revenge? Conor Daly and Joey Mullinaro bring it in Speed Street debut.  ASKJR Presented by XfinityFan questions delivered to Dale with X-fi speed by Hannah Newhouse about: NASCAR Crown Jewels. Let's pick it and be done! The Future of the Xfinity Series. Electric? Safety response teams. Where can it improve? To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jeremy Mayfield is still indefinitely suspended from NASCAR. Today he sits down with Dale Earnhardt Jr. and Mike Davis to share his story about the drug test that changed his NASCAR career, and life. The year was 2009, and Mayfield was a race-winner in NASCAR. May 1, 2009 he was called to perform a random drug test at Richmond Raceway. The test, and the result eight days later, would become one of the sport's biggest controversies of the era, and play out publicly and in the U.S. Court system. To this day, Mayfield denies any drug use. He contends that the positive test was a result of a combination of prescribed Adderall and over-the-counter Claritin-D. He was the first driver to trip a positive test under NASCAR's new substance abuse policy. Mayfield refused to play-ball and decided to fight America's largest motorsports sanctioning bodies. He not only contested the result, but questioned the head of NASCAR's drug lab, Aegis' Dr. David Black. The battle between NASCAR and Mayfield was all over the news and played out for years in the courts. Trouble seemed to follow Mayfield after the test and suspension. There was a July drug test in 2009 that resulted in a lengthy delay between the time of the call to test and Mayfield reporting. The Kentucky native opens up about what his lawyers were telling him to do and why the delay happened. That test, by NASCAR's lab, showed positive for high levels of methamphetamines. Mayfield says his independent tests, taken just hours later, showed no trace of the drug. In 2011, Mayfield's personal shop and house were the subject of a warrant and a raid by law enforcement. He details what happened from his vantage point when the SWAT teams arrived with machine guns and broke down the doors of his home. The raid resulted in a string of felony charges for stolen items and a charge for possession of meth. Mayfield denies the meth that was found and tells his take on the baggie they discovered in his safe. Mayfield still believes that all of the drug tests that tested positive were false or were a part of a greater conspiracy. He claims that a personal feud with NASCAR's Brian France was the root of much of his troubles. Now, this might not be "the' story, but it is "his" story. The Download gives the former racer a chance to share his account of the fascinating story.. DIRTY AIR Before Jeremy came to the table, the DJD crew talks about: The World 600 and why it shouldn't be named anything else. Chase Briscoe's Hail Mary full of crash. The new Dirty Mo Media podcast, Speed Street, with Indycar driver Conor Daly and Joey Mulinaro. ASKJR Presented by Xfinity Hannah Newhouse brings it with fan questions from Twitter and the live YouTube chat. The Snake Pit at the Indy 500. Dale's anxiety of having two aggressive JR Motorsports driver gunning for a win. The Roval wouldn't be here if the racing was as good as the 600 a few years ago. Dale going to a World of Outlaws race? To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jeremy Mayfield is still indefinitely suspended from NASCAR. Today he sits down with Dale Earnhardt Jr. and Mike Davis to share his story about the drug test that changed his NASCAR career, and life.The year was 2009, and Mayfield was a race-winner in NASCAR. May 1, 2009 he was called to perform a random drug test at Richmond Raceway. The test, and the result eight days later, would become one of the sport's biggest controversies of the era, and play out publicly and in the U.S. Court system. To this day, Mayfield denies any drug use. He contends that the positive test was a result of a combination of prescribed Adderall and over-the-counter Claritin-D. He was the first driver to trip a positive test under NASCAR's new substance abuse policy.Mayfield refused to play-ball and decided to fight America's largest motorsports sanctioning bodies. He not only contested the result, but questioned the head of NASCAR's drug lab, Aegis' Dr. David Black. The battle between NASCAR and Mayfield was all over the news and played out for years in the courts.Trouble seemed to follow Mayfield after the test and suspension. There was a July drug test in 2009 that resulted in a lengthy delay between the time of the call to test and Mayfield reporting. The Kentucky native opens up about what his lawyers were telling him to do and why the delay happened. That test, by NASCAR's lab, showed positive for high levels of methamphetamines. Mayfield says his independent tests, taken just hours later, showed no trace of the drug.In 2011, Mayfield's personal shop and house were the subject of a warrant and a raid by law enforcement. He details what happened from his vantage point when the SWAT teams arrived with machine guns and broke down the doors of his home. The raid resulted in a string of felony charges for stolen items and a charge for possession of meth. Mayfield denies the meth that was found and tells his take on the baggie they discovered in his safe.Mayfield still believes that all of the drug tests that tested positive were false or were a part of a greater conspiracy. He claims that a personal feud with NASCAR's Brian France was the root of much of his troubles.Now, this might not be "the' story, but it is "his" story. The Download gives the former racer a chance to share his account of the fascinating story..DIRTY AIRBefore Jeremy came to the table, the DJD crew talks about: The World 600 and why it shouldn't be named anything else. Chase Briscoe's Hail Mary full of crash. The new Dirty Mo Media podcast, Speed Street, with Indycar driver Conor Daly and Joey Mulinaro. ASKJR Presented by XfinityHannah Newhouse brings it with fan questions from Twitter and the live YouTube chat. The Snake Pit at the Indy 500. Dale's anxiety of having two aggressive JR Motorsports driver gunning for a win. The Roval wouldn't be here if the racing was as good as the 600 a few years ago. Dale going to a World of Outlaws race? To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

He's a NASCAR winner. He co-owns a race team with Michael Jordan. He's not afraid to tell it like it is. Denny Hamlin joins Dale Earnhardt Jr. and Mike Davis at the table for a bold and honest conversation about the sport. Hamlin comes in "full send" mode with his takes on the sport and the direction it is headed. His unique perspective, as a current competitor and car owner, gives him an even bigger voice at the table. Boy, does he use it! While he is candid about what he feels isn't right, he points out that his intentions are to make the sport better. Sometimes Denny's presence and opinions on social platforms and in the media have created controversy, but his voice has become one of a leader in the garage. Hamlin opens up about the conversations he's had with NASCAR CEO Jim France about the potential expansion of his team, 23XI Racing, and how they are on hold until further notice. Denny talks about what he needs to see before he and MJ take the two-car operation to the next level. Hamlin lets us in to how he feels about the business model of NASCAR between drivers, tv partners, teams and tracks. He says that the pie is big enough, but it needs to be divided differently. The veteran NASCAR driver pulls no punches in expressing what he believes needs to happen. Hamlin and Earnhardt discuss the state of the charter system in the sport and the pros and cons of starting a team in the Cup Series. If the sport expands to a higher number of charters, how much should a new team pay? Fresh off his second-place run at the NASCAR All-Star Race, Hamlin shares his disappointment in the controversial yellow flag and Ryan Blaney's window net issue. Plus, did his post race comments and use of the "F" word get him in hot water? Denny also explains what he thinks about the All Star Race as a whole and how the event, and other aspects of the sport, have become diluted. Dale Jr. asks Denny, who currently races the FedEx #11 for Joe Gibbs Racing in the NASCAR Cup Series, if he would drive for his own team someday. Earnhardt also gets Hamlin’s insight into the current dynamic at JGR with four full-time drivers, contract questions, and the emerging talent of Ty Gibbs waiting in the wings. What's gonna give? Denny also talks about his exit plan from behind the wheel of a racecar and what that will look like.. After struggling for a good chunk of 2022, Hamlin has reached victory lane. The season though, has only resulted in two top-five finishes. Denny gives his take on the Next Gen car's performance and which issues need to be addressed. He talks about Bubba Wallace's performance and 23XI Racing’s big win in Kansas with veteran driver Kurt Busch. DIRTY AIR Before Denny came to the table, Dale Jr., co-host Mike Davis, Hannah Newhouse and producer Matthew Dillner share some conversation about: The All Star Race and the controversial caution. The Window-net debacle and what should have been done. NASCAR owning one mistake but not the other. What should happen to the All Star Race in the future? Jimmie Johnson's run to the Indianapolis 500 has come with some big risks ASKJR presented by Xfinity Hannah Newhouse brings fan questions to the table about: Dale Jr.'s wildest appearances, including driving a tank and landing on an aircraft carrier. How Blaney handled the anxiety of the end of the All Star Race. Dale's childhood love for wrestling and how it was stifled in the Earnhardt homestead. Late Night drunken Waffle House orders To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

He's a NASCAR winner. He co-owns a race team with Michael Jordan. He's not afraid to tell it like it is. Denny Hamlin joins Dale Earnhardt Jr. and Mike Davis at the table for a bold and honest conversation about the sport.Hamlin comes in "full send" mode with his takes on the sport and the direction it is headed. His unique perspective, as a current competitor and car owner, gives him an even bigger voice at the table. Boy, does he use it! While he is candid about what he feels isn't right, he points out that his intentions are to make the sport better. Sometimes Denny's presence and opinions on social platforms and in the media have created controversy, but his voice has become one of a leader in the garage. Hamlin opens up about the conversations he's had with NASCAR CEO Jim France about the potential expansion of his team, 23XI Racing, and how they are on hold until further notice. Denny talks about what he needs to see before he and MJ take the two-car operation to the next level.Hamlin lets us in to how he feels about the business model of NASCAR between drivers, tv partners, teams and tracks. He says that the pie is big enough, but it needs to be divided differently. The veteran NASCAR driver pulls no punches in expressing what he believes needs to happen. Hamlin and Earnhardt discuss the state of the charter system in the sport and the pros and cons of starting a team in the Cup Series. If the sport expands to a higher number of charters, how much should a new team pay?Fresh off his second-place run at the NASCAR All-Star Race, Hamlin shares his disappointment in the controversial yellow flag and Ryan Blaney's window net issue. Plus, did his post race comments and use of the "F" word get him in hot water? Denny also explains what he thinks about the All Star Race as a whole and how the event, and other aspects of the sport, have become diluted.Dale Jr. asks Denny, who currently races the FedEx #11 for Joe Gibbs Racing in the NASCAR Cup Series, if he would drive for his own team someday. Earnhardt also gets Hamlin’s insight into the current dynamic at JGR with four full-time drivers, contract questions, and the emerging talent of Ty Gibbs waiting in the wings. What's gonna give? Denny also talks about his exit plan from behind the wheel of a racecar and what that will look like..After struggling for a good chunk of 2022, Hamlin has reached victory lane. The season though, has only resulted in two top-five finishes. Denny gives his take on the Next Gen car's performance and which issues need to be addressed. He talks about Bubba Wallace's performance and 23XI Racing’s big win in Kansas with veteran driver Kurt Busch.DIRTY AIRBefore Denny came to the table, Dale Jr., co-host Mike Davis, Hannah Newhouse and producer Matthew Dillner share some conversation about: The All Star Race and the controversial caution. The Window-net debacle and what should have been done. NASCAR owning one mistake but not the other. What should happen to the All Star Race in the future? Jimmie Johnson's run to the Indianapolis 500 has come with some big risks ASKJR presented by XfinityHannah Newhouse brings fan questions to the table about: Dale Jr.'s wildest appearances, including driving a tank and landing on an aircraft carrier. How Blaney handled the anxiety of the end of the All Star Race. Dale's childhood love for wrestling and how it was stifled in the Earnhardt homestead. Late Night drunken Waffle House orders To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Yates, a name synonymous with power. Master engine builder Doug Yates, son of NASCAR Hall of Famer Robert Yates, comes to "the table of truth" to share stories with Dale Earnhardt Jr., and co-host Mike Davis, about a family legacy filled with ups, downs and everything between. Growing up in North Carolina, the epicenter of modern stock car racing, Doug knew nothing different than his father Robert working on engines. But life in Charlotte shifted to the hills of North Wilkesboro. The Yates family uprooted, and went to work for NASCAR car-owner and folk hero Junior Johnson. Living on a farm, just steps away from a modest laboratory of speed, Robert Yates crafted horsepower into the wee hours of the night with his young son right beside him. Doug details the formidable years they spent in Wilkes County and how it prepared them for their racing timeline. When DiGard Racing came calling, Robert packed up and left the farm. The departure caused tension between Robert and Junior for years. It wouldn't be the only tension. Darrell Waltrip's departure from DiGard resulted in unspoken animosity that spanned decades. It wasn't until Robert's final months, before cancer took his life, that son Doug found a way to get them together to bury the hatchet. Doug gives us a unique perspective on DiGard’s successes, like the ‘83 title run w/ Bobby Allison and the Daytona 500 win that some called “bumper-gate.” He also details dynamics that led to the fall of DiGard and his father leaving the sport. In 1985, just two years after his engine won, Yates watched the Great American Race from his television. But soon the sport that came calling for Yates again. Rick Hendrick was using his engines when Ford set up the next opportunity. Doug carefully details the alignment with Ranier-Lundy racing that led eventually led to the creation of Robert Yates Racing. While young phenom Rusty Wallace was in line to be their driver, Yates took a swing in a different direction, choosing a racer with a familiar pedigree, Davey Allison. With Allison's raw talent and the straightaway speed of Yates Engines, it created speed that even the Intimidator wasn't pleased with. Doug admits the Yates engines were cranking out about 50-horsepower more than the other Ford engines. This forced NASCAR to get involved. The following years of the Yates story read like a novel. Wins and a near title w/ Davey were followed by his untimely death in a helicopter crash in 1993. Yates opens up about his family's struggle with moving on from a driver that was like a son and a brother. Then, their next big star, Ernie Irvan’s practice crash at Michigan International Speedway. Ernie returned from severe head injuries, to win w/ RYR, but the accident proved to stunt the growth of a once promising career. Most don’t know that the next step for RYR nearly put Dale Earnhardt as the driver of the Texaco No. 28 Ford. What? But, it was Robert Yates who said he wanted another Dale. Once again, Yates went a different direction and his choice was Dale Jarrett. The combo proved lethal, netting the team two Daytona 500's and the 1998 NASCAR Cup Series Championship. Doug opens up about the unusual partnership that brought bitter rivals and the two giants of Ford Racing Engines to form an unlikely alliance. Just how did Jack Roush and Robert Yates agree to partner? Doug holds the key. The company still thrives today but not just in racing, manufacturing for medical companies, defense projects and more. OPEN SEGMENT Dale Jr. announces his new children’s book “Buster’s Trip to Victory Lane” “The” new and dirty name for Open Segment Mike’s commencement speech Kurt Busch's win! ASKJR presented by Xfinity Hannah brings fan questions to the table about: Drivers pulling those belts tight Dale Jr.’s Black-top desires How Dale Earnhardt would handle the SIM To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Yates, a name synonymous with power. Master engine builder Doug Yates, son of NASCAR Hall of Famer Robert Yates, comes to "the table of truth" to share stories with Dale Earnhardt Jr., and co-host Mike Davis, about a family legacy filled with ups, downs and everything between.Growing up in North Carolina, the epicenter of modern stock car racing, Doug knew nothing different than his father Robert working on engines. But life in Charlotte shifted to the hills of North Wilkesboro. The Yates family uprooted, and went to work for NASCAR car-owner and folk hero Junior Johnson. Living on a farm, just steps away from a modest laboratory of speed, Robert Yates crafted horsepower into the wee hours of the night with his young son right beside him. Doug details the formidable years they spent in Wilkes County and how it prepared them for their racing timeline.When DiGard Racing came calling, Robert packed up and left the farm. The departure caused tension between Robert and Junior for years. It wouldn't be the only tension. Darrell Waltrip's departure from DiGard resulted in unspoken animosity that spanned decades. It wasn't until Robert's final months, before cancer took his life, that son Doug found a way to get them together to bury the hatchet.Doug gives us a unique perspective on DiGard’s successes, like the ‘83 title run w/ Bobby Allison and the Daytona 500 win that some called “bumper-gate.” He also details dynamics that led to the fall of DiGard and his father leaving the sport. In 1985, just two years after his engine won, Yates watched the Great American Race from his television.But soon the sport that came calling for Yates again. Rick Hendrick was using his engines when Ford set up the next opportunity. Doug carefully details the alignment with Ranier-Lundy racing that led eventually led to the creation of Robert Yates Racing.While young phenom Rusty Wallace was in line to be their driver, Yates took a swing in a different direction, choosing a racer with a familiar pedigree, Davey Allison. With Allison's raw talent and the straightaway speed of Yates Engines, it created speed that even the Intimidator wasn't pleased with. Doug admits the Yates engines were cranking out about 50-horsepower more than the other Ford engines. This forced NASCAR to get involved.The following years of the Yates story read like a novel. Wins and a near title w/ Davey were followed by his untimely death in a helicopter crash in 1993. Yates opens up about his family's struggle with moving on from a driver that was like a son and a brother. Then, their next big star, Ernie Irvan’s practice crash at Michigan International Speedway. Ernie returned from severe head injuries, to win w/ RYR, but the accident proved to stunt the growth of a once promising career.Most don’t know that the next step for RYR nearly put Dale Earnhardt as the driver of the Texaco No. 28 Ford. What? But, it was Robert Yates who said he wanted another Dale. Once again, Yates went a different direction and his choice was Dale Jarrett. The combo proved lethal, netting the team two Daytona 500's and the 1998 NASCAR Cup Series Championship.Doug opens up about the unusual partnership that brought bitter rivals and the two giants of Ford Racing Engines to form an unlikely alliance. Just how did Jack Roush and Robert Yates agree to partner? Doug holds the key. The company still thrives today but not just in racing, manufacturing for medical companies, defense projects and more.OPEN SEGMENT Dale Jr. announces his new children’s book “Buster’s Trip to Victory Lane” “The” new and dirty name for Open Segment Mike’s commencement speech Kurt Busch's win! ASKJR presented by XfinityHannah brings fan questions to the table about: Drivers pulling those belts tight Dale Jr.’s Black-top desires How Dale Earnhardt would handle the SIM To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

When a Motorsports icon walks into the room, that room changes. Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis welcome four-time Indianapolis 500 winner Rick Mears to the table for a fascinating discussion about his storied racing career. From the streets of Bakersfield came a young man, with a motorcycle and a thirst for competition. The sensible influence of a mother, added two more wheels underneath Rick Mears. Little did she know that it would lead to being one of the fastest racers on the planet. First, young Rick honed his skills on the dirt of Ascot Park, jumping and sliding around in Sprint Buggies. The world of off-road racing took young him to the desert, where races like the Mint 400 and the Baja 1000 introduced Mears to some of the giants of Motorsport. As his reputation grew, so did opportunity. Bill Simpson plucked Mears from the dirt into open-wheeled racecars. Two years later, this quiet Californian was attempting to qualify for the Indianapolis 500. His first 500 attempt came with failure. The experience of not making the 33-car field came with learning opportunities and a random meeting that would change the course of Mears' life. Enter Roger Penske. The famed racing team owner tabbed the virtually unknown racer to pilot one of his open-wheeled beasts. The duo blossomed into what became one of the most successful driver-car owner combinations in the sports' history. Mears' style was calm and calculated. Rick admits that his demeaner led to an embarrassing and potentially dangerous moment in the opening laps of his first Indy 500. It was so bad, that he didn't even want to cue the radio to tell Roger Penske. It's a story you have to hear to believe. Rick says that "being strapped to a bomb," inside of an Indycar, will teach a racecar driver to go to the limit of speed and not go over. How did a young Mears deal with the ever-present factory of fear and develop the uncanny ability to walk a car to the edge of disaster so successfully? While his early career was pretty clean, disaster did strike Mears eventually. He admits to Dale Jr. and Mike that the horrific crash at San Air in Canada that left his feet shattered, was caused by driver error. Mears survived the crash but endured through most of his career feeling the pain caused by the incident. Mears became a four-time Indy 500 Champion, a feat only accomplished by three other drivers in the 104th running of the world's most famous race. But during some of those wins, Mears viewed Indy as just another race. It wasn't until later in his racing life, that he learned to appreciate what Indianapolis truly meant. Out of a curiosity created by filming the tv show "Lost Speedways" Mike Davis inquires about Rick Mears' take on the USAC / CART split in 1979. This question leads to Mears revealing that he had once tested a Formula-1 car and even had a signed contract with Bernie Ecclestone. Why did Mears stay the course in American open-wheel racing rather than a move overseas to the world of F1? Mears opens up about his disastrous 1992 Indy crash and the change in his mindset that led to hanging up the helmet. While many wanted him to go for an unprecedented 5th Indy 500 win, Mears knew it was his time to walk away. OPEN SEGMENT Before Mears entered the Bojangles Studio, the DJD gang took a fresh new swing at the "Open Segment" of the show to talk about: Kyle Busch leaving his racecar on pit road and walking away to the garage at Darlington. Joey Logano's controversial last lap contact with William Byron for the win. Is Joey doing it right? How should Byron handle it moving forward? Dale Jr. and Rutledge Wood's role in the Kentucky Derby broadcast and the awkwardness of interviewing Jack Harlow and Drake. What should the "Open Segment" of the show be called anyway? ASKJR presented by Xfinity Hannah Newhouse serves up fan questions about: Miami's F1 Weekend Strange Things Dale has autographed. North Wilkesboro Speedway News Dale's Rich Strike moment and more! To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

When a Motorsports icon walks into the room, that room changes. Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis welcome four-time Indianapolis 500 winner Rick Mears to the table for a fascinating discussion about his storied racing career.From the streets of Bakersfield came a young man, with a motorcycle and a thirst for competition. The sensible influence of a mother, added two more wheels underneath Rick Mears. Little did she know that it would lead to being one of the fastest racers on the planet. First, young Rick honed his skills on the dirt of Ascot Park, jumping and sliding around in Sprint Buggies. The world of off-road racing took young him to the desert, where races like the Mint 400 and the Baja 1000 introduced Mears to some of the giants of Motorsport. As his reputation grew, so did opportunity. Bill Simpson plucked Mears from the dirt into open-wheeled racecars. Two years later, this quiet Californian was attempting to qualify for the Indianapolis 500.His first 500 attempt came with failure. The experience of not making the 33-car field came with learning opportunities and a random meeting that would change the course of Mears' life. Enter Roger Penske. The famed racing team owner tabbed the virtually unknown racer to pilot one of his open-wheeled beasts. The duo blossomed into what became one of the most successful driver-car owner combinations in the sports' history.Mears' style was calm and calculated. Rick admits that his demeaner led to an embarrassing and potentially dangerous moment in the opening laps of his first Indy 500. It was so bad, that he didn't even want to cue the radio to tell Roger Penske. It's a story you have to hear to believe.Rick says that "being strapped to a bomb," inside of an Indycar, will teach a racecar driver to go to the limit of speed and not go over. How did a young Mears deal with the ever-present factory of fear and develop the uncanny ability to walk a car to the edge of disaster so successfully?While his early career was pretty clean, disaster did strike Mears eventually. He admits to Dale Jr. and Mike that the horrific crash at San Air in Canada that left his feet shattered, was caused by driver error. Mears survived the crash but endured through most of his career feeling the pain caused by the incident. Mears became a four-time Indy 500 Champion, a feat only accomplished by three other drivers in the 104th running of the world's most famous race. But during some of those wins, Mears viewed Indy as just another race. It wasn't until later in his racing life, that he learned to appreciate what Indianapolis truly meant.Out of a curiosity created by filming the tv show "Lost Speedways" Mike Davis inquires about Rick Mears' take on the USAC / CART split in 1979. This question leads to Mears revealing that he had once tested a Formula-1 car and even had a signed contract with Bernie Ecclestone. Why did Mears stay the course in American open-wheel racing rather than a move overseas to the world of F1?Mears opens up about his disastrous 1992 Indy crash and the change in his mindset that led to hanging up the helmet. While many wanted him to go for an unprecedented 5th Indy 500 win, Mears knew it was his time to walk away.OPEN SEGMENT Before Mears entered the Bojangles Studio, the DJD gang took a fresh new swing at the "Open Segment" of the show to talk about: Kyle Busch leaving his racecar on pit road and walking away to the garage at Darlington. Joey Logano's controversial last lap contact with William Byron for the win. Is Joey doing it right? How should Byron handle it moving forward? Dale Jr. and Rutledge Wood's role in the Kentucky Derby broadcast and the awkwardness of interviewing Jack Harlow and Drake. What should the "Open Segment" of the show be called anyway? ASKJR presented by XfinityHannah Newhouse serves up fan questions about: Miami's F1 Weekend Strange Things Dale has autographed. North Wilkesboro Speedway News Dale's Rich Strike moment and more! To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

"The GOAT" Ricky Carmichael sits down with Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis for a fascinating discussion about his decorated career as the greatest motocross and supercross, rider of all-time, his brief go at NASCAR and much more. Dale Jr. admits that when Carmichael enters a room, the room changes. Ricky brings much more than an impressive resume to the Bojangles Studio. He brings honesty and openness about the ups and downs of his career. From dirt to riches, he details his humble beginnings in Florida and how a 5-year-old went from riding a three-wheel bike to becoming a 2-wheel racing icon. Carmichael admits, he didn't race for himself, but his parents. They were the motivation he used to succeed in his early riding days. He reveals that for years, he actually hated dirt bikes. Racing MX / SX takes more than just God-given talent, it takes bravery. Dale Jr. and Mike get Ricky to talk about the mindset that it takes to make it in such a wild sport. At first came failure, than a dedication to his craft that led him to finally beat the great Jeremy McGrath in 2001. Then, in 2002 and 2004, Carmichael did the unthinkable. He was perfect. 24 wins in 24 races, for two seasons, solidified his status as a legend of the game. But in between the success' was heartache, tough business decisions and injuries, that threatened it all. Hear how Carmichael raced through a torn ACL to try to progress his racing career. RC talks about his current life as a broadcaster and how the passionate and vocal Supercross fanbase makes his job even more of a challenge. He opens up about the business side from the various perspectives he's had as a rider, a broadcaster and a team owner in the MX/SX ranks. Do present-day riders get paid what they should? "Someone's making money," says Carmichael. Ricky's retirement form motorcycle racing in 2007 sent shockwaves across the sport. But it wasn't the end of his racing career, he just added two wheels! A conversation with Kasey Kahne and a test session in a Ray Evernham Late Model at Hickory Speedway in North Carolina, led to the start of his Stock Car Racing career. Ricky details why he made the decision to sign with Ginn racing over the Joe Gibbs development program. The move put him running Super Late Models in his home state of Florida under the tutelage of NASCAR Hall of Famer Mark Martin. When the Ginn team collapsed, the next move put him in an ARCA racecar for the legendary Ken Schrader's team. Their success led to a call from Kevin Harvick and a shot at the big leagues in the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series. In three years he racked up four top-five finishes in the Trucks and a handful of Xfinity Series starts. With long-time partner Monster Energy, the next step in his career was just one signature away. The plan had Carmichael splitting the seat with Kyle Busch in a Kyle Busch Motorsports Xfinity Series car. Just how did two separate Busch brother controversies lead to the collapse of a deal in the final hour? For the first time, Carmichael opens up about what happened and how it pretty much ended his NASCAR career. OPEN SEGMENT Before Ricky Carmichael came into the studio, The Download welcomed Trackhouse Racing team owner Justin Marks to the table. They touch on the sudden success of the new team. But, what Marks really came for, was to reveal the Darlington throwback scheme for both of his NASCAR Cup Series cars. The announcement and execution of the liveries had Dale Jr. breathless. ASKJR PRESENTED BY XFINITY Hannah Newhouse brings fan questions from Xfinity Twitter and the Dirty Mo Media YouTube about: JRM's 1,2,4,5 finish and how Door Bumper Clear is the Kyle Busch of Motorsports media. Monday Night Racing and how it has led to an increase in "wreck avoidance". How to achieve a Throwback Eclipse in NASCAR How Ross the Renter is a bona fide contender for the child. Oh, and Dale gives insight into Chastain's post-race talk with Martin Truex Jr. A possible DEI racecar graveyard To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

"The GOAT" Ricky Carmichael sits down with Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis for a fascinating discussion about his decorated career as the greatest motocross and supercross, rider of all-time, his brief go at NASCAR and much more.Dale Jr. admits that when Carmichael enters a room, the room changes. Ricky brings much more than an impressive resume to the Bojangles Studio. He brings honesty and openness about the ups and downs of his career. From dirt to riches, he details his humble beginnings in Florida and how a 5-year-old went from riding a three-wheel bike to becoming a 2-wheel racing icon. Carmichael admits, he didn't race for himself, but his parents. They were the motivation he used to succeed in his early riding days. He reveals that for years, he actually hated dirt bikes.Racing MX / SX takes more than just God-given talent, it takes bravery. Dale Jr. and Mike get Ricky to talk about the mindset that it takes to make it in such a wild sport. At first came failure, than a dedication to his craft that led him to finally beat the great Jeremy McGrath in 2001. Then, in 2002 and 2004, Carmichael did the unthinkable. He was perfect. 24 wins in 24 races, for two seasons, solidified his status as a legend of the game. But in between the success' was heartache, tough business decisions and injuries, that threatened it all. Hear how Carmichael raced through a torn ACL to try to progress his racing career.RC talks about his current life as a broadcaster and how the passionate and vocal Supercross fanbase makes his job even more of a challenge. He opens up about the business side from the various perspectives he's had as a rider, a broadcaster and a team owner in the MX/SX ranks. Do present-day riders get paid what they should? "Someone's making money," says Carmichael.Ricky's retirement form motorcycle racing in 2007 sent shockwaves across the sport. But it wasn't the end of his racing career, he just added two wheels! A conversation with Kasey Kahne and a test session in a Ray Evernham Late Model at Hickory Speedway in North Carolina, led to the start of his Stock Car Racing career. Ricky details why he made the decision to sign with Ginn racing over the Joe Gibbs development program. The move put him running Super Late Models in his home state of Florida under the tutelage of NASCAR Hall of Famer Mark Martin. When the Ginn team collapsed, the next move put him in an ARCA racecar for the legendary Ken Schrader's team. Their success led to a call from Kevin Harvick and a shot at the big leagues in the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series. In three years he racked up four top-five finishes in the Trucks and a handful of Xfinity Series starts.With long-time partner Monster Energy, the next step in his career was just one signature away. The plan had Carmichael splitting the seat with Kyle Busch in a Kyle Busch Motorsports Xfinity Series car. Just how did two separate Busch brother controversies lead to the collapse of a deal in the final hour? For the first time, Carmichael opens up about what happened and how it pretty much ended his NASCAR career.OPEN SEGMENTBefore Ricky Carmichael came into the studio, The Download welcomed Trackhouse Racing team owner Justin Marks to the table. They touch on the sudden success of the new team. But, what Marks really came for, was to reveal the Darlington throwback scheme for both of his NASCAR Cup Series cars. The announcement and execution of the liveries had Dale Jr. breathless.ASKJR PRESENTED BY XFINITYHannah Newhouse brings fan questions from Xfinity Twitter and the Dirty Mo Media YouTube about: JRM's 1,2,4,5 finish and how Door Bumper Clear is the Kyle Busch of Motorsports media. Monday Night Racing and how it has led to an increase in "wreck avoidance". How to achieve a Throwback Eclipse in NASCAR How Ross the Renter is a bona fide contender for the child. Oh, and Dale gives insight into Chastain's post-race talk with Martin Truex Jr. A possible DEI racecar graveyard To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this edition of The Dale Jr. Download, Dale Jr., co-host Mike Davis and special guests take a look back at some of the best Earnhardt stories of all-time. We reach far into the way-back machine to a couch discussion with NASCAR Hall of Famer Terry Labonte. Labonte was on the receiving end of one of the more famous shots from the front bumper of The Intimidator's No, 3 car at Bristol Motor Speedway. Just how did "Texas Terry" balance the awkwardness of being hunting buddies and fierce competitors during the peak of both of their careers. Dale Jr. and great friend Hank Parker Jr. talk about the relationship their father's had and how it helped their's blossom. It leads the table to learn of one of the funniest Dale Earnhardt hunting stories of all time! Dale Earnhardt's long-time car owner and great friend Richard Childress shares intimate details of a hunting trip that resulted in near tragedy. How did a campfire promise made on the trip keep Richard Childress racing after the death of Dale Earnhardt in 2001? Last but not least, one of the most popular guests on The Download, the legendary Ken Schrader, shares the story of all stories. Dale Jr. calls it "The Trip," and boy was it a trip! When you mix a teenage Dale Jr. with dirt track veteran Ken Schrader, and add in nudie magazines, beer, hitchhiking and a strip club, you get quite the damn story. It's a trip that drew the ire of "Dad" Earnhardt. As for Schrader? He ultimately paid the price. OPEN SEGMENT Before reminiscing on Earnhardt stories, Mike and Dale discuss something that has been on their minds leading up to the up-coming NASCAR Throwback Weekend at Darlington Raceway. The two friends share their real feelings about what has become a cherished part of the NASCAR season, what it may look like, and how the entire industry should approach it. ASKJR presented by Xfinity Hannah Newhouse brings fan questions to the table of truth. Who on the Dirty Mo Media team have habits that annoy me. It gets super-honest and hilarious. The Adam Petty shoes Dale showed on MTV Cribs back in the day. Racecar numbers slanting forward or backwards? Designing a racetrack from scratch. Plenty of time to pick on producer Matthew Dillner To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this edition of The Dale Jr. Download, Dale Jr., co-host Mike Davis and special guests take a look back at some of the best Earnhardt stories of all-time.We reach far into the way-back machine to a couch discussion with NASCAR Hall of Famer Terry Labonte. Labonte was on the receiving end of one of the more famous shots from the front bumper of The Intimidator's No, 3 car at Bristol Motor Speedway. Just how did "Texas Terry" balance the awkwardness of being hunting buddies and fierce competitors during the peak of both of their careers. Dale Jr. and great friend Hank Parker Jr. talk about the relationship their father's had and how it helped their's blossom. It leads the table to learn of one of the funniest Dale Earnhardt hunting stories of all time! Dale Earnhardt's long-time car owner and great friend Richard Childress shares intimate details of a hunting trip that resulted in near tragedy. How did a campfire promise made on the trip keep Richard Childress racing after the death of Dale Earnhardt in 2001?Last but not least, one of the most popular guests on The Download, the legendary Ken Schrader, shares the story of all stories. Dale Jr. calls it "The Trip," and boy was it a trip! When you mix a teenage Dale Jr. with dirt track veteran Ken Schrader, and add in nudie magazines, beer, hitchhiking and a strip club, you get quite the damn story. It's a trip that drew the ire of "Dad" Earnhardt. As for Schrader? He ultimately paid the price.OPEN SEGMENTBefore reminiscing on Earnhardt stories, Mike and Dale discuss something that has been on their minds leading up to the up-coming NASCAR Throwback Weekend at Darlington Raceway. The two friends share their real feelings about what has become a cherished part of the NASCAR season, what it may look like, and how the entire industry should approach it.ASKJR presented by Xfinity Hannah Newhouse brings fan questions to the table of truth. Who on the Dirty Mo Media team have habits that annoy me. It gets super-honest and hilarious. The Adam Petty shoes Dale showed on MTV Cribs back in the day. Racecar numbers slanting forward or backwards? Designing a racetrack from scratch. Plenty of time to pick on producer Matthew Dillner To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The NFL and NASCAR combine as a pair of well-known 88's, three-time Pro Bowl tight end Greg Olsen joins two-time Daytona 500 winner Dale Earnhardt Jr. at the table of truth. Olsen opens up to Dale Jr. and co-host Mike Davis about his journey from a local New Jersey football family to playing in the National Football League. The two athletes met years ago, and forged a solid friendship through shared charitable endeavors.. Thanks our new sponsor Ally, Olsen walked into the Bojangles studio ready to hit the ground running. He detailed the ups and downs of his football life and the values instilled in him by his father that he took along with him every step of the way. Dale Jr. and Greg share their thoughts on the psychology of raising children in a sport and that there is more valuable lessons to be learned by a young mind than just winning a game. Pro football player Olsen is now coach-dad on the baseball field for his children's teams..  Olsen talks about the process of being recruited by colleges during his high school football career and the realities involved in the process. We learn that his father made Greg do something very difficult to let down the coaches from the schools that he wasn't choosing. In doing so he taught some valuable lessons. He also reveals his tenure with Notre Dame and the tough decision to vacate the famed Indiana-based academy for the palm trees of Miami beach and the University of Miami Hurricanes. Curiosity over the combine events that scout college players before they are drafter in the NFL, Dale Jr. gets Greg Olsen to open up about his experience at the event. It's a rare peek into what really happens between player reps, scouts and teams during the NFL Combine. It also lets us in the killer-instinct and mental game that Olsen used throughout much of his football career. The 6-foot-5, 255-pound tight end offers his memories of getting drafted by the Chicago Bears in the first round. Then a few years later, one of the worst trades in Bears history sent Olsen to the North Carolina to play for the Carolina Panthers. Olsen saw the majority of his success in Carolina, and gives us a look behind the curtain of NFL locker room life. What was it like playing with star quarterback Cam Newton? Was the polarizing figure a distraction? Olsen also details getting released by the Panthers and the many difficulties he faced in his year with the Seattle Seahawks, from the CoVid-19 pandemic to coaching, that helped lead to his decision to retire from the game. The biggest fight Olsen faced didn't come from a linebacker or a free-safety. It came from within his family. In 2012, he and wife Kara gave birth to twins T.J. and Talbot. T.J. was born with a congenital heart defect that required multiple surgeries, including three open-heart procedures. In 2021, his heart started to fail. T.J. received a heart transplant and is now an active nine-year-old boy. Olsen opens up about the decisions to share the incredibly tough journey with the public. OPEN SEGMENT Before Greg Olsen came into the Dirty Mo Media Bojangles studio, Dale Jr., Mike and the gang unpacked some feelings about the recent news of North Wilkesboro Speedway coming off the Lost Speedways list to host racing again. They explain how it’s now up to the fans to prove that North Wilkesboro, and other small market tracks like it, are viable racing facilities, by showing up to the races. Dale's ready to tailgate, are you? The revival has Dale Jr. so excited, that he is even thinking about hopping in a racecar himself at the historic North Carolina track. Wait, what? It's a revelation that had us all floored. ASKJR presented by Xfinity Hanna Newhouse brings fan questions from @XfinityRacing on twitter about: Dale Jr. joining the Fox broadcast team for the Talladega race. Cruising the Talladega infield The time Dale Jr. drove a Petty-43 Ford at Nashville Fairgrounds Dale Earnhardt's role in the motion picture "BASEketball.” To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The NFL and NASCAR combine as a pair of well-known 88's, three-time Pro Bowl tight end Greg Olsen joins two-time Daytona 500 winner Dale Earnhardt Jr. at the table of truth. Olsen opens up to Dale Jr. and co-host Mike Davis about his journey from a local New Jersey football family to playing in the National Football League. The two athletes met years ago, and forged a solid friendship through shared charitable endeavors..Thanks our new sponsor Ally, Olsen walked into the Bojangles studio ready to hit the ground running. He detailed the ups and downs of his football life and the values instilled in him by his father that he took along with him every step of the way. Dale Jr. and Greg share their thoughts on the psychology of raising children in a sport and that there is more valuable lessons to be learned by a young mind than just winning a game. Pro football player Olsen is now coach-dad on the baseball field for his children's teams.. Olsen talks about the process of being recruited by colleges during his high school football career and the realities involved in the process. We learn that his father made Greg do something very difficult to let down the coaches from the schools that he wasn't choosing. In doing so he taught some valuable lessons. He also reveals his tenure with Notre Dame and the tough decision to vacate the famed Indiana-based academy for the palm trees of Miami beach and the University of Miami Hurricanes.Curiosity over the combine events that scout college players before they are drafter in the NFL, Dale Jr. gets Greg Olsen to open up about his experience at the event. It's a rare peek into what really happens between player reps, scouts and teams during the NFL Combine. It also lets us in the killer-instinct and mental game that Olsen used throughout much of his football career. The 6-foot-5, 255-pound tight end offers his memories of getting drafted by the Chicago Bears in the first round. Then a few years later, one of the worst trades in Bears history sent Olsen to the North Carolina to play for the Carolina Panthers. Olsen saw the majority of his success in Carolina, and gives us a look behind the curtain of NFL locker room life. What was it like playing with star quarterback Cam Newton? Was the polarizing figure a distraction? Olsen also details getting released by the Panthers and the many difficulties he faced in his year with the Seattle Seahawks, from the CoVid-19 pandemic to coaching, that helped lead to his decision to retire from the game.The biggest fight Olsen faced didn't come from a linebacker or a free-safety. It came from within his family. In 2012, he and wife Kara gave birth to twins T.J. and Talbot. T.J. was born with a congenital heart defect that required multiple surgeries, including three open-heart procedures. In 2021, his heart started to fail. T.J. received a heart transplant and is now an active nine-year-old boy. Olsen opens up about the decisions to share the incredibly tough journey with the public.OPEN SEGMENTBefore Greg Olsen came into the Dirty Mo Media Bojangles studio, Dale Jr., Mike and the gang unpacked some feelings about the recent news of North Wilkesboro Speedway coming off the Lost Speedways list to host racing again. They explain how it’s now up to the fans to prove that North Wilkesboro, and other small market tracks like it, are viable racing facilities, by showing up to the races. Dale's ready to tailgate, are you? The revival has Dale Jr. so excited, that he is even thinking about hopping in a racecar himself at the historic North Carolina track. Wait, what? It's a revelation that had us all floored.ASKJR presented by XfinityHanna Newhouse brings fan questions from @XfinityRacing on twitter about: Dale Jr. joining the Fox broadcast team for the Talladega race. Cruising the Talladega infield The time Dale Jr. drove a Petty-43 Ford at Nashville Fairgrounds Dale Earnhardt's role in the motion picture "BASEketball.” To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

There's nothing like the bond of family. This week Dale Earnhardt Jr. welcomes in his sister Kelley Earnhardt Miller to sit down with their Aunt, Cathy Watkins, for a peek behind the curtain of the Earnhardt story. From V8 and Sedan street in Kannapolis, NC a motorsports legacy was born. The King of the dirt tracks, Ralph Earnhardt, was tearing up the circuit feeding his family with race wins and working on racecars. Of course, in 1952 came the birth of his son Dale Earnhardt, regarded as one of the best stock car racers of all-time. But before there was a Dale, there was a Cathy. Aunt Cathy wanted to be one of the boys. She loved washing parts in Ralph's backyard racing shop. But soon came womanhood and she was removed from the male-dominated garage. That was a tough pill to swallow. Ya see, Cathy was born into a true passion for racing. A few years later, Cathy was able to show her racing worth in what was then known as "Powder-Puff" races. The all-female races were an added bonus to a local short track racing program. But to an Earnhardt, it was a chance to win. In a span of decade, Cathy went ten-for-ten in Powder Puff events to become the only undefeated Earnhardt. Cathy gives a personal look into what it was like to grow up in the Earnhardt house in Kannapolis. She details the unrelenting strictness of Ralph Earnhardt and what was expected of them as children. She also reveals that Ralph Earnhardt did more than just work on his own cars, he worked on liquor cars for legendary racer and moonshiner Junior Johnson. Watkins lets us in on details about Ralph's health and the heart attack that caused his untimely death in 1973. She explains how seeing the shop door closed behind the house was crushing. After Ralph's passing, Dale Earnhardt used his iron-clad work ethic to create opportunities to race. He was a self-made racer that eventually made it to the pinnacle of the sport. That success on track came at the cost of his family life. Two failed marriages and drama created an inconsistent childhood for Dale Jr. and Kelley. The three Earnhardts talk about the complications of family dynamic. They share memories of the fight between Dale's mom Brenda and Dale's wife Teresa and more. Cathy's racing life didn't end after her ten race wins. She developed a relationship with one of Dale's crew members, Mike Watkins. She shares how they kept the relationship hidden from Dale Earnhardt for a while. The sneaking around led to a long-time marriage and a shared life on the road working souvenir haulers at NASCAR tracks and on the road for the Earnhardt family. Working at the track, Cathy developed a true passion for conversing with race fans. Oh, except that one time they said ugly things about her brother. That's a story you have to hear!   OPEN SEGMENT Before Aunt Cathy came into the studio, Dale Jr..and sister Kelley chatted about about: The NASCAR Xfinity Series dust-up on track between JR Motorsports driver Sam Mayer and Joe Gibbs Racing driver Ty Gibbs. They detail the fight that followed on pit road. Dale's enjoyment back behind the wheel at Martinsville. What's going on with the Cup cars on short tracks?   ASKJR Presented by Xfinity Hannah Newhouse hits Dale Jr. with fan questions talking about: JR Motorsports Late Model boys racing with Layne Riggs at Greenville Pickens Having Isla and Nicole at the track watching daddy race. Noah's White Claw, getting to like beer and developing Sun Drop and Vodka drinks. Should Ty Gibbs have taken off his helmet to fight? Five tracks Dale Jr. would want to race on more than once a year. Including a cryptic North Wilkesboro mention. Hmm. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

There's nothing like the bond of family. This week Dale Earnhardt Jr. welcomes in his sister Kelley Earnhardt Miller to sit down with their Aunt, Cathy Watkins, for a peek behind the curtain of the Earnhardt story.From V8 and Sedan street in Kannapolis, NC a motorsports legacy was born. The King of the dirt tracks, Ralph Earnhardt, was tearing up the circuit feeding his family with race wins and working on racecars. Of course, in 1952 came the birth of his son Dale Earnhardt, regarded as one of the best stock car racers of all-time. But before there was a Dale, there was a Cathy. Aunt Cathy wanted to be one of the boys. She loved washing parts in Ralph's backyard racing shop. But soon came womanhood and she was removed from the male-dominated garage. That was a tough pill to swallow. Ya see, Cathy was born into a true passion for racing. A few years later, Cathy was able to show her racing worth in what was then known as "Powder-Puff" races. The all-female races were an added bonus to a local short track racing program. But to an Earnhardt, it was a chance to win. In a span of decade, Cathy went ten-for-ten in Powder Puff events to become the only undefeated Earnhardt.Cathy gives a personal look into what it was like to grow up in the Earnhardt house in Kannapolis. She details the unrelenting strictness of Ralph Earnhardt and what was expected of them as children. She also reveals that Ralph Earnhardt did more than just work on his own cars, he worked on liquor cars for legendary racer and moonshiner Junior Johnson. Watkins lets us in on details about Ralph's health and the heart attack that caused his untimely death in 1973. She explains how seeing the shop door closed behind the house was crushing.After Ralph's passing, Dale Earnhardt used his iron-clad work ethic to create opportunities to race. He was a self-made racer that eventually made it to the pinnacle of the sport. That success on track came at the cost of his family life. Two failed marriages and drama created an inconsistent childhood for Dale Jr. and Kelley. The three Earnhardts talk about the complications of family dynamic. They share memories of the fight between Dale's mom Brenda and Dale's wife Teresa and more.Cathy's racing life didn't end after her ten race wins. She developed a relationship with one of Dale's crew members, Mike Watkins. She shares how they kept the relationship hidden from Dale Earnhardt for a while. The sneaking around led to a long-time marriage and a shared life on the road working souvenir haulers at NASCAR tracks and on the road for the Earnhardt family. Working at the track, Cathy developed a true passion for conversing with race fans. Oh, except that one time they said ugly things about her brother. That's a story you have to hear! OPEN SEGMENTBefore Aunt Cathy came into the studio, Dale Jr..and sister Kelley chatted about about: The NASCAR Xfinity Series dust-up on track between JR Motorsports driver Sam Mayer and Joe Gibbs Racing driver Ty Gibbs. They detail the fight that followed on pit road. Dale's enjoyment back behind the wheel at Martinsville. What's going on with the Cup cars on short tracks?  ASKJR Presented by XfinityHannah Newhouse hits Dale Jr. with fan questions talking about: JR Motorsports Late Model boys racing with Layne Riggs at Greenville Pickens Having Isla and Nicole at the track watching daddy race. Noah's White Claw, getting to like beer and developing Sun Drop and Vodka drinks. Should Ty Gibbs have taken off his helmet to fight? Five tracks Dale Jr. would want to race on more than once a year. Including a cryptic North Wilkesboro mention. Hmm. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Being paralyzed from a horrific racing crash has not stopped the drive of Robert Wickens. The paraplegic racer shares his inspirational story with Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis. His story is also unorthodox. How did he get into racing? The exposure came from television, NASCAR and a bootleg, sex-free version of Days of Thunder. Dale Jr. and Robert connect on the mutual bond of matchbox cars, which they both, as children, used to emulate the races they watched. The two racers laugh sharing memories of innovating their makeshift tracks. The passion grew and a decision to abandon stick-and-ball sports led Wickens to go-kart racing. From there, his career took off. He moved to the states and then to Europe chasing his dream. While in Europe he navigated the pathway up the motorsports ladder in various series of competition. It was a journey that took him from open-wheeled racecars to German touring cars with Mercedes. While in the Mercedes program, his path even crossed with Formula 1 great Michael Schumacher, who served as an advisor to the team. Wickens earned his FIA Super license and was a reserve driver for a Formula 1 team. He was under contract with an F1 organization but the opportunity was severed by a driver with a bigger checkbook. Wickens’ return to North America came with an opportunity to race in the NTT Indycar Series fulltime with Schmidt Peterson Motorsports. The rookie came out of the gate with authority capturing the pole at the ending of the qualifying session at the season opener at the St. Petersburg course in Florida. Wickens then led the majority of the race before controversial contact with two laps to go between he and his good friend Alexander Rossi. The incident took him out contention for the win. His Indycar progression was going well. Then August 19, 2018. Wickens lined up 6th for the 500-mile race at the tricky Pocono Raceway in Pennsylvania. The seventh lap would change Robert Wickens life forever. While battling Ryan Hunter-Reay, a crash sent his car into the catchfence violently at a speed of 210 mph. Wickens tries to recall the scattered memories he has of the day, that live in bits and pieces in his mind. The accident resulted in badly fractured legs, arms, hands, ribs, neck, a pulmonary contusion and thoracic spinal fracture. Robert Wickens survived the crash but was now faced with being a paraplegic. Wickens reveals what he knows about the time he spent in an induced coma and the struggle to just survive.. He then opens up about the pain he endured from his injuries, both physically and mentally, and the ripple effect its had on so many people in his life. His journey since the crash has been damn-near miraculous. Driven by a thirst for independence and a desire to return to racing, Robert Wickens fought through various levels of rehabilitation to get to his ultimate goal. That goal? Strapping in behind the wheel of a racecar. At first, E-Sports and iRacing were his proving grounds. Now, the next chapter has begun as Wickens is competing in IMSA's Pilot Series for Hyundai in a racecar with hand-controls. It's a journey that has inspired so many, including everyone in the room.   OPEN SEGMENT Before Wickens' arrival, Dale Earnhardt Jr. reveals what it was like to be a part of the nomination panel, for the first time, at the NASCAR Hall of Fame. The DJD then debates who they would select from that list to make it into the next class of the HOF. Who should be in the Hall and why?   ASKJR Presented By Xfinity Hannah Newhouse picks the best fan questions from Twitter and the Dirty Mo Media live chat. We discuss: April fools and dirty pranks Danica Patrick catching the bouquet at Dale and Amy's wedding. The advantage of tape on the grille of your racecar after Kyle Busch's penalty. How the Next Gen car will do on dirt. How iRacing will get its hands dirty in the console game scene. Who built the table? To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Being paralyzed from a horrific racing crash has not stopped the drive of Robert Wickens. The paraplegic racer shares his inspirational story with Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis.His story is also unorthodox. How did he get into racing? The exposure came from television, NASCAR and a bootleg, sex-free version of Days of Thunder. Dale Jr. and Robert connect on the mutual bond of matchbox cars, which they both, as children, used to emulate the races they watched. The two racers laugh sharing memories of innovating their makeshift tracks. The passion grew and a decision to abandon stick-and-ball sports led Wickens to go-kart racing. From there, his career took off. He moved to the states and then to Europe chasing his dream.While in Europe he navigated the pathway up the motorsports ladder in various series of competition. It was a journey that took him from open-wheeled racecars to German touring cars with Mercedes. While in the Mercedes program, his path even crossed with Formula 1 great Michael Schumacher, who served as an advisor to the team. Wickens earned his FIA Super license and was a reserve driver for a Formula 1 team. He was under contract with an F1 organization but the opportunity was severed by a driver with a bigger checkbook.Wickens’ return to North America came with an opportunity to race in the NTT Indycar Series fulltime with Schmidt Peterson Motorsports. The rookie came out of the gate with authority capturing the pole at the ending of the qualifying session at the season opener at the St. Petersburg course in Florida. Wickens then led the majority of the race before controversial contact with two laps to go between he and his good friend Alexander Rossi. The incident took him out contention for the win.His Indycar progression was going well. Then August 19, 2018. Wickens lined up 6th for the 500-mile race at the tricky Pocono Raceway in Pennsylvania. The seventh lap would change Robert Wickens life forever. While battling Ryan Hunter-Reay, a crash sent his car into the catchfence violently at a speed of 210 mph. Wickens tries to recall the scattered memories he has of the day, that live in bits and pieces in his mind.The accident resulted in badly fractured legs, arms, hands, ribs, neck, a pulmonary contusion and thoracic spinal fracture. Robert Wickens survived the crash but was now faced with being a paraplegic. Wickens reveals what he knows about the time he spent in an induced coma and the struggle to just survive.. He then opens up about the pain he endured from his injuries, both physically and mentally, and the ripple effect its had on so many people in his life.His journey since the crash has been damn-near miraculous. Driven by a thirst for independence and a desire to return to racing, Robert Wickens fought through various levels of rehabilitation to get to his ultimate goal. That goal? Strapping in behind the wheel of a racecar. At first, E-Sports and iRacing were his proving grounds. Now, the next chapter has begun as Wickens is competing in IMSA's Pilot Series for Hyundai in a racecar with hand-controls.It's a journey that has inspired so many, including everyone in the room. OPEN SEGMENTBefore Wickens' arrival, Dale Earnhardt Jr. reveals what it was like to be a part of the nomination panel, for the first time, at the NASCAR Hall of Fame. The DJD then debates who they would select from that list to make it into the next class of the HOF. Who should be in the Hall and why? ASKJR Presented By Xfinity Hannah Newhouse picks the best fan questions from Twitter and the Dirty Mo Media live chat. We discuss: April fools and dirty pranks Danica Patrick catching the bouquet at Dale and Amy's wedding. The advantage of tape on the grille of your racecar after Kyle Busch's penalty. How the Next Gen car will do on dirt. How iRacing will get its hands dirty in the console game scene. Who built the table? To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It is rare to hear two racecar drivers, stripped of the machismo attitude that comes from being a fierce competitor, talk about their most vulnerable moments. Former NASCAR driver and television analyst Ricky Craven sits down with Dale Earnhardt Jr. and Mike Davis for one of the most honest conversations between racers you will ever hear. From broken relationships, near tragic crashes, concussions to depression, it's a conversation that sheds light on parts of racing that are not often discussed. Craven cut his teeth on the Short Tracks of New England, following in his father's footsteps as a racer. The introduction to auto racing, as we learn, is one of the only lessons his father offered the young Maine racer. From Chargers. ACT Tour Late Models to the highly competitive Busch North Series, Craven's stock was rising. When opportunity came knocking, Craven jumped on it. His move south, into NASCAR's upper ranks, didn't come without challenges and valuable lessons. Some of those lessons, came from an unexpected source, the legendary Dale Earnhardt Sr. Craven's ascension into the elite NASCAR Cup Series came with some early success. In 1996, he was sixth in the standings when the green flag dropped at the massive Talladega Superspeedway. But it was a red flag at lap 129, caused by a savage crash that saw Craven airborne into the catchfence and flying over five cars, that started his struggles mentally and physically. Craven broke his back in the wreck, but came back to the seat right away. A year later, Craven landed his dream job piloting the Budweiser No. 25 Cup car for one of the best teams in the sport, Hendrick Motorsports. That dream, quickly became a nightmare, as a series of bad accidents led to a serious head injury when Craven crashed during practice at Texas Motor Speedway. Helicoptered to a hospital, the severity of his injuries kept him from the cherished seat he had earned. Eventually, Ricky returned. He fought through the symptoms that lingered after the crash. About a year later, Craven had to take himself out of the racecar, after being diagnosed with Post-Concussion Syndrome. He opens up about how he was feeling and what he was going through at the time. As if a challenging upbringing, a wildly competitive sport, and concussion issues weren't enough, Craven was also dealing with depression. It wasn't until later in life, that the charismatic New Englander figured out, with the help of friend Dale Jr. and his doctor Mickey Collins, what his "true north" was. Craven shares the experiences battling depression and how he finds the inner-peace to make it through. Dale Jr. and Ricky share the commonality of going through serious head trauma. They share their viewpoints on a sport where it was once taboo to admit you are hurt and how it affected their careers and lives. It's a polarizing discussion that you don't want to miss. OPEN SEGMENT During our Open Segment Dale Jr. and Mike talk about the controversial finish at the Circuit of the America's (COTA) and what people should expect out of the young and aggressive Ross Chastain in the future. Dale Jr. also expresses his distain for "Track Limits" in NASCAR. They discuss Denny Hamlin's tweet an the public response to on-track incidents. Dale Jr. explains Reaction vs Reputation. ASKJR Presented by Xfinity Hannah Newhouse hits Dale Jr. with some interesting questions from our fans and we learn a lot from the answers. Dale Jr. gives us his plan for prepping for his line NASCAR Xfinity Series race of 2022. What does Dale Jr. and Mike Davis think of Will Smith's slap heard around the world? Was it for real? Dale wants a fireball. The candy! Le Mans or No Lemans? Dale also weighs in on Hendrick Motorsports’ participation How the upper ranks of the sport can help Short Track Racing Thoughts on the Foo Fighters after the tragic passing of Taylor Hawkins To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It is rare to hear two racecar drivers, stripped of the machismo attitude that comes from being a fierce competitor, talk about their most vulnerable moments. Former NASCAR driver and television analyst Ricky Craven sits down with Dale Earnhardt Jr. and Mike Davis for one of the most honest conversations between racers you will ever hear. From broken relationships, near tragic crashes, concussions to depression, it's a conversation that sheds light on parts of racing that are not often discussed.Craven cut his teeth on the Short Tracks of New England, following in his father's footsteps as a racer. The introduction to auto racing, as we learn, is one of the only lessons his father offered the young Maine racer. From Chargers. ACT Tour Late Models to the highly competitive Busch North Series, Craven's stock was rising. When opportunity came knocking, Craven jumped on it. His move south, into NASCAR's upper ranks, didn't come without challenges and valuable lessons. Some of those lessons, came from an unexpected source, the legendary Dale Earnhardt Sr.Craven's ascension into the elite NASCAR Cup Series came with some early success. In 1996, he was sixth in the standings when the green flag dropped at the massive Talladega Superspeedway. But it was a red flag at lap 129, caused by a savage crash that saw Craven airborne into the catchfence and flying over five cars, that started his struggles mentally and physically. Craven broke his back in the wreck, but came back to the seat right away.A year later, Craven landed his dream job piloting the Budweiser No. 25 Cup car for one of the best teams in the sport, Hendrick Motorsports. That dream, quickly became a nightmare, as a series of bad accidents led to a serious head injury when Craven crashed during practice at Texas Motor Speedway. Helicoptered to a hospital, the severity of his injuries kept him from the cherished seat he had earned. Eventually, Ricky returned. He fought through the symptoms that lingered after the crash. About a year later, Craven had to take himself out of the racecar, after being diagnosed with Post-Concussion Syndrome. He opens up about how he was feeling and what he was going through at the time.As if a challenging upbringing, a wildly competitive sport, and concussion issues weren't enough, Craven was also dealing with depression. It wasn't until later in life, that the charismatic New Englander figured out, with the help of friend Dale Jr. and his doctor Mickey Collins, what his "true north" was. Craven shares the experiences battling depression and how he finds the inner-peace to make it through.Dale Jr. and Ricky share the commonality of going through serious head trauma. They share their viewpoints on a sport where it was once taboo to admit you are hurt and how it affected their careers and lives.It's a polarizing discussion that you don't want to miss.OPEN SEGMENT During our Open Segment Dale Jr. and Mike talk about the controversial finish at the Circuit of the America's (COTA) and what people should expect out of the young and aggressive Ross Chastain in the future. Dale Jr. also expresses his distain for "Track Limits" in NASCAR. They discuss Denny Hamlin's tweet an the public response to on-track incidents. Dale Jr. explains Reaction vs Reputation. ASKJR Presented by XfinityHannah Newhouse hits Dale Jr. with some interesting questions from our fans and we learn a lot from the answers. Dale Jr. gives us his plan for prepping for his line NASCAR Xfinity Series race of 2022. What does Dale Jr. and Mike Davis think of Will Smith's slap heard around the world? Was it for real? Dale wants a fireball. The candy! Le Mans or No Lemans? Dale also weighs in on Hendrick Motorsports’ participation How the upper ranks of the sport can help Short Track Racing Thoughts on the Foo Fighters after the tragic passing of Taylor Hawkins To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

For some NASCAR fans, the names Earnhardt and Bodine are like oil and water. Today, the much-anticipated interview as Geoff Bodine, one of Dale Earnhardt's biggest rivals, sits down with Dale Earnhardt Jr. and Mike Davis on The Download. The legendary NASCAR driver began his storied career in an all-female "powder puff" race and wore a wig to do so. From there, Bodine started his young career on the short tracks of the Northeast driving NASCAR Modifieds. In 1978, Bodine won an astonishing 55 out of 84 sanctioned races, a feat still in the Guinness Book of World Records. Bodine's winning ways in NASCAR's open wheel ranks led to opportunities down south in NASCAR's Late Model Sportsman series, now called the Xfinity Series, and eventually a ride in the elite Cup Series. The 1982 Cup Rookie of the Year details his early days and how he got a shot with a Charlotte car-salesman who was starting a NASCAR team. That car owner was Rick Hendrick. Hendrick paired the Yankee racer with a very southern crew chief, Harry Hyde. The effort fizzled quickly and Hendrick told the team they were out of money and shutting the doors. They were done. But Hyde convinced Hendrick to give them one more chance. Bodine talks about the Martinsville win that spring boarded his success and saved Hendrick Motorsports. With Bodine running at the front, run-ins were imminent. There were no greater run-ins than the ones he had with the Intimidator, Dale Earnhardt. The two rivals locked horns on several occasions, leading to a legendary meeting between the drivers, team owners and NASCAR's Bill France. Bodine explains what really went down in a scene famously depicted in the motion picture "Days of Thunder," Dale Jr. admits, how the rivalry created riffs between friends and families. No talk with Geoff could be complete without asking the difficult question about the 1994 Brickyard 400 at Indianapolis Motor Speedway and the incident between he and his brother Brett Bodine. The drama played out on a very public stage and shocked many in the racing world. But behind closed doors, all involved knew why it happened. It's something Geoff has a difficult time talking about to this day. Bodine is also known for surviving one of the most horrific crashes of all time, in the inaugural 250-mile NASCAR Truck Series race at Daytona International Speedway. Most who witnessed the wreck, thought there was no way he could have survived, but amazingly he did. Bodine details the crash and how he spoke with his father, who was deceased, during the near death experience. The incident effected Bodine's career and most importantly his life. He struggled physically with vision and pain, and emotionally with problems that he brings to the discussion at the table. Geoff shares his testimony in a vivid, open and honest way and how it led him to a faith, he believes, ultimately saved his life.. A faith that defines the legendary driver more than his 1986 Daytona 500 win. Aside from his racing efforts, Bodine also shares how he spearheaded an effort to get the United States Bobsled program Olympic Gold. We also learn about the NASCAR Country Music record he helped make happen and how he feels about potentially being in the NASCAR Hall of Fame discussion. OPEN SEGMENT Before Geoff Bodine came to the table Mike and Dale discuss: Dale details his trip to Houston, Texas for his wife Amy's birthday and how they attempted, again, to meet country music superstar George Strait. Mike has a big announcement for fans of Dirty Mo Media ASKJR Hannah Newhouse is in studio to deliver some fan questions inspired by unique observations that impressed Dale and co. Potential additions to the iRacing platform How Amy pulled him from living life in "a big funnel" An International Lost Speedway that peaks Dale Jr.'s interest Why Dale switched steering wheel sizes during his tenure at Hendrick Motorsports Favorite thing to order from Bojangles To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

For some NASCAR fans, the names Earnhardt and Bodine are like oil and water. Today, the much-anticipated interview as Geoff Bodine, one of Dale Earnhardt's biggest rivals, sits down with Dale Earnhardt Jr. and Mike Davis on The Download.The legendary NASCAR driver began his storied career in an all-female "powder puff" race and wore a wig to do so. From there, Bodine started his young career on the short tracks of the Northeast driving NASCAR Modifieds. In 1978, Bodine won an astonishing 55 out of 84 sanctioned races, a feat still in the Guinness Book of World Records. Bodine's winning ways in NASCAR's open wheel ranks led to opportunities down south in NASCAR's Late Model Sportsman series, now called the Xfinity Series, and eventually a ride in the elite Cup Series.The 1982 Cup Rookie of the Year details his early days and how he got a shot with a Charlotte car-salesman who was starting a NASCAR team. That car owner was Rick Hendrick. Hendrick paired the Yankee racer with a very southern crew chief, Harry Hyde. The effort fizzled quickly and Hendrick told the team they were out of money and shutting the doors. They were done. But Hyde convinced Hendrick to give them one more chance. Bodine talks about the Martinsville win that spring boarded his success and saved Hendrick Motorsports.With Bodine running at the front, run-ins were imminent. There were no greater run-ins than the ones he had with the Intimidator, Dale Earnhardt. The two rivals locked horns on several occasions, leading to a legendary meeting between the drivers, team owners and NASCAR's Bill France. Bodine explains what really went down in a scene famously depicted in the motion picture "Days of Thunder," Dale Jr. admits, how the rivalry created riffs between friends and families.No talk with Geoff could be complete without asking the difficult question about the 1994 Brickyard 400 at Indianapolis Motor Speedway and the incident between he and his brother Brett Bodine. The drama played out on a very public stage and shocked many in the racing world. But behind closed doors, all involved knew why it happened. It's something Geoff has a difficult time talking about to this day.Bodine is also known for surviving one of the most horrific crashes of all time, in the inaugural 250-mile NASCAR Truck Series race at Daytona International Speedway. Most who witnessed the wreck, thought there was no way he could have survived, but amazingly he did. Bodine details the crash and how he spoke with his father, who was deceased, during the near death experience. The incident effected Bodine's career and most importantly his life. He struggled physically with vision and pain, and emotionally with problems that he brings to the discussion at the table. Geoff shares his testimony in a vivid, open and honest way and how it led him to a faith, he believes, ultimately saved his life.. A faith that defines the legendary driver more than his 1986 Daytona 500 win.Aside from his racing efforts, Bodine also shares how he spearheaded an effort to get the United States Bobsled program Olympic Gold. We also learn about the NASCAR Country Music record he helped make happen and how he feels about potentially being in the NASCAR Hall of Fame discussion.OPEN SEGMENTBefore Geoff Bodine came to the table Mike and Dale discuss: Dale details his trip to Houston, Texas for his wife Amy's birthday and how they attempted, again, to meet country music superstar George Strait. Mike has a big announcement for fans of Dirty Mo Media ASKJRHannah Newhouse is in studio to deliver some fan questions inspired by unique observations that impressed Dale and co. Potential additions to the iRacing platform How Amy pulled him from living life in "a big funnel" An International Lost Speedway that peaks Dale Jr.'s interest Why Dale switched steering wheel sizes during his tenure at Hendrick Motorsports Favorite thing to order from Bojangles To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

He's only 23-years old, but Austin Cindric is already a Daytona 500 Champion and an accomplished racecar driver. Today, he sits at the big table with Dale Earnhardt Jr. and Mike Davis so the world can learn more about the young-man beyond the flashbulbs and trophies. At first glance, his life seems like an arranged marriage. The son of Tim Cindric, the president of Team Penske, driving in NASCAR"s top series in the famed Penske No. 2 car. There are some that feel Cindric had a path forged in gold before his feet. What most don't realize is that his parents didn't even want him to race a car. Most also don't realize how hard the Mooresville, N.C., driver has worked to make the most out of every opportunity he has gotten. Oh, and about those opportunities... he's made the most of them. From sportscar racing, Global Rallycross to NASCAR and in between, Cindric hasn't been average. In his rookie of the year attempt in NASCAR's Truck Series he put the bumper to a competitor at Canadian Tire Motorsports Park to get into the series' playoffs. Austin admits to Dale and Mike that it was a move that drew a lot of criticism and he shares how he learned from the experience Next was his big shot in the NASCAR Xfinity Series. The opportunity was something he admits he wasn't exactly ready for. The first year came with its challenges, hopping between three different rides. One of which, through their struggles, taught him another valuable lesson in his young racing career. Getting the nod to fill the seat of the Team Penske No. 22 ride was no surprise, based off of his pathway into NASCAR and his family dynamic. He took the opportunity and ran with it. Soon, Cindric developed himself from a road course threat to a winning racecar. In 2020 he won the finale at Phoenix and stuck his flag into the ground as a Champion in NASCAR's Xfinity Series. The next season, the winning ways continued, but a championship did not. With the knowledge he was already moving up to the Cup Series in 2022, Austin wanted to go out on top. A last lap move by Daniel Hemric stole that from him. In post race interviews, he handled it with the poise of a racer well-beyond his years. Dale and Mike discuss the approach with Austin. There's much more to Cindric than meets the eye. First off, his size. He's a tall racecar driver which is uncommon. He also plays the tuba. Yes, the tuba. Everyone talks about his racing lineage on his father's side, but did you know his mother's side has roots in Sprint Car racing and are winners of the Indianapolis 500? Open Segment Before Cindric entered the studio, Dale and Mike decided to grab JR Motorsports Xfinity driver Justin Allgaier and pull him into the Bojangles Studio for a quick chat. The driver of the Brandt #7 Chevrolet in the Xfinity Series recently tested his car and a Chevy wheel-force car at the newly reconfigured Atlanta Motor Speedway. As we go into this race with so many unknowns, Allgaier shares details on his first hand experience at speed and going backwards at the tricky Georgia speedplant. Dale Jr. also shares an unusual story about how he once had a beer with George Strait in Key West. AskJr Hannah Newhouse brings a bunch of great questions from the fans on social media and DIrty Mo Media's live Youtube Stream. Topics covered: DJD's new TV home on Peacock. DEI's number choices. Dale Jr's Super Late Model regret Carson Kvapil's 30k pay-day Time for a racecar speedometer? and a conversation that somehow includes Bryan Adams, Aerosmith and Trevor Bayne. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

He's only 23-years old, but Austin Cindric is already a Daytona 500 Champion and an accomplished racecar driver. Today, he sits at the big table with Dale Earnhardt Jr. and Mike Davis so the world can learn more about the young-man beyond the flashbulbs and trophies.At first glance, his life seems like an arranged marriage. The son of Tim Cindric, the president of Team Penske, driving in NASCAR"s top series in the famed Penske No. 2 car. There are some that feel Cindric had a path forged in gold before his feet. What most don't realize is that his parents didn't even want him to race a car. Most also don't realize how hard the Mooresville, N.C., driver has worked to make the most out of every opportunity he has gotten. Oh, and about those opportunities... he's made the most of them.From sportscar racing, Global Rallycross to NASCAR and in between, Cindric hasn't been average. In his rookie of the year attempt in NASCAR's Truck Series he put the bumper to a competitor at Canadian Tire Motorsports Park to get into the series' playoffs. Austin admits to Dale and Mike that it was a move that drew a lot of criticism and he shares how he learned from the experienceNext was his big shot in the NASCAR Xfinity Series. The opportunity was something he admits he wasn't exactly ready for. The first year came with its challenges, hopping between three different rides. One of which, through their struggles, taught him another valuable lesson in his young racing career. Getting the nod to fill the seat of the Team Penske No. 22 ride was no surprise, based off of his pathway into NASCAR and his family dynamic. He took the opportunity and ran with it. Soon, Cindric developed himself from a road course threat to a winning racecar. In 2020 he won the finale at Phoenix and stuck his flag into the ground as a Champion in NASCAR's Xfinity Series.The next season, the winning ways continued, but a championship did not. With the knowledge he was already moving up to the Cup Series in 2022, Austin wanted to go out on top. A last lap move by Daniel Hemric stole that from him. In post race interviews, he handled it with the poise of a racer well-beyond his years. Dale and Mike discuss the approach with Austin.There's much more to Cindric than meets the eye. First off, his size. He's a tall racecar driver which is uncommon. He also plays the tuba. Yes, the tuba. Everyone talks about his racing lineage on his father's side, but did you know his mother's side has roots in Sprint Car racing and are winners of the Indianapolis 500?Open SegmentBefore Cindric entered the studio, Dale and Mike decided to grab JR Motorsports Xfinity driver Justin Allgaier and pull him into the Bojangles Studio for a quick chat. The driver of the Brandt #7 Chevrolet in the Xfinity Series recently tested his car and a Chevy wheel-force car at the newly reconfigured Atlanta Motor Speedway. As we go into this race with so many unknowns, Allgaier shares details on his first hand experience at speed and going backwards at the tricky Georgia speedplant.Dale Jr. also shares an unusual story about how he once had a beer with George Strait in Key West.AskJrHannah Newhouse brings a bunch of great questions from the fans on social media and DIrty Mo Media's live Youtube Stream. Topics covered: DJD's new TV home on Peacock. DEI's number choices. Dale Jr's Super Late Model regret Carson Kvapil's 30k pay-day Time for a racecar speedometer? and a conversation that somehow includes Bryan Adams, Aerosmith and Trevor Bayne. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This is an alternate version of our "DEI Days: The Rise" episode. It is a mix of the episode that doesn't include the music scores during the interviews. We hope you enjoy! About the Episode The meteoric rise of a Motorsports empire. Dirty Mo Media and The Dale Jr. Download present a special look behind the curtain of Dale Earnhardt Inc, as told by drivers and key members of the team. This episode focuses on the growth of Dale Earnhardt's racing team from a part-time effort in the NASCAR Xfinity Series to a winning three-car team in NASCAR's elite Cup Series. Drivers Ron Hornaday Jr., Steve Park and Michael Waltrip share their experiences in getting to know the Intimidator and how he pulled them under his wing and into DEI. One of the key members of Earnhardt's team, was Ty Norris. Norris wore several hats at DEI, but we learn his most important was being one of Dale Earnhardt's top "lieutenants." Norris shares how Dale Earnhardt took him from a public relations position to helping him operate his beloved race team. Steve Park was plucked from the open-wheeled Modified ranks of the northeast to be the driver to build the program around. After some time seasoning, Park was Earnhardt's choice to race in the Cup level. This paved the way for Dale Earnhardt Jr. We learn that his first opportunity came on a suggestion from his uncle, the late Danny Earnhardt Sr. Dale Jr. proved he was a winner and joined Park. The trinity was completed with the arrival of Michael Waltrip who was tabbed to pilot the NAPA Auto Parts ride. The formation of a third Cup team didn't come without sacrifices. Ron Hornaday Jr. describes how he was let go, in an unorthodox meeting with Dale Earnhardt. The vision for DEI was clear: get the best drivers, build the best cars, and do it all from within. 2001 was to be the start of a new era. Unfortunately, with the death of Dale Earnhardt in the season opening Daytona 500, the new era took on an even more significant meaning. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This is an alternate version of our "DEI Days: The Rise" episode. It is a mix of the episode that doesn't include the music scores during the interviews. We hope you enjoy!About the EpisodeThe meteoric rise of a Motorsports empire. Dirty Mo Media and The Dale Jr. Download present a special look behind the curtain of Dale Earnhardt Inc, as told by drivers and key members of the team. This episode focuses on the growth of Dale Earnhardt's racing team from a part-time effort in the NASCAR Xfinity Series to a winning three-car team in NASCAR's elite Cup Series. Drivers Ron Hornaday Jr., Steve Park and Michael Waltrip share their experiences in getting to know the Intimidator and how he pulled them under his wing and into DEI.One of the key members of Earnhardt's team, was Ty Norris. Norris wore several hats at DEI, but we learn his most important was being one of Dale Earnhardt's top "lieutenants." Norris shares how Dale Earnhardt took him from a public relations position to helping him operate his beloved race team.Steve Park was plucked from the open-wheeled Modified ranks of the northeast to be the driver to build the program around. After some time seasoning, Park was Earnhardt's choice to race in the Cup level. This paved the way for Dale Earnhardt Jr. We learn that his first opportunity came on a suggestion from his uncle, the late Danny Earnhardt Sr. Dale Jr. proved he was a winner and joined Park. The trinity was completed with the arrival of Michael Waltrip who was tabbed to pilot the NAPA Auto Parts ride.The formation of a third Cup team didn't come without sacrifices. Ron Hornaday Jr. describes how he was let go, in an unorthodox meeting with Dale Earnhardt.The vision for DEI was clear: get the best drivers, build the best cars, and do it all from within. 2001 was to be the start of a new era. Unfortunately, with the death of Dale Earnhardt in the season opening Daytona 500, the new era took on an even more significant meaning. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The meteoric rise of a Motorsports empire. Dirty Mo Media and The Dale Jr. Download present a special look behind the curtain of Dale Earnhardt Inc, as told by drivers and key members of the team. This episode focuses on the growth of Dale Earnhardt's racing team from a part-time effort in the NASCAR Xfinity Series to a winning three-car team in NASCAR's elite Cup Series. Drivers Ron Hornaday Jr., Steve Park and Michael Waltrip share their experiences in getting to know the Intimidator and how he pulled them under his wing and into DEI. One of the key members of Earnhardt's team, was Ty Norris. Norris wore several hats at DEI, but we learn his most important was being one of Dale Earnhardt's top "lieutenants." Norris shares how Dale Earnhardt took him from a public relations position to helping him operate his beloved race team. Steve Park was plucked from the open-wheeled Modified ranks of the northeast to be the driver to build the program around. After some time seasoning, Park was Earnhardt's choice to race in the Cup level. This paved the way for Dale Earnhardt Jr. We learn that his first opportunity came on a suggestion from his uncle, the late Danny Earnhardt Sr. Dale Jr. proved he was a winner and joined Park. The trinity was completed with the arrival of Michael Waltrip who was tabbed to pilot the NAPA Auto Parts ride. The formation of a third Cup team didn't come without sacrifices. Ron Hornaday Jr. describes how he was let go, in an unorthodox meeting with Dale Earnhardt. The vision for DEI was clear: get the best drivers, build the best cars, and do it all from within. 2001 was to be the start of a new era. Unfortunately, with the death of Dale Earnhardt in the season opening Daytona 500, the new era took on an even more significant meaning. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The meteoric rise of a Motorsports empire. Dirty Mo Media and The Dale Jr. Download present a special look behind the curtain of Dale Earnhardt Inc, as told by drivers and key members of the team. This episode focuses on the growth of Dale Earnhardt's racing team from a part-time effort in the NASCAR Xfinity Series to a winning three-car team in NASCAR's elite Cup Series. Drivers Ron Hornaday Jr., Steve Park and Michael Waltrip share their experiences in getting to know the Intimidator and how he pulled them under his wing and into DEI.One of the key members of Earnhardt's team, was Ty Norris. Norris wore several hats at DEI, but we learn his most important was being one of Dale Earnhardt's top "lieutenants." Norris shares how Dale Earnhardt took him from a public relations position to helping him operate his beloved race team.Steve Park was plucked from the open-wheeled Modified ranks of the northeast to be the driver to build the program around. After some time seasoning, Park was Earnhardt's choice to race in the Cup level. This paved the way for Dale Earnhardt Jr. We learn that his first opportunity came on a suggestion from his uncle, the late Danny Earnhardt Sr. Dale Jr. proved he was a winner and joined Park. The trinity was completed with the arrival of Michael Waltrip who was tabbed to pilot the NAPA Auto Parts ride.The formation of a third Cup team didn't come without sacrifices. Ron Hornaday Jr. describes how he was let go, in an unorthodox meeting with Dale Earnhardt.The vision for DEI was clear: get the best drivers, build the best cars, and do it all from within. 2001 was to be the start of a new era. Unfortunately, with the death of Dale Earnhardt in the season opening Daytona 500, the new era took on an even more significant meaning. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

A pair of Champions, two-time Indianapolis 500 winner Al Unser Jr. and two-time Daytona 500 champ Dale Earnhardt Jr. come to the table to talk about Unser's spectacular life, career and a fall from grace that few could even imagine. Unser Jr.'s resume reads as a fairy-tale, but behind the scenes, his real life was anything but. Most saw the feel-good story of "Little Al," son of a four-time Indy 500 champion, blossoming to become his own success in the Indycar ranks. Seemingly overnight, he was a winner and then a Champion. Hidden in the shadows of the celebrations was the dark side of the driver. Cocaine, marijuana, alcohol abuse, prostitution, and a chain of arrests all took his life to the lowest of lows. How low? In 2012, alone in his apartment, Al Unser Jr. was on the verge of suicide. Unser's career, like the family before him, was defined by the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. The Unser's have won the world's most famous race nine-times. It took a tangle with Emerson Fittipaldi in the 1989 running of the 500 to put the pressure to win at the Brickyard on Al Jr. In 1992, on his tenth try, in a near photo finish, the young Unser crossed the yard of brick a victor. He details the dramatic last lap with Dale Jr. and co-host Mike Davis and describes the emotion that overcame him. Despite being an IROC Champion, Al only made one career NACAR Cup Series Start, in the 1993 Daytona 500. He tells Dale Jr how a phone call may have led to crashing (wink, wink) their primary car in order to roll out a faster Hendrick Motorsports #46. Growing up Unser wasn't easy. From a demanding Uncle to a Champion father, there was a lot to live up to. Al Jr. reveals how his parents divorce at a young age set the stage for an up-and-down upbringing that included racing, crime and mischief. Despite the challenges, Al Jr. just wanted to race. He admits that "racing was his escape." Despite a long fight with substance abuse, Al sits at the table a new man. Is he forgiven by all? Has he forgiven himself? These days, the 59 year old finds his redemption in his walk with faith. Unser Jr. shares how it has given him new life. Before Al Unser Jr. arrived, Dale and Mike went over a wild NASCAR weekend in Fontana. They discussed everything from flat tires, weird tow-trucks to the run-in between Hendrick teammates Kyle Larson and Chase Elliott. Speaking of teammate tension, Dale calls in Josh Berry to the studio to talk about his California clash with JR Motorsports teammate Justin Allgaier. Dale, Mike and producer Matthew Dillner welcomed a new member of the DJD team, Hannah Newhouse. She brings a plethora of fan questions in Ask Jr. We learn some insight into the potential Fontana reconfiguration. Of course Dale Jr. wants more Short Tracks and rallies for it, but is he sour to the idea of a Chicago Street Course race? Did you know Dale wants to be involved in the music scene? DJ Dale explains. All of that and much more on a packed episode. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

A pair of Champions, two-time Indianapolis 500 winner Al Unser Jr. and two-time Daytona 500 champ Dale Earnhardt Jr. come to the table to talk about Unser's spectacular life, career and a fall from grace that few could even imagine. Unser Jr.'s resume reads as a fairy-tale, but behind the scenes, his real life was anything but. Most saw the feel-good story of "Little Al," son of a four-time Indy 500 champion, blossoming to become his own success in the Indycar ranks. Seemingly overnight, he was a winner and then a Champion. Hidden in the shadows of the celebrations was the dark side of the driver. Cocaine, marijuana, alcohol abuse, prostitution, and a chain of arrests all took his life to the lowest of lows. How low? In 2012, alone in his apartment, Al Unser Jr. was on the verge of suicide.Unser's career, like the family before him, was defined by the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. The Unser's have won the world's most famous race nine-times. It took a tangle with Emerson Fittipaldi in the 1989 running of the 500 to put the pressure to win at the Brickyard on Al Jr. In 1992, on his tenth try, in a near photo finish, the young Unser crossed the yard of brick a victor. He details the dramatic last lap with Dale Jr. and co-host Mike Davis and describes the emotion that overcame him.Despite being an IROC Champion, Al only made one career NACAR Cup Series Start, in the 1993 Daytona 500. He tells Dale Jr how a phone call may have led to crashing (wink, wink) their primary car in order to roll out a faster Hendrick Motorsports #46.Growing up Unser wasn't easy. From a demanding Uncle to a Champion father, there was a lot to live up to. Al Jr. reveals how his parents divorce at a young age set the stage for an up-and-down upbringing that included racing, crime and mischief. Despite the challenges, Al Jr. just wanted to race. He admits that "racing was his escape."Despite a long fight with substance abuse, Al sits at the table a new man. Is he forgiven by all? Has he forgiven himself? These days, the 59 year old finds his redemption in his walk with faith. Unser Jr. shares how it has given him new life.Before Al Unser Jr. arrived, Dale and Mike went over a wild NASCAR weekend in Fontana. They discussed everything from flat tires, weird tow-trucks to the run-in between Hendrick teammates Kyle Larson and Chase Elliott. Speaking of teammate tension, Dale calls in Josh Berry to the studio to talk about his California clash with JR Motorsports teammate Justin Allgaier.Dale, Mike and producer Matthew Dillner welcomed a new member of the DJD team, Hannah Newhouse. She brings a plethora of fan questions in Ask Jr. We learn some insight into the potential Fontana reconfiguration. Of course Dale Jr. wants more Short Tracks and rallies for it, but is he sour to the idea of a Chicago Street Course race? Did you know Dale wants to be involved in the music scene? DJ Dale explains. All of that and much more on a packed episode. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

He's a racing champion, but until 2021, few knew of 24-year-old racing phenom Ernie Francis, Jr. This piqued the curiosity of Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis who welcome him to the table to learn about a racer that industry insiders can't talk enough about. Francis broke through with a big win in Tony Stewart and Ray Evernham's SRX Series (Superstar Racing Experience) at Indianapolis Raceway Park last summer. The win came against some of the best racers in motorsports and sent shockwaves across much of the sport. Who was this kid? Well, first off he's a seven-time Champion on the Trans-Am circuit. His recent success brought a call from motorsports legend Roger Penske, who tabbed him to be one of his up-and-coming stars. Francis details the call that changed his life and unexpectedly shifted his career path from stock cars to open-wheel racecars where he'll compete full-time for Force Indy in the 2022 Indy Lights Series. The goal? Building experience and a team capable of stepping up in a few years to compete in the Indianapolis 500. Francis' first opportunities in racing came with a lot less fanfare. As a child, he hung around and worked at his father's speed shop on the coast of Southern Florida. The family connection to speed took him from go-karts to his first racecar at the age of 13. From there, he honed his skills racing Mazda Miatas until the big decision to enter the Trans-Am Series. There, young Ernie blossomed, racing a beast of a racecar against some of the best road racers in America. He dipped his toes into the Stock Car oval-track world racing Late Models and K&N East races in NASCAR's diversity program too. But, it was the shot in SRX that put kid-Francis on the map. Where else would he race in 2022? Francis spilled the beans about his future with SRX. Before the show started, Dale and Mike chat about their recent trip to Daytona to watch racecars and promote vodka. From the High Rock party at the historic Streamline Hotel, to the ups and downs of the NASCAR Xfinity race, it was a trip full of surprises. None more surprising than the fun times had by family inside the racetrack. Dale reveals Amy and Isla's newfound love of the infield track experience. They also dive into the Great American race, its massive crowd, and the big-bad tangles that "Bad" Brad Keselowski was a part of. Sadly, it's Leah Vaughn's last show, which has all in DJD-land sad, but she brings it one last time for a wildly entertaining AskJr segment. From racecars losing wheels, to drive-shafts going through Dale Earnhardt's windshield, it's full of great moments. We also learn about the level of interest from Dale about space travel and, of all things, Chinchillas. Or was it a rabbit? To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

He's a racing champion, but until 2021, few knew of 24-year-old racing phenom Ernie Francis, Jr. This piqued the curiosity of Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis who welcome him to the table to learn about a racer that industry insiders can't talk enough about.Francis broke through with a big win in Tony Stewart and Ray Evernham's SRX Series (Superstar Racing Experience) at Indianapolis Raceway Park last summer. The win came against some of the best racers in motorsports and sent shockwaves across much of the sport. Who was this kid? Well, first off he's a seven-time Champion on the Trans-Am circuit. His recent success brought a call from motorsports legend Roger Penske, who tabbed him to be one of his up-and-coming stars. Francis details the call that changed his life and unexpectedly shifted his career path from stock cars to open-wheel racecars where he'll compete full-time for Force Indy in the 2022 Indy Lights Series. The goal? Building experience and a team capable of stepping up in a few years to compete in the Indianapolis 500.Francis' first opportunities in racing came with a lot less fanfare. As a child, he hung around and worked at his father's speed shop on the coast of Southern Florida. The family connection to speed took him from go-karts to his first racecar at the age of 13. From there, he honed his skills racing Mazda Miatas until the big decision to enter the Trans-Am Series. There, young Ernie blossomed, racing a beast of a racecar against some of the best road racers in America. He dipped his toes into the Stock Car oval-track world racing Late Models and K&N East races in NASCAR's diversity program too. But, it was the shot in SRX that put kid-Francis on the map.Where else would he race in 2022? Francis spilled the beans about his future with SRX.Before the show started, Dale and Mike chat about their recent trip to Daytona to watch racecars and promote vodka. From the High Rock party at the historic Streamline Hotel, to the ups and downs of the NASCAR Xfinity race, it was a trip full of surprises. None more surprising than the fun times had by family inside the racetrack. Dale reveals Amy and Isla's newfound love of the infield track experience. They also dive into the Great American race, its massive crowd, and the big-bad tangles that "Bad" Brad Keselowski was a part of.Sadly, it's Leah Vaughn's last show, which has all in DJD-land sad, but she brings it one last time for a wildly entertaining AskJr segment. From racecars losing wheels, to drive-shafts going through Dale Earnhardt's windshield, it's full of great moments. We also learn about the level of interest from Dale about space travel and, of all things, Chinchillas. Or was it a rabbit? To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

When Boris Said sat down at the "Table of Truth" with Dale Earnhardt Jr and co-host Mike Davis, he thought it would be a discussion of his racing career. Little did he know that it would be a deep look into a fascinating life story from living on food stamps to racing championships and everything in between. A big pivot point came right away in Boris' childhood when his father, an accomplished racer himself, left him and his mother to fend for themselves. With little supervision and getting mixed up in the wrong crowd, young Boris found adventure in a life of crime. From stealing cars and robbing houses, Boris did a lot of things he isn't proud of. It was an admission nobody at the table expected from the likeable racer and left the room shocked. Doing it the wrong way stopped when he got caught, which led to a fork in the road. The fork he chose? Auto Racing. Boris took a carefree approach to an industry he knew nothing of and joined that with a fearless ferocity behind the wheel. But let's not be fooled, the Connecticut kid with an afro did lean on his past life of crime, and use a few dirty tricks to jumpstart his racing career. Within a year, this no-name driver was competing for wins and then championships in the Sports Car racing world. Said was on a path that would lead him to become a winner on stages worldwide at places like Germany's Nürburgring and the 24-Hours of Daytona. He was a Trans-Am Series Champion in 2004. But, a large part of his popularity in the states, came from his opportunities driving in the NASCAR Series. Big Boris talks about how he got the call to fill in for Jimmy Spencer and how the team had no idea how green the driver was heading into his first time on track at New York's Watkins Glen Speedway. He details an opportunity that followed to test for the Wood Brothers and how that opened doors for him in the Stock Car world. The first big door to open was from one of racing's biggest stars, Dale Earnhardt. The Intimidator wanted Boris to teach his son, Dale Jr., how to get around a road course faster. And that he did. Said and Dale Jr. share details about their first meeting and how their friendship and respect grew. Oh, and y'all know we love a good Dale Earnhardt story! Boris has some of the best, including the day Dale Earnhardt fetched him a peanut butter sandwich. And if that isn't enough, Said will go down in history as one of the few drivers to ever hop behind the wheel of the famed #3 at the personal request of Dale Sr. It's a moment that had him grinning from ear to ear. Said also shares another bond with Dale Jr. They were teammates for Corvette Racing when Dale Jr suffered burns in a fiery crash at Sonoma Speedway in 2004. Said details his recollection of the crash and takes us into the Infield Care Center with Dale Jr as he dealt with the trauma of his burns. Don't worry fans... Dale Jr. heard you and asked Boris about his famous dust-up with Greg Biffle at Watkins Glen. I mean, we had to right? From that to testing a Cup car all day in jeans and a t-shirt, the stories are amazing. Before Boris came into the room Dale Jr and Mike break down Dale's Los Angeles trip doing pre-game coverage with Rutledge Wood for NBC's broadcast of Super Bowl LVI. Jr. got snapped at by a dinosaur while interviewing Jeff Goldblum, hung out at a skate park, and compared business endeavors with G.O.A.T's like Jerry Rice and Troy Aikman. Damn, it was a good day. And when he got home, he worked on a homemade surprise for his family he details at the table. Leah Vaughn gets in a bunch of questions in this week's AskJr including Dale's favorite Olympic event to why he flies the flag for painted side-skirts on racecars but doesn't have them on the cars he owns at Jr. Motorsports. That and much more. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

When Boris Said sat down at the "Table of Truth" with Dale Earnhardt Jr and co-host Mike Davis, he thought it would be a discussion of his racing career. Little did he know that it would be a deep look into a fascinating life story from living on food stamps to racing championships and everything in between.A big pivot point came right away in Boris' childhood when his father, an accomplished racer himself, left him and his mother to fend for themselves. With little supervision and getting mixed up in the wrong crowd, young Boris found adventure in a life of crime. From stealing cars and robbing houses, Boris did a lot of things he isn't proud of. It was an admission nobody at the table expected from the likeable racer and left the room shocked. Doing it the wrong way stopped when he got caught, which led to a fork in the road. The fork he chose? Auto Racing.Boris took a carefree approach to an industry he knew nothing of and joined that with a fearless ferocity behind the wheel. But let's not be fooled, the Connecticut kid with an afro did lean on his past life of crime, and use a few dirty tricks to jumpstart his racing career. Within a year, this no-name driver was competing for wins and then championships in the Sports Car racing world. Said was on a path that would lead him to become a winner on stages worldwide at places like Germany's Nürburgring and the 24-Hours of Daytona. He was a Trans-Am Series Champion in 2004. But, a large part of his popularity in the states, came from his opportunities driving in the NASCAR Series.Big Boris talks about how he got the call to fill in for Jimmy Spencer and how the team had no idea how green the driver was heading into his first time on track at New York's Watkins Glen Speedway. He details an opportunity that followed to test for the Wood Brothers and how that opened doors for him in the Stock Car world. The first big door to open was from one of racing's biggest stars, Dale Earnhardt. The Intimidator wanted Boris to teach his son, Dale Jr., how to get around a road course faster. And that he did. Said and Dale Jr. share details about their first meeting and how their friendship and respect grew.Oh, and y'all know we love a good Dale Earnhardt story! Boris has some of the best, including the day Dale Earnhardt fetched him a peanut butter sandwich. And if that isn't enough, Said will go down in history as one of the few drivers to ever hop behind the wheel of the famed #3 at the personal request of Dale Sr. It's a moment that had him grinning from ear to ear.Said also shares another bond with Dale Jr. They were teammates for Corvette Racing when Dale Jr suffered burns in a fiery crash at Sonoma Speedway in 2004. Said details his recollection of the crash and takes us into the Infield Care Center with Dale Jr as he dealt with the trauma of his burns.Don't worry fans... Dale Jr. heard you and asked Boris about his famous dust-up with Greg Biffle at Watkins Glen. I mean, we had to right? From that to testing a Cup car all day in jeans and a t-shirt, the stories are amazing.Before Boris came into the room Dale Jr and Mike break down Dale's Los Angeles trip doing pre-game coverage with Rutledge Wood for NBC's broadcast of Super Bowl LVI. Jr. got snapped at by a dinosaur while interviewing Jeff Goldblum, hung out at a skate park, and compared business endeavors with G.O.A.T's like Jerry Rice and Troy Aikman. Damn, it was a good day. And when he got home, he worked on a homemade surprise for his family he details at the table.Leah Vaughn gets in a bunch of questions in this week's AskJr including Dale's favorite Olympic event to why he flies the flag for painted side-skirts on racecars but doesn't have them on the cars he owns at Jr. Motorsports. That and much more. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Separated by generations, but forged in honor, Dale Earnhardt Jr. and the legendary Red Farmer now share a bond that will last a lifetime, as two of the most recent inductees into the NASCAR Hall of Fame. A racer for over 75 years, Red has competed at tracks from makeshift tracks on abandoned runways in Miami, a cardboard bordered track in Key West, the beaches of Daytona to the famed Superspeedways of America. The storyteller unlocks the secrets of a career that started In 1948 and is still going strong today. Yes, at nearly 90-years old, the old master still steers a racecar around the red clay high banks of the Talladega Short Track in Alabama. From Short Track to 2-mile speedways, asphalt to dirt, Red has raced about everything. Even speedboats! I bet you didn’t know Red Farmer once raced at a Yacht club, did ya? Red is the leader of a legendary group known as the Alabama Gang, which terrorized local short tracks across America stealing trophies and collecting riches to feed their families. And a family it was. The bond shared by three short-track racers, Red, fellow NASCAR Hall of Famer Bobby Allison, and Donnie Allison is something truly special. The “table of truth” brings out stories of heroism and heartbreak. Red details his time serving in the Army, which interrupted his points leading NASCAR season. Many race wins and championships later, both Farmer and the Allison family experienced moments of grief and unthinkable tragedy. Red recounts his perspective of Davey Allison’s tragic helicopter crash, and doesn’t hold back his emotion revisiting Clifford Allison’s deadly accident at Michigan. Choked up, he shares his inner thoughts about the band of brothers that helped define each other's lives and careers. There are stories about wrecks… a lot of them. Dale Jr. and Farmer take to the monitor to recap a few of Red’s famous crashes in real-time. Some he escaped, and others left him hospitalized for months. Regardless of the severity, Red always returned to racing.  There are also stories of pranks and fights, including a never-before-told tale of Allison brother's fisticuffs at a Miami bullring. Red shares some of his most valuable life lessons that led to his remarkable life as a champion on and off the track. It’s a peek behind the curtain into the life of a 752-time race winner that few have ever heard. Before Red’s interview, the DJD opens up about the Clash at the Coliseum. Earnhardt and Davis share their thoughts on the polarizing Exhibition race at the L.A. Coliseum in California. They also talk about Dale and wife Amy’s latest business venture, High Rock Vodka. A drink Mike successfully taste-tested at the Hall of Fame party. Speaking of the NASCAR Hall of Fame, Dale Jr. shares some of his thoughts on one of the greatest honors of his career. Ask Jr. provides his in-depth analysis on the new NASCAR Next Gen car and its debut at the Clash, and colored side skirts!  To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Separated by generations, but forged in honor, Dale Earnhardt Jr. and the legendary Red Farmer now share a bond that will last a lifetime, as two of the most recent inductees into the NASCAR Hall of Fame.A racer for over 75 years, Red has competed at tracks from makeshift tracks on abandoned runways in Miami, a cardboard bordered track in Key West, the beaches of Daytona to the famed Superspeedways of America. The storyteller unlocks the secrets of a career that started In 1948 and is still going strong today. Yes, at nearly 90-years old, the old master still steers a racecar around the red clay high banks of the Talladega Short Track in Alabama. From Short Track to 2-mile speedways, asphalt to dirt, Red has raced about everything. Even speedboats! I bet you didn’t know Red Farmer once raced at a Yacht club, did ya?Red is the leader of a legendary group known as the Alabama Gang, which terrorized local short tracks across America stealing trophies and collecting riches to feed their families. And a family it was. The bond shared by three short-track racers, Red, fellow NASCAR Hall of Famer Bobby Allison, and Donnie Allison is something truly special.The “table of truth” brings out stories of heroism and heartbreak. Red details his time serving in the Army, which interrupted his points leading NASCAR season. Many race wins and championships later, both Farmer and the Allison family experienced moments of grief and unthinkable tragedy. Red recounts his perspective of Davey Allison’s tragic helicopter crash, and doesn’t hold back his emotion revisiting Clifford Allison’s deadly accident at Michigan. Choked up, he shares his inner thoughts about the band of brothers that helped define each other's lives and careers.There are stories about wrecks… a lot of them. Dale Jr. and Farmer take to the monitor to recap a few of Red’s famous crashes in real-time. Some he escaped, and others left him hospitalized for months. Regardless of the severity, Red always returned to racing.  There are also stories of pranks and fights, including a never-before-told tale of Allison brother's fisticuffs at a Miami bullring.Red shares some of his most valuable life lessons that led to his remarkable life as a champion on and off the track. It’s a peek behind the curtain into the life of a 752-time race winner that few have ever heard.Before Red’s interview, the DJD opens up about the Clash at the Coliseum. Earnhardt and Davis share their thoughts on the polarizing Exhibition race at the L.A. Coliseum in California. They also talk about Dale and wife Amy’s latest business venture, High Rock Vodka. A drink Mike successfully taste-tested at the Hall of Fame party. Speaking of the NASCAR Hall of Fame, Dale Jr. shares some of his thoughts on one of the greatest honors of his career.Ask Jr. provides his in-depth analysis on the new NASCAR Next Gen car and its debut at the Clash, and colored side skirts!  To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The show many thought would never happen. After years of harboring unspoken animosity, Dale Earnhardt Jr. sits down with NASCAR Champion Kevin Harvick to bury the hatchet on some things from their past. Harvick made comments during a 2017 satellite radio program about Dale Earnhardt Jr,'s lack of success "stunting the growth of the sport." With Dale Jr. being in the midst of his retirement season, the comments came unexpected and cut deep for many. The two drivers sit face to face to talk about what led to controversial criticism and clear the air by listening to all sides of the story. In 2014 Harvick drove for JR Motorsports, leading the team to a total of six wins in a two-year span. He made his mark in places other than performance, bringing some personnel, key partners, and a relentless desire for success. While JR Motorsports enjoyed the fruits of the relationship, Harvick felt otherwise. After he was separated from his crew chief and team, the relationship went south. It's something that has never been discussed either. Until now. Dale Jr., co-host Mike Davis, and Harvick tell all about what went down at JRM. Harvick's path to becoming a NASCAR Champion started on the streets of Bakersfield, California. His rapid ascension through West Coast Short Tracks led to some tough decisions and a severed relationship with his father. His on-track success led to an opportunity with the West Coast's only full-time NASCAR Truck Series team, Spears Racing. The relationship developed from towing a racecar with a shag-carpet Winnebago to a full-time chance in the big leagues of racing. When opportunity came knocking with legendary car owner Richard Childress there were a few more hurdles. A newly signed letter of intent with another team meant, Harvick had to gamble on himself, buying his way out of the contract and living off his girlfriend's credit card to make it. His first race in Childress' NASCAR Xfinity Series car went well. The second race? Well, the California hot-shoe shockingly didn't qualify. This led to a disappearance few have ever heard about, that had Harvick on a milk container. Once back on the scene, his confidence grew and so did his success, winning two Xfinity Series titles. Kevin lays out the game plan to Cup that few knew about. A plan that had him beginning a Cup effort in 2001. But on February 18, 2001 those plans changed. The untimely death of the legendary Dale Earnhardt Sr. at Daytona International Speedway created a void in Childress' race team that Harvick stepped in to fill. A win at Atlanta put Harvick's career into a stratosphere he never imagined. He admits it was a role he didn't necessarily want. Harvick opens up to Dale Jr, about how tough and awkward the 2001 season was. Before Dale Jr. and Kevin Harvick's relationship hit a stall in 2017, they had a good history together on and off the track. Did you know Kevin and his wife DeLana's first date was in Dale Jr.'s basement? It was a very memorable first date. While at "the table of truth" Kevin and Dale Jr. discuss a myriad of topics. The discussion begins with the heated discussions and rivalry Kevin had during the 2021 playoffs with Chase Elliott. Kevin reveals that he thinks there is a conversation that still needs to be had with the young Georgia driver. Then they talk about the NASCAR Next Gen car and the hurdles ahead for the new racecar and its upcoming debut in the 2022 season. Kevin isn't the only Harvick racing. Keelan is racing over 60-times this season. Harvick reveals his plans to put his son in a Late Model Stock Car. After Kevin's interview, Dale Jr. answers some incredible questions in one of the most entertaining and insightful AskJr's of the season. We learn about what Dale thinks of the new qualifying procedures, the news about Nashville Fairgrounds Speedway, and what he would think of a NASCAR / F1 double-header. We also learn that he has an itch to learn to play a popular stringed instrument. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The show many thought would never happen. After years of harboring unspoken animosity, Dale Earnhardt Jr. sits down with NASCAR Champion Kevin Harvick to bury the hatchet on some things from their past. Harvick made comments during a 2017 satellite radio program about Dale Earnhardt Jr,'s lack of success "stunting the growth of the sport." With Dale Jr. being in the midst of his retirement season, the comments came unexpected and cut deep for many. The two drivers sit face to face to talk about what led to controversial criticism and clear the air by listening to all sides of the story.In 2014 Harvick drove for JR Motorsports, leading the team to a total of six wins in a two-year span. He made his mark in places other than performance, bringing some personnel, key partners, and a relentless desire for success. While JR Motorsports enjoyed the fruits of the relationship, Harvick felt otherwise. After he was separated from his crew chief and team, the relationship went south. It's something that has never been discussed either. Until now. Dale Jr., co-host Mike Davis, and Harvick tell all about what went down at JRM.Harvick's path to becoming a NASCAR Champion started on the streets of Bakersfield, California. His rapid ascension through West Coast Short Tracks led to some tough decisions and a severed relationship with his father. His on-track success led to an opportunity with the West Coast's only full-time NASCAR Truck Series team, Spears Racing. The relationship developed from towing a racecar with a shag-carpet Winnebago to a full-time chance in the big leagues of racing.When opportunity came knocking with legendary car owner Richard Childress there were a few more hurdles. A newly signed letter of intent with another team meant, Harvick had to gamble on himself, buying his way out of the contract and living off his girlfriend's credit card to make it. His first race in Childress' NASCAR Xfinity Series car went well. The second race? Well, the California hot-shoe shockingly didn't qualify. This led to a disappearance few have ever heard about, that had Harvick on a milk container. Once back on the scene, his confidence grew and so did his success, winning two Xfinity Series titles.Kevin lays out the game plan to Cup that few knew about. A plan that had him beginning a Cup effort in 2001. But on February 18, 2001 those plans changed. The untimely death of the legendary Dale Earnhardt Sr. at Daytona International Speedway created a void in Childress' race team that Harvick stepped in to fill. A win at Atlanta put Harvick's career into a stratosphere he never imagined. He admits it was a role he didn't necessarily want. Harvick opens up to Dale Jr, about how tough and awkward the 2001 season was.Before Dale Jr. and Kevin Harvick's relationship hit a stall in 2017, they had a good history together on and off the track. Did you know Kevin and his wife DeLana's first date was in Dale Jr.'s basement? It was a very memorable first date.While at "the table of truth" Kevin and Dale Jr. discuss a myriad of topics. The discussion begins with the heated discussions and rivalry Kevin had during the 2021 playoffs with Chase Elliott. Kevin reveals that he thinks there is a conversation that still needs to be had with the young Georgia driver. Then they talk about the NASCAR Next Gen car and the hurdles ahead for the new racecar and its upcoming debut in the 2022 season. Kevin isn't the only Harvick racing. Keelan is racing over 60-times this season. Harvick reveals his plans to put his son in a Late Model Stock Car.After Kevin's interview, Dale Jr. answers some incredible questions in one of the most entertaining and insightful AskJr's of the season. We learn about what Dale thinks of the new qualifying procedures, the news about Nashville Fairgrounds Speedway, and what he would think of a NASCAR / F1 double-header. We also learn that he has an itch to learn to play a popular stringed instrument. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. and Mike Davis sit down with NASCAR driver Austin Dillon and Dr. Eric Warren, Director of NASCAR Programs for Chevrolet, for a candid discussion about the NASCAR Next Gen car that is set to launch in 2022. This new racecar marks the beginning of a new era in NASCAR. With the new chassis comes a pile of questions, uncertainty, fear, and doubt. Earnhardt and Davis waste no time addressing the big topics of concern about the newly designed chassis. Warren, who spearheaded much of Chevrolet's involvement in the development of the Next Gen car, brings us inside the decisions and the intricate details from development to production of this state-of-the-art machine. Dillon, well, he's been behind the wheel of the Next Gen in test sessions. He brings a unique perspective from the driver's seat of the new-age stock car. Speaking of stock... this thing sure looks stock! Chevrolet and Richard Childress Racing brought one of the sleek Next Gen cars to the Studio so the gang could see it first hand. Warren and Earnhardt discuss the importance of the design and the street look of this Camaro racer. The testing of the Next Gen car hasn't been 100-percent smooth. A crash by William Byron early in testing helped the design team learn about the behavior of the new design. What happened during the wreck and how did the car react to the heavy impact? Is the racecar too rigid? Warren addresses the rumor mill surrounding the Talladega crash test and talks about the changes in development that are designed to lessen the impact on the driver. Dale Jr. tested the NASCAR Next Gen car at North Carolina's Bowman Gray Stadium. He shares his experience with Dillon and the two bring their thoughts from the cockpit to the table. Is the steering lock an issue? What is it like to drive with a sequential shifter? What about the limited split differential? And are their legitimate concerns of extreme cockpit temperatures, that at one test session reached a sweltering 170 degrees, an issue that is being resolved? Dillon also gives Dale Jr. first-hand accounts of how the Next Gen car will perform in the draft at the Superspeedways. No questions were left off the table, including a curious inquiry by Dale Jr about a possible Hybrid future in NASCAR competition. Before our guests arrived, the DJD gang breaks down the finale at Phoenix. Was Daniel Hemric's walk-off title-winning first career win possibly his last? How powerful was the emotion of Kyle Larson's victory lap? We also learn that Dale Jr has an affinity for things from the '80s. Well Duh? He details his stay in a popular Phoenix-area hotel and the rockin' sunset that made him feel so warm and fuzzy. In AskJr presented by Xfinity, Dale Jr. discusses Speedway Motorsports Incorporated's purchase of Dover Motorsports Inc and what it could mean for Dover and Nashville. We also talk about Carolina Panthers' player Jeremy Chinn's Dale Jr. tribute, Dale's role in the movie Cars, and what he really thinks about the NASCAR playoff format. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. and Mike Davis sit down with NASCAR driver Austin Dillon and Dr. Eric Warren, Director of NASCAR Programs for Chevrolet, for a candid discussion about the NASCAR Next Gen car that is set to launch in 2022.This new racecar marks the beginning of a new era in NASCAR. With the new chassis comes a pile of questions, uncertainty, fear, and doubt. Earnhardt and Davis waste no time addressing the big topics of concern about the newly designed chassis. Warren, who spearheaded much of Chevrolet's involvement in the development of the Next Gen car, brings us inside the decisions and the intricate details from development to production of this state-of-the-art machine. Dillon, well, he's been behind the wheel of the Next Gen in test sessions. He brings a unique perspective from the driver's seat of the new-age stock car.Speaking of stock... this thing sure looks stock! Chevrolet and Richard Childress Racing brought one of the sleek Next Gen cars to the Studio so the gang could see it first hand. Warren and Earnhardt discuss the importance of the design and the street look of this Camaro racer.The testing of the Next Gen car hasn't been 100-percent smooth. A crash by William Byron early in testing helped the design team learn about the behavior of the new design. What happened during the wreck and how did the car react to the heavy impact? Is the racecar too rigid? Warren addresses the rumor mill surrounding the Talladega crash test and talks about the changes in development that are designed to lessen the impact on the driver.Dale Jr. tested the NASCAR Next Gen car at North Carolina's Bowman Gray Stadium. He shares his experience with Dillon and the two bring their thoughts from the cockpit to the table. Is the steering lock an issue? What is it like to drive with a sequential shifter? What about the limited split differential? And are their legitimate concerns of extreme cockpit temperatures, that at one test session reached a sweltering 170 degrees, an issue that is being resolved? Dillon also gives Dale Jr. first-hand accounts of how the Next Gen car will perform in the draft at the Superspeedways.No questions were left off the table, including a curious inquiry by Dale Jr about a possible Hybrid future in NASCAR competition.Before our guests arrived, the DJD gang breaks down the finale at Phoenix. Was Daniel Hemric's walk-off title-winning first career win possibly his last? How powerful was the emotion of Kyle Larson's victory lap? We also learn that Dale Jr has an affinity for things from the '80s. Well Duh? He details his stay in a popular Phoenix-area hotel and the rockin' sunset that made him feel so warm and fuzzy.In AskJr presented by Xfinity, Dale Jr. discusses Speedway Motorsports Incorporated's purchase of Dover Motorsports Inc and what it could mean for Dover and Nashville. We also talk about Carolina Panthers' player Jeremy Chinn's Dale Jr. tribute, Dale's role in the movie Cars, and what he really thinks about the NASCAR playoff format. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Coming soon: The boldest, most transparent podcast series ever produced by Dirty Mo Media. A preview to The Burton Continuum. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Coming soon: The boldest, most transparent podcast series ever produced by Dirty Mo Media. A preview to The Burton Continuum. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

When you have the opportunity to speak with a living scrapbook of the past, you open it and have a conversation. Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis welcome in Tommy Russell, an early car owner of the late Dale Earnhardt, to give first-hand accounts inside the early years of the Earnhardt racing legacy. Russell's family was involved in the early stock car scene in the Carolina's with area stars like Dink Widenhouse, George Mantooth and Banks Simpson that took their cars from the dusty dirt ovals of the Carolina's all the way to the sands of Daytona. But it was an intersection with Dale Jr.'s grandfather, the great Ralph Earnhardt, that set in motion a relationship with the two families forged in speed and trust. Tommy gives a curious Dale Jr. insight into what it was like on Sedan Avenue working around the patriarch of the Earnhardt racing dynasty. The King of the Dirt Tracks helped the young Russell. Later on, he was able to repay his hero. The story though doesn't end with Ralph. Russell became one of Dale Earnhardt's first car owners. The two friends combined their efforts and started racing Semi-Mods at places like Concord Speedway and Metrolina Speedway. When the Earnhardt name showed up on the roof of Russell's cars, it was lights out for the other competitors. In a short span, the two combined to unleash their fury on the dirt scene in an effort that brought an estimated 65 wins. Russell gives us all a peek into the early days of his race team and witnessing Dale Earnhardt's first-ever win. It is a moment that made him realize Dale was the driver he wanted behind the wheel of his cars. He talks about the progression of an eventual seven-time NASCAR champion. It was a journey from a homebuilt shop on the side of the Russell garage, to racing multiple times a week. They'd sleep at hotels with the door open and the hauler pulled up to the door, guarding their homemade racecar with a gun on the nightstand. It's a peek into the early days of Dale Earnhardt that nobody has heard before. Dale persevered, despite the tragic loss of Ralph Earnhardt in 1973. Russell gives us a look into the tough time and how they picked up the pieces and carried on. When Dale made it to the big time, he never forgot his friend Tommy. He was with him for his very first NASCAR Cup Series start. The local boy Earnhardt had a lot of pressure on him to make the field that day. He got by with a little help from his friends... and we learn, a special bottle of speed. Fast forward to 1980, and the final race of the season at Ontario Motor Speedway, Dale brought his friend along with him to the track, to the parties, and even to Las Vegas. Before Tommy Russell came to the Bojangles Studio to chat, the DJD was on fire about a lot of topics. Dale Jr. kept his thoughts about his recent test of the NASCAR Next Gen car at North Carolina's Bowman Gray Stadium to himself, wanting to save his thoughts for this podcast. He shares the experience and his concerns for the new Cup machine moving forward. He also spikes on Clint Bowyer's claim of being the fastest driver at the test. Dale and Mike also chat about Noah Gragson's big win at Martinsville and how he has impressively ridden a roller coaster of a season to have a shot at a NASCAR Xfinity Series title. Speaking of JR Motorsports, Dale talks about the decision to bring a new Late Model Stock driver to the team and what he expects from young Carson Kvapil and the program. The biggest NASCAR water cooler topic of the week was the controversy between Denny Hamlin and Martinsville race winner Alex Bowman. The DJD fires in their opinions during AskJr presented by Xfinity. They discuss the post-race drama and a different type of "hack" in the fan-driven segment. That and much more on a packed edition of The Dale Jr. Download. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

When you have the opportunity to speak with a living scrapbook of the past, you open it and have a conversation. Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis welcome in Tommy Russell, an early car owner of the late Dale Earnhardt, to give first-hand accounts inside the early years of the Earnhardt racing legacy.Russell's family was involved in the early stock car scene in the Carolina's with area stars like Dink Widenhouse, George Mantooth and Banks Simpson that took their cars from the dusty dirt ovals of the Carolina's all the way to the sands of Daytona. But it was an intersection with Dale Jr.'s grandfather, the great Ralph Earnhardt, that set in motion a relationship with the two families forged in speed and trust. Tommy gives a curious Dale Jr. insight into what it was like on Sedan Avenue working around the patriarch of the Earnhardt racing dynasty. The King of the Dirt Tracks helped the young Russell. Later on, he was able to repay his hero. The story though doesn't end with Ralph. Russell became one of Dale Earnhardt's first car owners. The two friends combined their efforts and started racing Semi-Mods at places like Concord Speedway and Metrolina Speedway. When the Earnhardt name showed up on the roof of Russell's cars, it was lights out for the other competitors. In a short span, the two combined to unleash their fury on the dirt scene in an effort that brought an estimated 65 wins.Russell gives us all a peek into the early days of his race team and witnessing Dale Earnhardt's first-ever win. It is a moment that made him realize Dale was the driver he wanted behind the wheel of his cars. He talks about the progression of an eventual seven-time NASCAR champion. It was a journey from a homebuilt shop on the side of the Russell garage, to racing multiple times a week. They'd sleep at hotels with the door open and the hauler pulled up to the door, guarding their homemade racecar with a gun on the nightstand. It's a peek into the early days of Dale Earnhardt that nobody has heard before. Dale persevered, despite the tragic loss of Ralph Earnhardt in 1973. Russell gives us a look into the tough time and how they picked up the pieces and carried on.When Dale made it to the big time, he never forgot his friend Tommy. He was with him for his very first NASCAR Cup Series start. The local boy Earnhardt had a lot of pressure on him to make the field that day. He got by with a little help from his friends... and we learn, a special bottle of speed. Fast forward to 1980, and the final race of the season at Ontario Motor Speedway, Dale brought his friend along with him to the track, to the parties, and even to Las Vegas.Before Tommy Russell came to the Bojangles Studio to chat, the DJD was on fire about a lot of topics. Dale Jr. kept his thoughts about his recent test of the NASCAR Next Gen car at North Carolina's Bowman Gray Stadium to himself, wanting to save his thoughts for this podcast. He shares the experience and his concerns for the new Cup machine moving forward. He also spikes on Clint Bowyer's claim of being the fastest driver at the test.Dale and Mike also chat about Noah Gragson's big win at Martinsville and how he has impressively ridden a roller coaster of a season to have a shot at a NASCAR Xfinity Series title. Speaking of JR Motorsports, Dale talks about the decision to bring a new Late Model Stock driver to the team and what he expects from young Carson Kvapil and the program.The biggest NASCAR water cooler topic of the week was the controversy between Denny Hamlin and Martinsville race winner Alex Bowman. The DJD fires in their opinions during AskJr presented by Xfinity. They discuss the post-race drama and a different type of "hack" in the fan-driven segment.That and much more on a packed edition of The Dale Jr. Download. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

She may not have been the first, and won't be the last, but she is undoubtedly a pioneer in Motorsports. Former NASCAR racer Shawna Robinson sits down with Dale Earnhardt Jr and co-host Mike Davis for a fascinating conversation. Robinson's start in Motorsports didn't come as most people would predict. It wasn't behind the wheel of a car. It was behind the wheel of a truck. And we're not talking your everyday truck, we're talking about a Big-Rig going up to 160mph. Fresh out of high school, the small-statured Iowa girl got her first chance in competitive racing in one of the largest race vehicles possible. Her father, a man they called Lefty, and her brothers, were a part of a traveling circus of Big Rig Racing and entertainment. It was a series her dad founded and the family promoted. Sliding an 8-thousand pound truck around fairgrounds tracks sprinkled throughout America, people took notice of the young female phenom excelling in a sport full of rough and rowdy men. When the Great American Truck Racing series hit the big tracks, people took notice of Robinson. She became the first female to ever win on a superspeedway, winning at the Milwaukee Mile. Success and an unwavering work ethic created a path to NASCAR. There, Robinson went from the biggest vehicle to racing the compact stock cars of the NASCAR Dash Series. Just three races in, she made history becoming the first woman to win a NASCAR Touring Series race. Her climb to the NASCAR Xfinity Series came with some success, but some heartache as well. She was the fast qualifier at the Xfinity race at Atlanta Motor Speedway in 1994. In that race, she didn't make it around to complete the first lap. She was wrecked. Was it intentional? Other drivers and a commentator told her it was. Shawna shares the story. The ups and downs of racing intersected life and the start of her own family during one phone call. It was her best opportunity yet, but one she had to turn down. She shares the emotion of turning down a ride due to pregnancy. A few years later, Shawna found herself trying to qualify for the 2002 Daytona 500. The Cup Series rookie became the first driver since Janet Guthrie, in 1977, to race her way into the Great American race. Shawna's racing career didn't pan out the way she wanted, but she's someone who will always be remembered. For Dale Earnhardt Jr., she will also be remembered as a woman who stood her ground. The table conversation gets interesting when the two drivers talk about an incident that stemmed from a practice get-together, continued into the race, included a middle-finger and an angry Robinson going to confront Earnhardt in his hauler. Shawna opens up to Dale Jr. and Mike Davis about some of the challenges she faced throughout her career being a female in a male-dominated sport. She also shares her thoughts on the females who have gripped the wheel after her career and what advantages they have in creating opportunities. But her biggest challenge came outside of the racecar. A cancer diagnosis and rigorous chemotherapy and radiation was just another hurdle for her to jump. Shawna discusses the day she found out the news and how she got through it. Before Shawna's arrival, the DJD gang talks about the big moment for Formula One driver Daniel Riccardo getting to drive his father's famed no. 3 car around Austin, Texas' Circuit of the Americas. Dale Jr. reveals just how much the gesture means to him and his family. Dale Jr. breaks some news on this week's podcast, announcing which NASCAR Xfinity Series race he will drive during the 2022 season. AskJr presented by Xfinity was "the funnest" segment of the day. Dale talks about his upcoming NASCAR Next-Gen test at the legendary 1/4-mile Bowman Gray Stadium. He also gives fans a peek behind closed doors of what it is really like inside the NASCAR hauler when you are called to the principal’s office. Dale shares some hellacious times during Halloween that were both risky and mischievous. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

She may not have been the first, and won't be the last, but she is undoubtedly a pioneer in Motorsports. Former NASCAR racer Shawna Robinson sits down with Dale Earnhardt Jr and co-host Mike Davis for a fascinating conversation.Robinson's start in Motorsports didn't come as most people would predict. It wasn't behind the wheel of a car. It was behind the wheel of a truck. And we're not talking your everyday truck, we're talking about a Big-Rig going up to 160mph. Fresh out of high school, the small-statured Iowa girl got her first chance in competitive racing in one of the largest race vehicles possible. Her father, a man they called Lefty, and her brothers, were a part of a traveling circus of Big Rig Racing and entertainment. It was a series her dad founded and the family promoted. Sliding an 8-thousand pound truck around fairgrounds tracks sprinkled throughout America, people took notice of the young female phenom excelling in a sport full of rough and rowdy men. When the Great American Truck Racing series hit the big tracks, people took notice of Robinson. She became the first female to ever win on a superspeedway, winning at the Milwaukee Mile.Success and an unwavering work ethic created a path to NASCAR. There, Robinson went from the biggest vehicle to racing the compact stock cars of the NASCAR Dash Series. Just three races in, she made history becoming the first woman to win a NASCAR Touring Series race. Her climb to the NASCAR Xfinity Series came with some success, but some heartache as well. She was the fast qualifier at the Xfinity race at Atlanta Motor Speedway in 1994. In that race, she didn't make it around to complete the first lap. She was wrecked. Was it intentional? Other drivers and a commentator told her it was. Shawna shares the story.The ups and downs of racing intersected life and the start of her own family during one phone call. It was her best opportunity yet, but one she had to turn down. She shares the emotion of turning down a ride due to pregnancy. A few years later, Shawna found herself trying to qualify for the 2002 Daytona 500. The Cup Series rookie became the first driver since Janet Guthrie, in 1977, to race her way into the Great American race.Shawna's racing career didn't pan out the way she wanted, but she's someone who will always be remembered. For Dale Earnhardt Jr., she will also be remembered as a woman who stood her ground. The table conversation gets interesting when the two drivers talk about an incident that stemmed from a practice get-together, continued into the race, included a middle-finger and an angry Robinson going to confront Earnhardt in his hauler.Shawna opens up to Dale Jr. and Mike Davis about some of the challenges she faced throughout her career being a female in a male-dominated sport. She also shares her thoughts on the females who have gripped the wheel after her career and what advantages they have in creating opportunities. But her biggest challenge came outside of the racecar. A cancer diagnosis and rigorous chemotherapy and radiation was just another hurdle for her to jump. Shawna discusses the day she found out the news and how she got through it.Before Shawna's arrival, the DJD gang talks about the big moment for Formula One driver Daniel Riccardo getting to drive his father's famed no. 3 car around Austin, Texas' Circuit of the Americas. Dale Jr. reveals just how much the gesture means to him and his family. Dale Jr. breaks some news on this week's podcast, announcing which NASCAR Xfinity Series race he will drive during the 2022 season.AskJr presented by Xfinity was "the funnest" segment of the day. Dale talks about his upcoming NASCAR Next-Gen test at the legendary 1/4-mile Bowman Gray Stadium. He also gives fans a peek behind closed doors of what it is really like inside the NASCAR hauler when you are called to the principal’s office. Dale shares some hellacious times during Halloween that were both risky and mischievous. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Grammy award-winning Country Music superstar Cole Swindell pulls up a chair at the big wooden table to have a chat with good friend Dale Earnhardt Jr. The two giants in their perspective industry have a special bond. They open up about the loss of their fathers and mothers and how they each found ways to cope with unthinkable loss. It's a conversation that brings us closer to how Cole, who lost his father in a freak accident as a child, and his mother to illness recently, was able to carry on. He didn't miss a beat, playing his popular song, "You Should Be Here" in front of packed audiences for an even deeper meaning. We learn how the particular song brought Dale Jr. and Cole together. Swindell didn't have a typical start for a country music artist. Yes, he was a songwriter, that moved to Nashville in hopes of achieving his dreams of being on the big stage. But his story really starts at a college dorm, where he met fellow Georgia Southern alum and country music artist Luke Bryan. The friendship grew into Cole going on the road with Bryan. But, not to perform... rather sell his merchandise. From slingin' t-shirts to writing music, it was time for Swindell to shine. He explains the opportunities that led to his first big break in music. Dale Jr., co-host Mike Davis, and Swindell bring us inside what it's like in the Country music scene as a songwriter and performer. How playing the bar circuit in Nashville can connect an artist to the next shot. Speaking of bars, which Nashville watering hole is Cole's favorite? We find out. Swindell is not shy about sharing his love for his alma mater, Georgia Southern. It's the same place that Mike Davis went to school. The two share some fun talk about their different paths from the same institution. Davis also asks Cole about some of the stigma surrounding the new-country scene. Swindell is a big Atlanta Braves fan. Many people know that. But what some don't realize is how big of a NASCAR fan he is. This isn't just some celebrity fly-by-night NASCAR fan, the Dawson County native has been following the Cup Series since he was a child. Before Swindell arrives Dale Jr. answers some amazing fan questions in our AskJr segment. We learn about how Dirty Mo Media was started, Dale's new square body Chevy truck, and the day Dale Earnhardt Jr lassoed a fish. Yes, I said "lassoed a fish." The biggest moment of the show comes when the cat is let out of the bag. Amy Earnhardt, Mike Davis, Swindell and the Dirty Mo Media gang had been scheming a birthday surprise for Dale Jr. Well, let's just say the surprise not only closed the show, but it brought Dale Jr. to tears. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Grammy award-winning Country Music superstar Cole Swindell pulls up a chair at the big wooden table to have a chat with good friend Dale Earnhardt Jr. The two giants in their perspective industry have a special bond. They open up about the loss of their fathers and mothers and how they each found ways to cope with unthinkable loss. It's a conversation that brings us closer to how Cole, who lost his father in a freak accident as a child, and his mother to illness recently, was able to carry on. He didn't miss a beat, playing his popular song, "You Should Be Here" in front of packed audiences for an even deeper meaning. We learn how the particular song brought Dale Jr. and Cole together.Swindell didn't have a typical start for a country music artist. Yes, he was a songwriter, that moved to Nashville in hopes of achieving his dreams of being on the big stage. But his story really starts at a college dorm, where he met fellow Georgia Southern alum and country music artist Luke Bryan. The friendship grew into Cole going on the road with Bryan. But, not to perform... rather sell his merchandise. From slingin' t-shirts to writing music, it was time for Swindell to shine. He explains the opportunities that led to his first big break in music.Dale Jr., co-host Mike Davis, and Swindell bring us inside what it's like in the Country music scene as a songwriter and performer. How playing the bar circuit in Nashville can connect an artist to the next shot. Speaking of bars, which Nashville watering hole is Cole's favorite? We find out.Swindell is not shy about sharing his love for his alma mater, Georgia Southern. It's the same place that Mike Davis went to school. The two share some fun talk about their different paths from the same institution. Davis also asks Cole about some of the stigma surrounding the new-country scene.Swindell is a big Atlanta Braves fan. Many people know that. But what some don't realize is how big of a NASCAR fan he is. This isn't just some celebrity fly-by-night NASCAR fan, the Dawson County native has been following the Cup Series since he was a child.Before Swindell arrives Dale Jr. answers some amazing fan questions in our AskJr segment. We learn about how Dirty Mo Media was started, Dale's new square body Chevy truck, and the day Dale Earnhardt Jr lassoed a fish. Yes, I said "lassoed a fish."The biggest moment of the show comes when the cat is let out of the bag. Amy Earnhardt, Mike Davis, Swindell and the Dirty Mo Media gang had been scheming a birthday surprise for Dale Jr. Well, let's just say the surprise not only closed the show, but it brought Dale Jr. to tears. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

He came with speed, and he came with gifts. IndyCar Series Champion Alex Palou, the young champion, sits at the table with Dale Earnhardt Jr. to talk about his sudden rise to the pinnacles of motorsport. The colorful Spaniard didn't come from a racing family. It was a local go-kart track near his home village of Sant Antoni de Vilamajor Spain, that sparked his interest in becoming a racecar driver. From there, a path of persistence, raw speed, and opportunity led him to eventually become the 2021 NTT Indycar Series Champion. Palou connects with Dale Jr. and co-host Mike Davis about life in Spain and what it was like to grow up overseas. A racing path that took him far from home at a young age to Japan, Palou had to get used to different cultures as he tried to find himself as a racer and a man. That path didn't come without disappointment and setback. From homemade mountain dynos to racing for big teams in GP3 and F3, it's a true racing story. Alex Palou came on the scene with success in his rookie IndyCar season with Dale Coyne Racing. But it was his sophomore season that set the stage for his meteoric rise. An opportunity came with Chip Ganassi Racing and he took full advantage of it. Leaning on veteran leadership of teammates Scott Dixon and Jimmie Johnson, the youngster made a name for himself with three victories and the series title. To boot, he nearly won the Indianapolis 500. The near-miss in the world's biggest race didn't set him back though. Palou shares how the 7-time NASCAR Champion, Johnson, helped him mentally break through setbacks. Palou also came into the Bojangles studio with gifts, for Dale's Birthday and also some keepsakes for the crew. The 24-year old shares his personality as he and Dale Jr. talk about the dynamic personalities of the international scene that IndyCar presents. Dale Jr. first experienced it in iRacing, and it is why he and Mike on fire for the open-wheel brand of racing. Before Palou's arrival, Dale Jr. took control of the room. We're joking. Actually, an energy drink and a spunky mood had the whole gang wondering where Dale Jr. would go next. From Frankenstein to Cash-only soda machines... Dale Jr. held court in ways only Dale Jr. can. He and Mike also touched on the hottest topic in NASCAR today, the ongoing rivalry between Chase Elliott and Kevin Harvick. In Ask Jr. it's all about the triangle... of the tasty kind! Dave Portnoy's latest Dale Jr. invoked Pizza review brings up some questions about how it went down and the Key West drunken pizza hotspot. We also learn about Dale Jr's latest Chevy Silverado and how he decided the wild graphics he put on it. That and much more in this entertaining version of The Dale Jr. Download. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

He came with speed, and he came with gifts. IndyCar Series Champion Alex Palou, the young champion, sits at the table with Dale Earnhardt Jr. to talk about his sudden rise to the pinnacles of motorsport. The colorful Spaniard didn't come from a racing family. It was a local go-kart track near his home village of Sant Antoni de Vilamajor Spain, that sparked his interest in becoming a racecar driver. From there, a path of persistence, raw speed, and opportunity led him to eventually become the 2021 NTT Indycar Series Champion.Palou connects with Dale Jr. and co-host Mike Davis about life in Spain and what it was like to grow up overseas. A racing path that took him far from home at a young age to Japan, Palou had to get used to different cultures as he tried to find himself as a racer and a man. That path didn't come without disappointment and setback. From homemade mountain dynos to racing for big teams in GP3 and F3, it's a true racing story.Alex Palou came on the scene with success in his rookie IndyCar season with Dale Coyne Racing. But it was his sophomore season that set the stage for his meteoric rise. An opportunity came with Chip Ganassi Racing and he took full advantage of it. Leaning on veteran leadership of teammates Scott Dixon and Jimmie Johnson, the youngster made a name for himself with three victories and the series title. To boot, he nearly won the Indianapolis 500. The near-miss in the world's biggest race didn't set him back though. Palou shares how the 7-time NASCAR Champion, Johnson, helped him mentally break through setbacks.Palou also came into the Bojangles studio with gifts, for Dale's Birthday and also some keepsakes for the crew. The 24-year old shares his personality as he and Dale Jr. talk about the dynamic personalities of the international scene that IndyCar presents. Dale Jr. first experienced it in iRacing, and it is why he and Mike on fire for the open-wheel brand of racing.Before Palou's arrival, Dale Jr. took control of the room. We're joking. Actually, an energy drink and a spunky mood had the whole gang wondering where Dale Jr. would go next. From Frankenstein to Cash-only soda machines... Dale Jr. held court in ways only Dale Jr. can. He and Mike also touched on the hottest topic in NASCAR today, the ongoing rivalry between Chase Elliott and Kevin Harvick.In Ask Jr. it's all about the triangle... of the tasty kind! Dave Portnoy's latest Dale Jr. invoked Pizza review brings up some questions about how it went down and the Key West drunken pizza hotspot. We also learn about Dale Jr's latest Chevy Silverado and how he decided the wild graphics he put on it.That and much more in this entertaining version of The Dale Jr. Download. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Nothing is more powerful than redemption. Dale Earnhardt Jr. sits down with friend and former NASCAR racer, Lyndon Amick, about his life as racecar driver, combat soldier, and his miraculous journey to pick up the pieces of a broken life. A young man from a family of South Carolina chicken farmers decided to take the path of most resistance. He wanted to be a racecar driver. Sugartit Speedway in the Palmetto state fueled his desire to give racing a try. And boy did he try. The big boy stuffed himself in a go-kart with the goal of being fast. His ascension into the upper ranks of the sport came just as fast. Fast forward some race wins and a championship in the Goody's Dash Series, and suddenly the Amick Family Farms had their very own NASCAR Xfinity Series team. And with it came struggles. A new team, a driver trying to learn. Although he showed glimpses of raw talent, things never seemed to work out for Lyndon Amick. Shortly after the birth of his first son, a race at Talladega was the pivot point for Lyndon Amick. While spinning backward in a massive 20-something car crash, he decided that he was done. Lyndon walked away from the life of a NASCAR driver. He decided to enlist in the military. His life switched from race days, interviews, and appearances to drill sergeants stripping down his being to build the perfect soldier. His mindset was clear. Not only did he want to serve his country, he wanted to fight for it. The journey took him across the globe to Afghanistan. While there he learned the mindset of what it took to stay alive amidst the everyday reality that each day could be his last. No day more apparent than when his company ended up in a fire-fight. With bullets forming a canopy of smoke above him, Amick turned into the proven leader. But when the combat stopped, he admits the realities that faced him when he got back home, were not so fulfilling. What he escaped for was something he now had to face, himself. An imperfect husband, a dead-beat dad. Simply put, his marriage was broken and his life was about to come off the rails. Just how did the story transform from darkness to light? Lyndon shares his soul with Dale Jr. and co-host Mike Davis. He reveals the inner workings of the healing that put back the pieces of his broken life. Before Lyndon came into the studio to share his incredible journey, Dale Jr. admitted to some faults of his own. His came in the NBC broadcast booth. The two-time Daytona 500 winner and rookie play-by-play broadcaster asked producer Matthew Dillner to point out his mistakes calling Saturday's NASCAR Xfinity race at Talladega Superspeedway. The result provided a look into Dale's life as a broadcaster, his goals, and some laughter too. Dale Jr. also brings up his disappointment with the rain-filled weekend and race postponement at Talladega Superspeedway and offers a solution that can be done within the fine print of a race weekend. Dale, Mike, Matthew, and Leah pull the curtain back on the Texas World Speedway episode and what made the visit to America's only Lost Superspeedway such a moving explore for the team. Recently, daddy-Dale-Jr. had a day alone with his youngest daughter Nicole. What sort of adventures did they get into? Well, let's just say it ended with a hot air balloon in the buffalo pen on his property. Ask Jr brings out that story and so much more. Everyone on the entire Dale Jr. Download team agrees, this is an episode full of amazing moments, but most importantly, one that a lot of us can learn from. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Nothing is more powerful than redemption. Dale Earnhardt Jr. sits down with friend and former NASCAR racer, Lyndon Amick, about his life as racecar driver, combat soldier, and his miraculous journey to pick up the pieces of a broken life.A young man from a family of South Carolina chicken farmers decided to take the path of most resistance. He wanted to be a racecar driver. Sugartit Speedway in the Palmetto state fueled his desire to give racing a try. And boy did he try. The big boy stuffed himself in a go-kart with the goal of being fast. His ascension into the upper ranks of the sport came just as fast. Fast forward some race wins and a championship in the Goody's Dash Series, and suddenly the Amick Family Farms had their very own NASCAR Xfinity Series team. And with it came struggles. A new team, a driver trying to learn. Although he showed glimpses of raw talent, things never seemed to work out for Lyndon Amick.Shortly after the birth of his first son, a race at Talladega was the pivot point for Lyndon Amick. While spinning backward in a massive 20-something car crash, he decided that he was done. Lyndon walked away from the life of a NASCAR driver. He decided to enlist in the military. His life switched from race days, interviews, and appearances to drill sergeants stripping down his being to build the perfect soldier. His mindset was clear. Not only did he want to serve his country, he wanted to fight for it.The journey took him across the globe to Afghanistan. While there he learned the mindset of what it took to stay alive amidst the everyday reality that each day could be his last. No day more apparent than when his company ended up in a fire-fight. With bullets forming a canopy of smoke above him, Amick turned into the proven leader.But when the combat stopped, he admits the realities that faced him when he got back home, were not so fulfilling. What he escaped for was something he now had to face, himself. An imperfect husband, a dead-beat dad. Simply put, his marriage was broken and his life was about to come off the rails. Just how did the story transform from darkness to light? Lyndon shares his soul with Dale Jr. and co-host Mike Davis. He reveals the inner workings of the healing that put back the pieces of his broken life.Before Lyndon came into the studio to share his incredible journey, Dale Jr. admitted to some faults of his own. His came in the NBC broadcast booth. The two-time Daytona 500 winner and rookie play-by-play broadcaster asked producer Matthew Dillner to point out his mistakes calling Saturday's NASCAR Xfinity race at Talladega Superspeedway. The result provided a look into Dale's life as a broadcaster, his goals, and some laughter too.Dale Jr. also brings up his disappointment with the rain-filled weekend and race postponement at Talladega Superspeedway and offers a solution that can be done within the fine print of a race weekend.Dale, Mike, Matthew, and Leah pull the curtain back on the Texas World Speedway episode and what made the visit to America's only Lost Superspeedway such a moving explore for the team.Recently, daddy-Dale-Jr. had a day alone with his youngest daughter Nicole. What sort of adventures did they get into? Well, let's just say it ended with a hot air balloon in the buffalo pen on his property. Ask Jr brings out that story and so much more.Everyone on the entire Dale Jr. Download team agrees, this is an episode full of amazing moments, but most importantly, one that a lot of us can learn from. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Two racecar drivers from two hard-nosed racing families converge at the big wooden table as Dale Earnhardt Jr. sits down with "The Bent Creek Bandit" Robert Pressley. Where has the former NASCAR driver been? He's still proudly from Asheville but now he serves the people of the popular North Carolina city in a different way, as a County Commissioner. How the hell does a NASCAR driver turn into a politician? And does he even like it? We find out the truth right away. Robert's father Bob Pressley was a legend of the Carolina Short Track scene and his son followed right in his footsteps. And let's just say, the apple didn't fall far from the tree. They were both cut from the cloth of self-made grizzled short trackers that didn't back down from anyone... including each other. Bob Pressley's rivals turned into Roberts and then with the one bump to the back bumper, father and son became the rivalry. Just how intense did it get? Robert gives us the details inside a family feud that helped define their relationship and ultimately bring them closer together. Where the Earnhardt and Pressley family connection is one of the more interesting conversations. Apparently, there was a generational bullying that started with Dale Jr.'s grandfather, short track great Ralph Earnhardt, and continued on through Dale Sr. and Robert. It's a story you have to hear. Robert's start in racing came at the now-defunct New Asheville Motor Speedway, racing against greats like Bosco Lowe and Jack Ingram. It's a place that was very close to Pressley's heart and the reason why Dale Jr. decided to have him on his Peacock TV television show "Lost Speedways." Pressley gives us the inside scoop on the concerns the city of Asheville had before shooting on location at the track, now called Carrier Park, and the community reaction afterward. How did the show also get the truth out there about its closing while closing the book on its biggest controversy, a famed incident between the Pressley's and "The Iron Man" Jack Ingram? Another North Carolina great, Basketball star turned broadcaster Brad Daugherty, got his fingernails dirty as a crew member on Robert Pressley's race team. They traveled around winning races and getting shot at in the process. They even showed up to the racetrack one night with a truck, a couch, a loveseat, and a racecar, and whooped their butts. From Late Models, the second generation driver launched a NASCAR career and soon found success on a myriad of raceways across America. This led to opportunities that he couldn't turn down, but some that left him with regret. From replacing the great Harry Gant, to getting fired at Alliance, to his up and down tenure at Jasper Racing, Pressley tells all. He also explains how one rivalry spelled the end for his first Cup Series ride. Pressley, Dale Jr., and co-host Mike Davis enjoy some laughs talking about racing, fighting, and cheating. Boy, the stories go deep. But none deeper than a surprise moment at the end of the show when Dale and Robert let the cat out of the bag about an incident between them. The story reveals a truth never known until now. Before Pressley arrived, Dale Jr. talks about his work weekend in Las Vegas with his wife Amy. While the trip was nice, they came home to a more hostile Monday. Two dogs fighting and two children not getting along produced a not-so-perfect day in the Earnhardt household. Recent "Behind the Scenes" social media content sparks conversation in the studio about what it was really like filming Lost Speedways. We learn that Leah Vaughn is grossed out by Dale and Matthew kicking the "poop pipe" and if Dillner really did fart on the backstretch during the explore? In AskJr, fan questions spur some incredible insight from Dale Jr, including a fantastic story about his father hopping on the radio to give him live-time insight into how to get around Bristol Motor Speedway. A rare father-son moment of instruction that Dale Jr shares with us all. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Two racecar drivers from two hard-nosed racing families converge at the big wooden table as Dale Earnhardt Jr. sits down with "The Bent Creek Bandit" Robert Pressley.Where has the former NASCAR driver been? He's still proudly from Asheville but now he serves the people of the popular North Carolina city in a different way, as a County Commissioner. How the hell does a NASCAR driver turn into a politician? And does he even like it? We find out the truth right away.Robert's father Bob Pressley was a legend of the Carolina Short Track scene and his son followed right in his footsteps. And let's just say, the apple didn't fall far from the tree. They were both cut from the cloth of self-made grizzled short trackers that didn't back down from anyone... including each other. Bob Pressley's rivals turned into Roberts and then with the one bump to the back bumper, father and son became the rivalry. Just how intense did it get? Robert gives us the details inside a family feud that helped define their relationship and ultimately bring them closer together.Where the Earnhardt and Pressley family connection is one of the more interesting conversations. Apparently, there was a generational bullying that started with Dale Jr.'s grandfather, short track great Ralph Earnhardt, and continued on through Dale Sr. and Robert. It's a story you have to hear.Robert's start in racing came at the now-defunct New Asheville Motor Speedway, racing against greats like Bosco Lowe and Jack Ingram. It's a place that was very close to Pressley's heart and the reason why Dale Jr. decided to have him on his Peacock TV television show "Lost Speedways." Pressley gives us the inside scoop on the concerns the city of Asheville had before shooting on location at the track, now called Carrier Park, and the community reaction afterward. How did the show also get the truth out there about its closing while closing the book on its biggest controversy, a famed incident between the Pressley's and "The Iron Man" Jack Ingram?Another North Carolina great, Basketball star turned broadcaster Brad Daugherty, got his fingernails dirty as a crew member on Robert Pressley's race team. They traveled around winning races and getting shot at in the process. They even showed up to the racetrack one night with a truck, a couch, a loveseat, and a racecar, and whooped their butts.From Late Models, the second generation driver launched a NASCAR career and soon found success on a myriad of raceways across America. This led to opportunities that he couldn't turn down, but some that left him with regret. From replacing the great Harry Gant, to getting fired at Alliance, to his up and down tenure at Jasper Racing, Pressley tells all. He also explains how one rivalry spelled the end for his first Cup Series ride.Pressley, Dale Jr., and co-host Mike Davis enjoy some laughs talking about racing, fighting, and cheating. Boy, the stories go deep. But none deeper than a surprise moment at the end of the show when Dale and Robert let the cat out of the bag about an incident between them. The story reveals a truth never known until now.Before Pressley arrived, Dale Jr. talks about his work weekend in Las Vegas with his wife Amy. While the trip was nice, they came home to a more hostile Monday. Two dogs fighting and two children not getting along produced a not-so-perfect day in the Earnhardt household.Recent "Behind the Scenes" social media content sparks conversation in the studio about what it was really like filming Lost Speedways. We learn that Leah Vaughn is grossed out by Dale and Matthew kicking the "poop pipe" and if Dillner really did fart on the backstretch during the explore?In AskJr, fan questions spur some incredible insight from Dale Jr, including a fantastic story about his father hopping on the radio to give him live-time insight into how to get around Bristol Motor Speedway. A rare father-son moment of instruction that Dale Jr shares with us all. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Racing has always been a family affair for the Earnhardts. Dale Earnhardt Jr. decides to sit down with his uncle, Danny Earnhardt Sr., about life as one of the most low-key parts of the Earnhardt racing legacy. Danny gives us a peek at what life was like growing up on Sedan Avenue in Kannapolis, NC as the son of a dirt track legend, Ralph Earnhardt. What were the Earnhardt children like growing up? He tells us about a path from playing in the streets and flunking fifth grade to working in the famed garage preparing Ralph's stock cars. Dale gets Danny to open up about when the family lost their patriarch to a heart attack in 1973. This family isn't a simple one. Danny and Dale Jr. outline how three racing families, the Earnhardts, the Eurys, and the Gees became one. It wasn't always racing for Danny, life at the Mill in Kannapolis was hard work, but a choice for the quiet gentleman. All the while, he kept weekends for racing, Danny was always there for Dale Sr. in his racing career from working in the shop, pitting the cars, to being his biggest fan in the stands. He tells a never-told story of Dale Earnhardt's first laps on pavement at North Carolina's Hickory Motor Speedway. When some third-generation driver named Dale Earnhardt Jr. came along, it was Danny who bent his brother's ear about the young driver's talent and promise. The story could've been over in February of 2001 after the death of Dale Earnhardt Sr. But, Dale Jr, Danny, and the rest of the family carried on with the strength and grit that is known from this family. Nephew and Uncle talk for the first time about that day and how they spent the moments after the crash in Daytona. Before Danny arrives, Dale Jr. and co-host Mike Davis share their thoughts about the NASCAR weekend at Bristol that included a spectacular finish in the Xfinity Series and a post-race dust-up between Chase Elliott and Kevin Harvick. What's their take on the fireworks between the two angry drivers? Also, Dale Jr. phones Xfinity driver Kyle Weatherman after wrecking his bumper in the recent Richmond race. In AskJr presented by Xfinity, Dale is asked if he's ever impeded the finish of a race. He also gives his hot-take on the 2021 NASCAR schedule and what he thinks about Bristol's return to dirt racing. Plus, what Lost Speedway in Wilkes County, NC should think about a dirt surface of its own. Dale and the DJD gang of Matthew Dillner and Leah Vaughn talk about their favorite racing destinations if Dale Jr. brought a Motorsports time machine to the Bojangles Studio. That and much more! To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Racing has always been a family affair for the Earnhardts. Dale Earnhardt Jr. decides to sit down with his uncle, Danny Earnhardt Sr., about life as one of the most low-key parts of the Earnhardt racing legacy. Danny gives us a peek at what life was like growing up on Sedan Avenue in Kannapolis, NC as the son of a dirt track legend, Ralph Earnhardt. What were the Earnhardt children like growing up? He tells us about a path from playing in the streets and flunking fifth grade to working in the famed garage preparing Ralph's stock cars. Dale gets Danny to open up about when the family lost their patriarch to a heart attack in 1973.This family isn't a simple one. Danny and Dale Jr. outline how three racing families, the Earnhardts, the Eurys, and the Gees became one.It wasn't always racing for Danny, life at the Mill in Kannapolis was hard work, but a choice for the quiet gentleman. All the while, he kept weekends for racing, Danny was always there for Dale Sr. in his racing career from working in the shop, pitting the cars, to being his biggest fan in the stands. He tells a never-told story of Dale Earnhardt's first laps on pavement at North Carolina's Hickory Motor Speedway. When some third-generation driver named Dale Earnhardt Jr. came along, it was Danny who bent his brother's ear about the young driver's talent and promise.The story could've been over in February of 2001 after the death of Dale Earnhardt Sr. But, Dale Jr, Danny, and the rest of the family carried on with the strength and grit that is known from this family. Nephew and Uncle talk for the first time about that day and how they spent the moments after the crash in Daytona.Before Danny arrives, Dale Jr. and co-host Mike Davis share their thoughts about the NASCAR weekend at Bristol that included a spectacular finish in the Xfinity Series and a post-race dust-up between Chase Elliott and Kevin Harvick. What's their take on the fireworks between the two angry drivers? Also, Dale Jr. phones Xfinity driver Kyle Weatherman after wrecking his bumper in the recent Richmond race.In AskJr presented by Xfinity, Dale is asked if he's ever impeded the finish of a race. He also gives his hot-take on the 2021 NASCAR schedule and what he thinks about Bristol's return to dirt racing. Plus, what Lost Speedway in Wilkes County, NC should think about a dirt surface of its own. Dale and the DJD gang of Matthew Dillner and Leah Vaughn talk about their favorite racing destinations if Dale Jr. brought a Motorsports time machine to the Bojangles Studio.That and much more! To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr.'s one race of the 2021 season didn't come and go quietly. Jr. and co-host Mike Davis decided to discuss the good, the bad, and the ugly from his race and bring in some of the characters in play. Dale's 14th place finish in the NASCAR Xfinity Series race at Virginia's Richmond Raceway ruffled a few feathers. The 2-time Daytona 500 Champion discusses the on-track incident that wrinkled his racecar and led to the sub-par result. Plus, the post-race discussion between him and a not-so-happy Kyle Weatherman. It was a conversation that still has Dale chippy. During the race, Dale Jr. also traded some paint with Xfinity Series regular Josh Williams. So why not call Josh? We didn't just call him, we learned his side of the story. Williams also shares about his fight to the top of the NASCAR ranks, something that Dale admits he respects even more after racing against drivers like him in the series. Jr. Nation was a little rough on Williams. How has he weathered the storm? JR Motorsports driver Josh Berry was also in the race, in another team's car, and went wheel to wheel with his friend Dale Jr. for the very first time. Dale brings Josh on to talk about that first. The most special moment for Dale though, was having his family there with him for the race. What did it mean to him to have Amy, Isla, and Nicole by his side before the race? Dale and the DJD gang talk about Dale's broken toe during AskJr presented by Xfinity, and the foot photo that revealed it. We also talk of potentially getting behind the wheel of a Gen-6 NASCAR Cup Series racecar to learn the car for his broadcasting duties. Speaking of fresh rides, Dale Jr. explains why his garage Corvette has been replaced by an indoor-bouncy house. That and much more on a special edition of The Dale Jr. Download. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr.'s one race of the 2021 season didn't come and go quietly. Jr. and co-host Mike Davis decided to discuss the good, the bad, and the ugly from his race and bring in some of the characters in play.Dale's 14th place finish in the NASCAR Xfinity Series race at Virginia's Richmond Raceway ruffled a few feathers. The 2-time Daytona 500 Champion discusses the on-track incident that wrinkled his racecar and led to the sub-par result. Plus, the post-race discussion between him and a not-so-happy Kyle Weatherman. It was a conversation that still has Dale chippy.During the race, Dale Jr. also traded some paint with Xfinity Series regular Josh Williams. So why not call Josh? We didn't just call him, we learned his side of the story. Williams also shares about his fight to the top of the NASCAR ranks, something that Dale admits he respects even more after racing against drivers like him in the series. Jr. Nation was a little rough on Williams. How has he weathered the storm?JR Motorsports driver Josh Berry was also in the race, in another team's car, and went wheel to wheel with his friend Dale Jr. for the very first time. Dale brings Josh on to talk about that first. The most special moment for Dale though, was having his family there with him for the race. What did it mean to him to have Amy, Isla, and Nicole by his side before the race?Dale and the DJD gang talk about Dale's broken toe during AskJr presented by Xfinity, and the foot photo that revealed it. We also talk of potentially getting behind the wheel of a Gen-6 NASCAR Cup Series racecar to learn the car for his broadcasting duties. Speaking of fresh rides, Dale Jr. explains why his garage Corvette has been replaced by an indoor-bouncy house.That and much more on a special edition of The Dale Jr. Download. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Behind nearly every superstar is a publicist. For a young Dale Earnhardt Jr, the man behind the public-machine that became the Dale Jr and the Budweiser number-eight was a man named Jade Gurss. Not many will know the name, but he was a major player in the growth and trajectory of Dale Earnhardt Jr.'s Hall of Fame NASCAR career. For the first time ever, Jade and Dale Jr sit down to talk about the good-old-days and some that were far from it. While doing public relations for Budweiser, Jade was the man managing Dale Jr behind the scenes. From at-track interviews to magazine articles, to appearances on major television shows, Jade Gurss was making things happen. Gurss and Dale Jr talk about some of the biggest things they did together, from presenting at the Video Music Awards, being on the Late Show, to Dale Jr hosting an episode of MTV cribs, it was a publicity path that brought Dale, and NASCAR, to areas of American culture that most drivers never went. Just how did some of it come about and how did the introverted Dale Jr handle being thrust into the spotlight on such a stage? It wasn't always simple. Dale and Jade even joke about sitting between Jessica Simpson and Mandy Moore at the VMA's to a blundered appearance on David Letterman's show. The print about the second-generation driver didn't just come in racing publications, the exposure soon rocketed from Sports Illustrated all the way to Playboy and Rolling Stone magazine. This conversation isn't just a two-way street either. Co-host Mike Davis, a long-time employee, and friend of Dale got his introduction and big opportunity getting hired by Jade Gurss to fill in for him on the Bud-8. The role grew Davis' public relations career to new heights. They reunite and tell stories of what it was like managing a young and difficult driver during years that saw everything from major parties to major appearances. They also put it all out on the table about Davis' decision to leave Gurss and take a full-time job with JR Motorsports. Takes of boxing ring black eyes with Arturo Gatti and rock-star-like bandana coverups highlight this insightful conversation. They also get deep about Dale's Mike Wallace interview and how Dale Jr believed his father pulled him from the burning Corvette racecar at Sonoma. Jade opens up about writing the book about Dale Jr., Driver #8, and the meeting with Teresa Earnhardt and Ty Norris right before it went to print. Before Jade showed up, Dale Jr and Mike Davis chit-chat about a cute video of Isla, that hints at the desire to be a racecar driver someday. Was it just cute or does Dale take it seriously? They also talk about the coming-of-age process of Jr Motorsports driver Noah Gragson and how he's developed relationships with sponsors that have helped him grow in his career. AskJr presented by Xfinity delivers some tough questions for Dale, including one about the role of the flagman that gets him thinking about something he's never paid much attention to. He shares a story about the first time TJ Majors spotted a Cup car and might've exaggerated the green flag call by a few corners. Dale discovers that he'll be racing against his great friend Josh Berry at Richmond this week, as Dale prepares for his lone time behind the wheel of a NASCAR racecar in 2021. The DJD gang poke fun at each other, mainly at producer Matthew Dillner's expense, and have a great time during this packed episode of awesomeness. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Behind nearly every superstar is a publicist. For a young Dale Earnhardt Jr, the man behind the public-machine that became the Dale Jr and the Budweiser number-eight was a man named Jade Gurss. Not many will know the name, but he was a major player in the growth and trajectory of Dale Earnhardt Jr.'s Hall of Fame NASCAR career. For the first time ever, Jade and Dale Jr sit down to talk about the good-old-days and some that were far from it.While doing public relations for Budweiser, Jade was the man managing Dale Jr behind the scenes. From at-track interviews to magazine articles, to appearances on major television shows, Jade Gurss was making things happen. Gurss and Dale Jr talk about some of the biggest things they did together, from presenting at the Video Music Awards, being on the Late Show, to Dale Jr hosting an episode of MTV cribs, it was a publicity path that brought Dale, and NASCAR, to areas of American culture that most drivers never went. Just how did some of it come about and how did the introverted Dale Jr handle being thrust into the spotlight on such a stage? It wasn't always simple. Dale and Jade even joke about sitting between Jessica Simpson and Mandy Moore at the VMA's to a blundered appearance on David Letterman's show. The print about the second-generation driver didn't just come in racing publications, the exposure soon rocketed from Sports Illustrated all the way to Playboy and Rolling Stone magazine.This conversation isn't just a two-way street either. Co-host Mike Davis, a long-time employee, and friend of Dale got his introduction and big opportunity getting hired by Jade Gurss to fill in for him on the Bud-8. The role grew Davis' public relations career to new heights. They reunite and tell stories of what it was like managing a young and difficult driver during years that saw everything from major parties to major appearances. They also put it all out on the table about Davis' decision to leave Gurss and take a full-time job with JR Motorsports. Takes of boxing ring black eyes with Arturo Gatti and rock-star-like bandana coverups highlight this insightful conversation. They also get deep about Dale's Mike Wallace interview and how Dale Jr believed his father pulled him from the burning Corvette racecar at Sonoma. Jade opens up about writing the book about Dale Jr., Driver #8, and the meeting with Teresa Earnhardt and Ty Norris right before it went to print.Before Jade showed up, Dale Jr and Mike Davis chit-chat about a cute video of Isla, that hints at the desire to be a racecar driver someday. Was it just cute or does Dale take it seriously?They also talk about the coming-of-age process of Jr Motorsports driver Noah Gragson and how he's developed relationships with sponsors that have helped him grow in his career.AskJr presented by Xfinity delivers some tough questions for Dale, including one about the role of the flagman that gets him thinking about something he's never paid much attention to. He shares a story about the first time TJ Majors spotted a Cup car and might've exaggerated the green flag call by a few corners. Dale discovers that he'll be racing against his great friend Josh Berry at Richmond this week, as Dale prepares for his lone time behind the wheel of a NASCAR racecar in 2021.The DJD gang poke fun at each other, mainly at producer Matthew Dillner's expense, and have a great time during this packed episode of awesomeness. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Never judge a book by its cover... IMSA Sportscar racer Jordan Taylor is a perfect example of the saying. A clean-cut, put-together, shy young racer who has a heavy foot, and much to the delight of Dale Earnhardt Jr, a strange sense of humor that makes him one of the most interesting racers on the planet. The second-generation driver comes in nervous to one of the biggest interviews of his career at the table with Dale Jr. and co-host Mike Davis. Although admittedly sweaty and nervous, the layers break down quickly and we learn what makes this unique personality so relatable to so many. From his alter-ego on social media to the wild videos he posts, most of what Jordan does comes from real-life stories. He shares the hilarity of several of these tales from his first girlfriend not turning out to be what he expected and the nightmare that ensued, to his Instagram getting hacked and the threat of nude photos on the black market. Yeah, if that wasn't enough for ya, how about a tale of a surprise colonoscopy. We told you he was interesting. Besides his dynamic internet presence, Taylor is a very accomplished young racer. He explains how he went from a kid watching his dad race to becoming a Championship sportscar driver. He and Dale share stories of their experiences at the 24-hours of Daytona. Dale opens up about his blunders behind the wheel while racing with his father and the Corvette team. This leads to an unreal Dale Jr. story of how his dad found out that he smoked cigarettes! Why did Taylor, a champion in the IMSA Prototype division, make the bold decision to leave those cars to move away from his family team and race for Chevrolet and Team Corvette in the GT LeMans ranks? We uncover the mindset behind the decision. How close has Jordan come to racing stock cars in NASCAR? Dale Jr. opens up about his attempts to get the road course ace behind the wheel of a car at JR Motorsports. Jordan Taylor recently finished second in the prestigious 24 Hours of LeMans and raced with a black Dale Earnhardt tribute helmet. Well, Taylor didn't just bring the helmet with him, he shocked the room by giving the helmet to Dale Earnhardt Jr as a gift of appreciation. Before Taylor came into the studio, Dale and the DJD gang discuss the recent Daytona weekend, which included Amy and Isla making the special trip. What makes Dale Jr. so tickled about having his three-year-old daughter at the race track? They also discuss the Daytona Beach and Road Course exploring that Lost Speedways spawned on social media. With Darlington on the horizon, which is not far from Myrtle Beach Speedway, Dale shares some of the best stories that didn't make the popular episode of the Peacock TV show. In AskJr presented by Xfinity, Leah selects some fan questions about iRacing and the possibility of mapping the famed Beach and Road Course. Could it really happen? Dale Jr. also shares his feelings about Whoop data and what the technology that monitors driver heart rates could mean moving forward and beyond the scope of the NASCAR on NBC broadcasts. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Never judge a book by its cover... IMSA Sportscar racer Jordan Taylor is a perfect example of the saying. A clean-cut, put-together, shy young racer who has a heavy foot, and much to the delight of Dale Earnhardt Jr, a strange sense of humor that makes him one of the most interesting racers on the planet.The second-generation driver comes in nervous to one of the biggest interviews of his career at the table with Dale Jr. and co-host Mike Davis. Although admittedly sweaty and nervous, the layers break down quickly and we learn what makes this unique personality so relatable to so many. From his alter-ego on social media to the wild videos he posts, most of what Jordan does comes from real-life stories. He shares the hilarity of several of these tales from his first girlfriend not turning out to be what he expected and the nightmare that ensued, to his Instagram getting hacked and the threat of nude photos on the black market. Yeah, if that wasn't enough for ya, how about a tale of a surprise colonoscopy. We told you he was interesting.Besides his dynamic internet presence, Taylor is a very accomplished young racer. He explains how he went from a kid watching his dad race to becoming a Championship sportscar driver. He and Dale share stories of their experiences at the 24-hours of Daytona. Dale opens up about his blunders behind the wheel while racing with his father and the Corvette team. This leads to an unreal Dale Jr. story of how his dad found out that he smoked cigarettes!Why did Taylor, a champion in the IMSA Prototype division, make the bold decision to leave those cars to move away from his family team and race for Chevrolet and Team Corvette in the GT LeMans ranks? We uncover the mindset behind the decision. How close has Jordan come to racing stock cars in NASCAR? Dale Jr. opens up about his attempts to get the road course ace behind the wheel of a car at JR Motorsports.Jordan Taylor recently finished second in the prestigious 24 Hours of LeMans and raced with a black Dale Earnhardt tribute helmet. Well, Taylor didn't just bring the helmet with him, he shocked the room by giving the helmet to Dale Earnhardt Jr as a gift of appreciation.Before Taylor came into the studio, Dale and the DJD gang discuss the recent Daytona weekend, which included Amy and Isla making the special trip. What makes Dale Jr. so tickled about having his three-year-old daughter at the race track? They also discuss the Daytona Beach and Road Course exploring that Lost Speedways spawned on social media. With Darlington on the horizon, which is not far from Myrtle Beach Speedway, Dale shares some of the best stories that didn't make the popular episode of the Peacock TV show.In AskJr presented by Xfinity, Leah selects some fan questions about iRacing and the possibility of mapping the famed Beach and Road Course. Could it really happen? Dale Jr. also shares his feelings about Whoop data and what the technology that monitors driver heart rates could mean moving forward and beyond the scope of the NASCAR on NBC broadcasts. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

He came in like a flash of lightning and then was gone, but along the way a NASCAR racer named Buckshot Jones made quite the name for himself. Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis sit down with the mysterious and controversial racer. Buckshot wasn't always known by his colorful name, and his real name had a sense of toughness as well. From the farms of Georgia sprouted a teenager with the desire to race. His self-made father helped pave the way with a plan as unique as his son's brand. His first car may have been a dusty barn find, but soon Jones was at the pinnacle of the NASCAR ranks in the Cup Series. As you could guess with a name like Buckshot, he got a lot of attention along the way. The Georgia boy moved to South Carolina to take lessons from a successful crew chief and his legendary father. From Darlington tips to shooting quarters, David Pearson taught the young driver some valuable lessons. Souvenir sales and on-track success were often rivaled by controversy. Keeping up with the NASCAR rap-sheet of the aggressive Jones became a challenge for some. We find out the real story of what started his rivalry with Randy LaJoie. Let's just say it all started in a hotel parking lot. The headlines of their tangles in some ways defined the career of Jones, who wouldn't back down from even a seasoned Champion such as LaJoie. Dale Jr. and Buckshot even hash out the wreck at Daytona, that pissed off Dick Trickle and sent the young Earnhardt on his roof during his first race at Daytona. Speaking of Earnhardts, even Dale Sr. wasn't pleased with Jones. But this time, Buckshot was quick to point out that the Intimidation was real. After a few years, poof, it was over. No double-zero car. No six-shooter logo. Where did Buckshot go? The Download finds out... Before Buckshot's arrival to the studio, Dale comes clean about who America's Crew Chief really is and what caused the chatter between the NBC booth boys and some broadcasters at Fox. Once that is solved, we learn that Mike Davis has a problem that needed solving. It involved a wet carpet, an angry wife, and unwanted videotaping. Dale and the DJD gang offer their advice to getting back on the good side of Sarah Davis. The day before the podcast, Dale Jr.'s curiosity led him to ask fans about his Peacock TV show Lost Speedways. Hear what they have to say and his challenge for this week at Daytona. Speaking of fans... they bring the heat this week with questions for the two-time Daytona 500 Champion. Dale Jr. admits to a few cheat fails during his time racing Late Models in this week's AskJr presented by Xfinity. Dale addresses rumors of NASCAR at the Los Angeles Coliseum and talks about the resurgence of AJ Almendinger in the Xfinity Series. That and much more on the Dale Jr. Download. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

He came in like a flash of lightning and then was gone, but along the way a NASCAR racer named Buckshot Jones made quite the name for himself. Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis sit down with the mysterious and controversial racer. Buckshot wasn't always known by his colorful name, and his real name had a sense of toughness as well. From the farms of Georgia sprouted a teenager with the desire to race. His self-made father helped pave the way with a plan as unique as his son's brand. His first car may have been a dusty barn find, but soon Jones was at the pinnacle of the NASCAR ranks in the Cup Series. As you could guess with a name like Buckshot, he got a lot of attention along the way. The Georgia boy moved to South Carolina to take lessons from a successful crew chief and his legendary father. From Darlington tips to shooting quarters, David Pearson taught the young driver some valuable lessons. Souvenir sales and on-track success were often rivaled by controversy. Keeping up with the NASCAR rap-sheet of the aggressive Jones became a challenge for some. We find out the real story of what started his rivalry with Randy LaJoie. Let's just say it all started in a hotel parking lot. The headlines of their tangles in some ways defined the career of Jones, who wouldn't back down from even a seasoned Champion such as LaJoie. Dale Jr. and Buckshot even hash out the wreck at Daytona, that pissed off Dick Trickle and sent the young Earnhardt on his roof during his first race at Daytona. Speaking of Earnhardts, even Dale Sr. wasn't pleased with Jones. But this time, Buckshot was quick to point out that the Intimidation was real.After a few years, poof, it was over. No double-zero car. No six-shooter logo. Where did Buckshot go? The Download finds out...Before Buckshot's arrival to the studio, Dale comes clean about who America's Crew Chief really is and what caused the chatter between the NBC booth boys and some broadcasters at Fox. Once that is solved, we learn that Mike Davis has a problem that needed solving. It involved a wet carpet, an angry wife, and unwanted videotaping. Dale and the DJD gang offer their advice to getting back on the good side of Sarah Davis.The day before the podcast, Dale Jr.'s curiosity led him to ask fans about his Peacock TV show Lost Speedways. Hear what they have to say and his challenge for this week at Daytona.Speaking of fans... they bring the heat this week with questions for the two-time Daytona 500 Champion. Dale Jr. admits to a few cheat fails during his time racing Late Models in this week's AskJr presented by Xfinity. Dale addresses rumors of NASCAR at the Los Angeles Coliseum and talks about the resurgence of AJ Almendinger in the Xfinity Series.That and much more on the Dale Jr. Download. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

One of the all-time greats, NASCAR Legend Dale Inman, walks into the studio to sit down with Dale Earnhardt Jr and talk about the shaping of the Petty racing dynasty. From humble beginnings in rural North Carolina grew local legends and a driver that would turn into an American icon. "The King" Richard Petty was the driver and the crew chief that led the way was Inman. The 8-time NASCAR Cup Series champion talks about growing up as a part of the Petty family and gives a unique insight into Lee Petty and the early days of Petty Enterprises. Inman tells the wild story of how he and Maurice Petty drove the racecar across the country to race in California. He was there for Richard Petty's first race at Columbia Speedway in 1958 and is still with Petty Motorsports to this day. From near tragedies to the greatest triumphs of all, winning seven titles and seven Daytona 500's, Inman has lived it all. The Petty family was a tight-knit group on the race track and off. They had each other's backs, including standing up to anyone who challenged their driver. Inman shares stories of incidents and fights, including he and Maurice standing up for The King. During one incident, a knife was pulled. Inman was there. The family matters also produced a split that surprised the racing world, with Dale Inman parting ways with the family team in 1981 shortly after winning the Great American Race. Why? It's a topic that Inman still struggles to talk about today. The split wasn't what Inman wanted, but the time away from Petty resulted in a few years of results and racing stories. From working with a young Dale Earnhardt and racing for a controversial coal miner, to winning the 1984 title with Texas Terry, it's a time where Inman was out on his own and showed the world he was one of the greatest of all time. Before Inman sat at the table, Dale Jr. and co-host Mike Davis broke down Indianapolis and the curb-chaos that dominated the headlines and Monday morning water-cooler conversation. In addition, Dale brings up some often used lingo, a Dale-ism, that piqued wife Amy Earnhardt's interest. Let's just say "Imawl" let y'all listen and laugh! In AskJr presented by Xfinity, Leah dishes out fan questions ranging from Dale's search for a square-body truck to if red-hot racer Kyle Larson should consider racing in the Indianapolis 500. Dale Jr. also reveals details about his father's "Deer Head Shop" on the grounds of Dale Earnhardt Inc. That and much more on this packed podcast! To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

One of the all-time greats, NASCAR Legend Dale Inman, walks into the studio to sit down with Dale Earnhardt Jr and talk about the shaping of the Petty racing dynasty. From humble beginnings in rural North Carolina grew local legends and a driver that would turn into an American icon. "The King" Richard Petty was the driver and the crew chief that led the way was Inman. The 8-time NASCAR Cup Series champion talks about growing up as a part of the Petty family and gives a unique insight into Lee Petty and the early days of Petty Enterprises. Inman tells the wild story of how he and Maurice Petty drove the racecar across the country to race in California. He was there for Richard Petty's first race at Columbia Speedway in 1958 and is still with Petty Motorsports to this day. From near tragedies to the greatest triumphs of all, winning seven titles and seven Daytona 500's, Inman has lived it all.The Petty family was a tight-knit group on the race track and off. They had each other's backs, including standing up to anyone who challenged their driver. Inman shares stories of incidents and fights, including he and Maurice standing up for The King. During one incident, a knife was pulled. Inman was there. The family matters also produced a split that surprised the racing world, with Dale Inman parting ways with the family team in 1981 shortly after winning the Great American Race. Why? It's a topic that Inman still struggles to talk about today.The split wasn't what Inman wanted, but the time away from Petty resulted in a few years of results and racing stories. From working with a young Dale Earnhardt and racing for a controversial coal miner, to winning the 1984 title with Texas Terry, it's a time where Inman was out on his own and showed the world he was one of the greatest of all time.Before Inman sat at the table, Dale Jr. and co-host Mike Davis broke down Indianapolis and the curb-chaos that dominated the headlines and Monday morning water-cooler conversation. In addition, Dale brings up some often used lingo, a Dale-ism, that piqued wife Amy Earnhardt's interest. Let's just say "Imawl" let y'all listen and laugh!In AskJr presented by Xfinity, Leah dishes out fan questions ranging from Dale's search for a square-body truck to if red-hot racer Kyle Larson should consider racing in the Indianapolis 500. Dale Jr. also reveals details about his father's "Deer Head Shop" on the grounds of Dale Earnhardt Inc.That and much more on this packed podcast! To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Two racers, two head injuries. One that ended a promising career. This week on The Download, Dale Earnhardt Jr sits down with former NASCAR driver Jerry Nadeau. Nadeau answers Dale's curiosity about how he even came on the NASCAR scene in the first place. From racing go-karts in Connecticut to racing overseas, it is an unlikely path and a very sudden arrival into NASCAR. From living all over Europe with a suitcase full of foreign money to becoming an unlikely American speedster at Brands Hatch, Nadeau eventually made it to NASCAR and quickly to one of the top teams of the sport, Hendrick Motorsports. His time with Hendrick was short but had flashes of brilliance. He reminisces about the time he beat Earnhardt and got the ultimate post-race gesture. From wood chips in the springs to fast cars, there was no doubt he was at a place that wanted to win. Unfortunately, the success was few and far between. Conflict arose and Nadeau was let go from his ride. The very next year, while growing with a brand new team, it was over. A horrific crash at Richmond International Raceway ended his career and nearly his life. The brain trauma he suffered caused immense life change. Where would he go? What would he do? Nadeau opens up about his rehab, recovery, and struggles to find purpose outside of racing. He doesn't remember much from that fateful day. What he does know, he details with Dale and co-host Mike Davis. Jerry reveals a seat adjustment that he made that may have impacted his head injury in the 128-g accident. Dale Jr shares his own personal battle with concussions and connects with his former competitor on head injuries and how to move on from them. Before Nadeau arrived at the studio, Dale Jr had the entire room in stitches. He details life at his vacation home and how he had an epic battle with rats that included traps and, of all things, soap. What happened at the beach, doesn't stay at the beach. In what Amy Earnhardt called "life-saving" Dale Jr. talks about how an almost unthinkable act, took away all of the pain from a jellyfish sting. Oh, and if that wasn't enough when Dale got home he had a battle with a pack of angry wasps that took residence in his daughter's playhouse. During AskJr presented by Xfinity, Leah drops a wide variety of questions from getting Dale's take on the potential of street courses in NASCAR to his only motorcycle. Then, in a surprising turn, we find out the incredible resolution of the great boat debate. That and much more on this episode of The Download. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Two racers, two head injuries. One that ended a promising career. This week on The Download, Dale Earnhardt Jr sits down with former NASCAR driver Jerry Nadeau.Nadeau answers Dale's curiosity about how he even came on the NASCAR scene in the first place. From racing go-karts in Connecticut to racing overseas, it is an unlikely path and a very sudden arrival into NASCAR. From living all over Europe with a suitcase full of foreign money to becoming an unlikely American speedster at Brands Hatch, Nadeau eventually made it to NASCAR and quickly to one of the top teams of the sport, Hendrick Motorsports.His time with Hendrick was short but had flashes of brilliance. He reminisces about the time he beat Earnhardt and got the ultimate post-race gesture. From wood chips in the springs to fast cars, there was no doubt he was at a place that wanted to win. Unfortunately, the success was few and far between. Conflict arose and Nadeau was let go from his ride.The very next year, while growing with a brand new team, it was over. A horrific crash at Richmond International Raceway ended his career and nearly his life. The brain trauma he suffered caused immense life change. Where would he go? What would he do? Nadeau opens up about his rehab, recovery, and struggles to find purpose outside of racing.He doesn't remember much from that fateful day. What he does know, he details with Dale and co-host Mike Davis. Jerry reveals a seat adjustment that he made that may have impacted his head injury in the 128-g accident.Dale Jr shares his own personal battle with concussions and connects with his former competitor on head injuries and how to move on from them.Before Nadeau arrived at the studio, Dale Jr had the entire room in stitches. He details life at his vacation home and how he had an epic battle with rats that included traps and, of all things, soap. What happened at the beach, doesn't stay at the beach. In what Amy Earnhardt called "life-saving" Dale Jr. talks about how an almost unthinkable act, took away all of the pain from a jellyfish sting. Oh, and if that wasn't enough when Dale got home he had a battle with a pack of angry wasps that took residence in his daughter's playhouse.During AskJr presented by Xfinity, Leah drops a wide variety of questions from getting Dale's take on the potential of street courses in NASCAR to his only motorcycle. Then, in a surprising turn, we find out the incredible resolution of the great boat debate.That and much more on this episode of The Download. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

He's not just a humble man with gray hair, an old Goodyear hat, and red suspenders, Will Cronkrite is a former NASCAR crew chief and car owner full of amazing stories that Dale Earnhardt Jr. wants the world to hear. His #96 car gave Dale Earnhardt what many consider to be his big break in NASCAR and Dale Jr. gets the low-down on how it all happened. As a "scrawny kid" he stood in his father's truck at Cronkrites shop as they readied the car for the World 600, a part of Dale Jr.'s life that Will brings to life in this fascinating conversation. The story was so much more! How did Willy T. Ribbs and Humpy Wheeler help create a chance that would springboard The Intimidator's career? Cronkrite details the early days of a father and NASCAR Hall of Famer. Cronkrite's life changed with the tragic death of his wife and children. It was at this moment that everything pivoted to Auto Racing. He took his intense work ethic and desire from the cornfields of Ohio, to Indianapolis, and eventually the top-ranks of NASCAR. Along the way, he worked with legendary drivers like Benny Parsons, David Pearson, Donnie Allison, Mark Martin, Ricky Rudd, and more. He also worked around some characters, like tough Minnesotan Joe Frasson. Cronkrite shares a crash story for the ages with Frasson, bloodied, insisting on Cronkrite taping his hand to the steering wheel. Before he arrived in the southern stock car world, Cronkrite experienced a different side of racing in the Chicagoland area. He reveals how things were different in racing up there and how he was rewarded with diamonds for good performance. He also tells the tale of a gruesome fight that led to jail time and the fear of what was to happen when he was sprung by a "connected" individual involved in the racing operation. It's a story you have to hear to believe. Cronkrite talks about many racing topics from DiGard Racing, to working with a gutsy racing pioneer named Janet Guthrie. He also shares stories from his months working on the hit Burt Reynolds movie Stroker Ace, including when Dale Sr. shook down the Chicken Pit Special. The colorful Cronkrite tells a story about actress Loni Anderson and a lucky penny that he still has to this day. Before bringing in Cronkrite, Dale and co-host Mike Davis have an open discussion about how "me" turns to "we" after marriage. In AskJr presented by Xfinity, we find out what Dale Jr. predicts for 2022 with Roush Racing and new co-owner driver Brad Keselowski. He also talks about going radio-style at the Glen and the origins of his popular skeleton driving gloves. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

He's not just a humble man with gray hair, an old Goodyear hat, and red suspenders, Will Cronkrite is a former NASCAR crew chief and car owner full of amazing stories that Dale Earnhardt Jr. wants the world to hear. His #96 car gave Dale Earnhardt what many consider to be his big break in NASCAR and Dale Jr. gets the low-down on how it all happened. As a "scrawny kid" he stood in his father's truck at Cronkrites shop as they readied the car for the World 600, a part of Dale Jr.'s life that Will brings to life in this fascinating conversation. The story was so much more! How did Willy T. Ribbs and Humpy Wheeler help create a chance that would springboard The Intimidator's career? Cronkrite details the early days of a father and NASCAR Hall of Famer.Cronkrite's life changed with the tragic death of his wife and children. It was at this moment that everything pivoted to Auto Racing. He took his intense work ethic and desire from the cornfields of Ohio, to Indianapolis, and eventually the top-ranks of NASCAR. Along the way, he worked with legendary drivers like Benny Parsons, David Pearson, Donnie Allison, Mark Martin, Ricky Rudd, and more. He also worked around some characters, like tough Minnesotan Joe Frasson. Cronkrite shares a crash story for the ages with Frasson, bloodied, insisting on Cronkrite taping his hand to the steering wheel.Before he arrived in the southern stock car world, Cronkrite experienced a different side of racing in the Chicagoland area. He reveals how things were different in racing up there and how he was rewarded with diamonds for good performance. He also tells the tale of a gruesome fight that led to jail time and the fear of what was to happen when he was sprung by a "connected" individual involved in the racing operation. It's a story you have to hear to believe.Cronkrite talks about many racing topics from DiGard Racing, to working with a gutsy racing pioneer named Janet Guthrie. He also shares stories from his months working on the hit Burt Reynolds movie Stroker Ace, including when Dale Sr. shook down the Chicken Pit Special. The colorful Cronkrite tells a story about actress Loni Anderson and a lucky penny that he still has to this day.Before bringing in Cronkrite, Dale and co-host Mike Davis have an open discussion about how "me" turns to "we" after marriage. In AskJr presented by Xfinity, we find out what Dale Jr. predicts for 2022 with Roush Racing and new co-owner driver Brad Keselowski. He also talks about going radio-style at the Glen and the origins of his popular skeleton driving gloves. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr brings two-time Indycar Champion Josef Newgarden to the studio for a conversation that turned out to be one of our favorites of the season. Why? Because the American open-wheeled racer is a dynamic personality in the sport on and off the track. Dale Jr. gets Josef to tell us about his forbidden desire to become a racer and how his first shot at racing came in sanctioned international scooter racing. From starting with scooters, how did a Nashville, Tenn.,-area native take a path through Europe to end up an IndyCar driver? It's a story that doesn't make much sense to some but is certainly intriguing. Newgarden credits his father's influence, belief, and sometimes "hands-off" approach to making him into the racer he is. Oh, plus he played a role in introducing Josef to a Disney princess, who then became his wife. Oh yeah, it's that interesting of a story! He talks about a Team USA racing scholarship that paved the way to success overseas. However, that success was met with challenges and at one point depression admits Newgarden before coming back to the states at the low point of his career. Then the opportunity of a lifetime presented itself and the determined young racer seized it. Fast forward a few years and he's a two-time IndyCar Champion racing for one of the biggest teams in the sport, Penske Racing. Newgarden opens up about the turning points that happened in this incredible journey. Newgarden and Dale Jr. go over the new street circuit in the downtown streets of Nashville and the excitement building up to the Nashville Grand Prix. How will the surface, layout, and the big bridge over the river affect the event? Will a diving team be on hand? The 30-year old driver talks about how one of his favorite drivers, 7-time NASCAR Champion Jimmie Johnson, has transitioned to the IndyCar ranks and what challenges he has faced in the process. That and so much more in this dynamic interview between a stock car racer and IndyCar driver. Aside from Josef's visit, Dale Jr. and co-host Mike Davis get into a good discussion following the viral impact of the discussion about beer and if you count it when keeping track of your calories. Dale also admits to a recent slip-up in using terms he uses with his children. From tee-tee to tinkle, it might make you giggle. Plus we find out if Dale Jr. "really" loves the Dale Jr. Download team. Ask Jr. presented by Xfinity gets the five-ring treatment as fans inquire about Dale Jr.'s opinions on the Olympic games. He also lets us in on his mindset as his only race of 2021 approaches, the Xfinity Series race at Richmond International Speedway in Virginia. What's Dale's rib preference? Does our host like 'em dry or sauced? Get your napkin ready for the answer. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr brings two-time Indycar Champion Josef Newgarden to the studio for a conversation that turned out to be one of our favorites of the season. Why? Because the American open-wheeled racer is a dynamic personality in the sport on and off the track. Dale Jr. gets Josef to tell us about his forbidden desire to become a racer and how his first shot at racing came in sanctioned international scooter racing. From starting with scooters, how did a Nashville, Tenn.,-area native take a path through Europe to end up an IndyCar driver? It's a story that doesn't make much sense to some but is certainly intriguing.Newgarden credits his father's influence, belief, and sometimes "hands-off" approach to making him into the racer he is. Oh, plus he played a role in introducing Josef to a Disney princess, who then became his wife. Oh yeah, it's that interesting of a story!He talks about a Team USA racing scholarship that paved the way to success overseas. However, that success was met with challenges and at one point depression admits Newgarden before coming back to the states at the low point of his career. Then the opportunity of a lifetime presented itself and the determined young racer seized it. Fast forward a few years and he's a two-time IndyCar Champion racing for one of the biggest teams in the sport, Penske Racing. Newgarden opens up about the turning points that happened in this incredible journey.Newgarden and Dale Jr. go over the new street circuit in the downtown streets of Nashville and the excitement building up to the Nashville Grand Prix. How will the surface, layout, and the big bridge over the river affect the event? Will a diving team be on hand?The 30-year old driver talks about how one of his favorite drivers, 7-time NASCAR Champion Jimmie Johnson, has transitioned to the IndyCar ranks and what challenges he has faced in the process. That and so much more in this dynamic interview between a stock car racer and IndyCar driver.Aside from Josef's visit, Dale Jr. and co-host Mike Davis get into a good discussion following the viral impact of the discussion about beer and if you count it when keeping track of your calories. Dale also admits to a recent slip-up in using terms he uses with his children. From tee-tee to tinkle, it might make you giggle. Plus we find out if Dale Jr. "really" loves the Dale Jr. Download team.Ask Jr. presented by Xfinity gets the five-ring treatment as fans inquire about Dale Jr.'s opinions on the Olympic games. He also lets us in on his mindset as his only race of 2021 approaches, the Xfinity Series race at Richmond International Speedway in Virginia. What's Dale's rib preference? Does our host like 'em dry or sauced? Get your napkin ready for the answer. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

From the creators of The Dale Jr. Download, Door Bumper Clear, and Lost Speedways, comes the brand new racing history podcast, "Glorious, White-Knuckled, God-Fearing, Spun-Out-And-Half Turned-Over Racing Stories." Veteran racing journalist Rick Houston brings his archival interviews and stories back to life with a fresh new design. Here's a preview of what to expect from Dirty Mo Media's newest endeavor. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

From the creators of The Dale Jr. Download, Door Bumper Clear, and Lost Speedways, comes the brand new racing history podcast, "Glorious, White-Knuckled, God-Fearing, Spun-Out-And-Half Turned-Over Racing Stories." Veteran racing journalist Rick Houston brings his archival interviews and stories back to life with a fresh new design. Here's a preview of what to expect from Dirty Mo Media's newest endeavor. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

NASCAR was only two years old the first time the Wood Brothers took to the track in 1950. 71 years later, Dale Earnhardt Jr. gets the chance to sit down with a true pioneer of the sport, the great Leonard Wood of the famed Wood Brothers Racing Team. Wood talks about his beginnings in the sport in 1950 and how they grew from some street racing, lumber hauling kids to one of the most respected teams in auto racing. Leonard tells Dale Jr. and co-host Mike Davis about early tales from their first racecar catching on fire, racing with Curtis Turner, and one-on-one match races on the beaches of Daytona. Leonard and his brothers are widely known for their innovation in the sport. He shares the story of the washing machine engine go-kart that started it all. Whether it was pulling an engine off a Ford assembly line and modifying it for stock car racing, or trick spindles, the Wood Brothers' minds always led to advancement. They even got the invite by Henry Ford to pit a car in the Indianapolis 500. So how did a bunch of Virginia stock car boys do? Well, they won the race and revolutionized the pit stop along the way. Leonard opens up about some of the best drivers they ever had in their racecars, including greats like AJ Foyt, Cale Yarborough, and David Pearson. He also reveals why the split with Pearson really happened and what regrets he has over it. The rivalry between Pearson and Richard Petty pretty much defined an era of American Stock Car racing. Dale Jr also gets the answer he was seeking from Leonard about the origins of their famed number-21 and how it came to be. He also finds out why the little race team from Stuart, Virginia has always remained loyal to the Ford Motor Company. Before Leonard entered the studio, Dale, Mike, and producer Matthew Dillner talk about losing weight and the app that helps do it. But, when counting calories... does beer count? In the Ask. Jr. segment, Dale Jr. answers fan questions about running "The Boot" at Watkins Glen and if Lewis Hamilton would entertain running Stock Cars. We also learn that Dale is a fan of terrestrial radio. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

NASCAR was only two years old the first time the Wood Brothers took to the track in 1950. 71 years later, Dale Earnhardt Jr. gets the chance to sit down with a true pioneer of the sport, the great Leonard Wood of the famed Wood Brothers Racing Team. Wood talks about his beginnings in the sport in 1950 and how they grew from some street racing, lumber hauling kids to one of the most respected teams in auto racing. Leonard tells Dale Jr. and co-host Mike Davis about early tales from their first racecar catching on fire, racing with Curtis Turner, and one-on-one match races on the beaches of Daytona.Leonard and his brothers are widely known for their innovation in the sport. He shares the story of the washing machine engine go-kart that started it all. Whether it was pulling an engine off a Ford assembly line and modifying it for stock car racing, or trick spindles, the Wood Brothers' minds always led to advancement. They even got the invite by Henry Ford to pit a car in the Indianapolis 500. So how did a bunch of Virginia stock car boys do? Well, they won the race and revolutionized the pit stop along the way.Leonard opens up about some of the best drivers they ever had in their racecars, including greats like AJ Foyt, Cale Yarborough, and David Pearson. He also reveals why the split with Pearson really happened and what regrets he has over it. The rivalry between Pearson and Richard Petty pretty much defined an era of American Stock Car racing.Dale Jr also gets the answer he was seeking from Leonard about the origins of their famed number-21 and how it came to be. He also finds out why the little race team from Stuart, Virginia has always remained loyal to the Ford Motor Company.Before Leonard entered the studio, Dale, Mike, and producer Matthew Dillner talk about losing weight and the app that helps do it. But, when counting calories... does beer count?In the Ask. Jr. segment, Dale Jr. answers fan questions about running "The Boot" at Watkins Glen and if Lewis Hamilton would entertain running Stock Cars. We also learn that Dale is a fan of terrestrial radio. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Two Hall of Famers sit-down, one who held a steering wheel, the other, held a bat. Dale Earnhardt Jr welcomes baseball legend, Chipper Jones, to the Download. . The two athletes waste no time getting to know each other. and share their interest in the other's sport. Before flashing the leather, Chipper was a huge race fan, growing up attending big races like the Daytona 500. He was even there when the King captured win number-200. The two compare coming up in the minor leagues on the diamond with striving to the top-level of NASCAR through the Xfinity Series. The Earnhardt family is known for being big Atlanta Braves fans. Chipper talks about the day Dale Sr. invited him into the hauler at the races. The big and bold Jones gets real about some of the biggest topics surrounding the sport of baseball today, including the use of foreign substances on baseballs by pitchers. He details the use of pine tar on bats and shares his true thoughts on the advantages. The former third-baseman talks about how he was able to tip pitches and shares details of his battles against pitchers like Randy Johnson and Roger Clemens. Chipper talks about his intensity on the field and off and how it translated into occasional issues such as fighting with teammates. Speaking of teammates, Jones reveals who the biggest prankster in baseball was and tells the tale of one truly disgusting prank pulled in the Braves locker room. Dale Jr. and co-host Mike Davis talk about the controversy surrounding the upcoming reconfiguration of Atlanta Motor Speedway and their take on the NASCAR drivers' very public reaction to the matter. Dale talks about what he sees in the new-and-improved Kurt Busch. Has he finally got rid of the grump? Since we had a baseball guest it was only fitting that a fan on Ask Jr presented by Xfinity brought up Dale Jr.'s big game-ending play in a charity baseball game. Dale goes down memory lane about a game he didn't even know he was going to play in. Oh... and we talk about Dale Jr.'s bright pink outfit on the NASCAR on NBC broadcast and how it sparked an unexpected "Woo!" from an old friend. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Two Hall of Famers sit-down, one who held a steering wheel, the other, held a bat. Dale Earnhardt Jr welcomes baseball legend, Chipper Jones, to the Download. . The two athletes waste no time getting to know each other. and share their interest in the other's sport. Before flashing the leather, Chipper was a huge race fan, growing up attending big races like the Daytona 500. He was even there when the King captured win number-200. The two compare coming up in the minor leagues on the diamond with striving to the top-level of NASCAR through the Xfinity Series. The Earnhardt family is known for being big Atlanta Braves fans. Chipper talks about the day Dale Sr. invited him into the hauler at the races.The big and bold Jones gets real about some of the biggest topics surrounding the sport of baseball today, including the use of foreign substances on baseballs by pitchers. He details the use of pine tar on bats and shares his true thoughts on the advantages. The former third-baseman talks about how he was able to tip pitches and shares details of his battles against pitchers like Randy Johnson and Roger Clemens. Chipper talks about his intensity on the field and off and how it translated into occasional issues such as fighting with teammates. Speaking of teammates, Jones reveals who the biggest prankster in baseball was and tells the tale of one truly disgusting prank pulled in the Braves locker room.Dale Jr. and co-host Mike Davis talk about the controversy surrounding the upcoming reconfiguration of Atlanta Motor Speedway and their take on the NASCAR drivers' very public reaction to the matter. Dale talks about what he sees in the new-and-improved Kurt Busch. Has he finally got rid of the grump?Since we had a baseball guest it was only fitting that a fan on Ask Jr presented by Xfinity brought up Dale Jr.'s big game-ending play in a charity baseball game. Dale goes down memory lane about a game he didn't even know he was going to play in.Oh... and we talk about Dale Jr.'s bright pink outfit on the NASCAR on NBC broadcast and how it sparked an unexpected "Woo!" from an old friend. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr gets an opportunity to sit down with his favorite driver of all-time, a scrappy independent NASCAR driver named Jimmy Means. Growing up as a child Dale Jr was friends with Jimmy's son Brad. While running around the track, Dale became a huge fan of Jimmy Means and still is to this day. Dale finds out so much about his hero from his humble beginnings through the dirty-fingernail journey of a weekend warrior low-budget driver and car owner in the upper ranks of racing. How humble? His racing story started as a paperboy. The Alabama driver discusses his start on the local short tracks and how he took a junkyard car to the high banks of the Daytona International Speedway. He discusses what it was like going wheel to wheel with some of the sports' biggest stars while on a sliver of the budget as the big teams. That created challenges on and off the track that included buying what he still thinks was a "hot" car, rooming 14-guys in a hotel room, sharing pit crews, and putting a racecar engine into the hauler to make it home from the track. Jimmy tells us how he got the nickname Smut in the first place and how it stuck. Jimmy opens up about his big opportunity to fill in for an ill Tim Richmond at Charlotte Motor Speedway and the disappointment that followed his one-and-done chance in top-notch equipment. Dale Jr. also reveals how emotional of a moment it was for both he and Jimmy's son. Means discusses how he filled in for Richmond but couldn't fill a certain area of his driver's suit. From that chance came real tears then relationships that helped Means along the way. He explains how Rick Hendrick, years later, was as generous of a person in the sport as any. Means towed on the road with a volunteer crew much of his racing career. That led to many fun moments and some that could've been really bad. He tells a story of a headache powder remedy gone wrong that has Dale and co-host Mike Davis in shock. Dale Jr. comes into the studio hot with a lot to talk about. Does Road America work a 4th of July replacement for Daytona? Were the cautions too long and should NASCAR make changes to lengthy road course yellows? Dale and Mike disagree about possible solutions. We also learn that Dale Jr likes "supportive emojis" and that he set off a fire alarm in his house at 1 AM. In AskJr presented by Xfinity, we get insight into what shooting an episode of Lost Speedways is like and answer fan questions about specific episodes of the Peacock TV Original show. We also learn who Dale's road racing mentors were helping him learn the nuances of left and right turns. That and a fun extra Jimmy Means story that we were able to squeak into Last Call. This episode of The Dale Jr. Download is packed full of tasty treats. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr gets an opportunity to sit down with his favorite driver of all-time, a scrappy independent NASCAR driver named Jimmy Means. Growing up as a child Dale Jr was friends with Jimmy's son Brad. While running around the track, Dale became a huge fan of Jimmy Means and still is to this day. Dale finds out so much about his hero from his humble beginnings through the dirty-fingernail journey of a weekend warrior low-budget driver and car owner in the upper ranks of racing. How humble? His racing story started as a paperboy.The Alabama driver discusses his start on the local short tracks and how he took a junkyard car to the high banks of the Daytona International Speedway. He discusses what it was like going wheel to wheel with some of the sports' biggest stars while on a sliver of the budget as the big teams. That created challenges on and off the track that included buying what he stillthinks was a "hot" car, rooming 14-guys in a hotel room, sharing pit crews, and putting a racecar engine into the hauler to make it home from the track. Jimmy tells us how he got the nickname Smut in the first place and how it stuck.Jimmy opens up about his big opportunity to fill in for an ill Tim Richmond at Charlotte Motor Speedway and the disappointment that followed his one-and-done chance in top-notch equipment. Dale Jr. also reveals how emotional of a moment it was for both he and Jimmy's son. Means discusses how he filled in for Richmond but couldn't fill a certain area of his driver's suit. From that chance came real tears then relationships that helped Means along the way. He explains how Rick Hendrick, years later, was as generous of a person in the sport as any.Means towed on the road with a volunteer crew much of his racing career. That led to many fun moments and some that could've been really bad. He tells a story of a headache powder remedy gone wrong that has Dale and co-host Mike Davis in shock.Dale Jr. comes into the studio hot with a lot to talk about. Does Road America work a 4th of July replacement for Daytona? Were the cautions too long and should NASCAR make changes to lengthy road course yellows? Dale and Mike disagree about possible solutions. We also learn that Dale Jr likes "supportive emojis" and that he set off a fire alarm in his house at 1 AM.In AskJr presented by Xfinity, we get insight into what shooting an episode of Lost Speedways is like and answer fan questions about specific episodes of the Peacock TV Original show. We also learn who Dale's road racing mentors were helping him learn the nuances of left and right turns.That and a fun extra Jimmy Means story that we were able to squeak into Last Call. This episode of The Dale Jr. Download is packed full of tasty treats. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Can you contain Clint Bowyer? Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis attempt to do so in a fun conversation with the NASCAR driver turned broadcaster. Bowyer discusses Jeff Gordon's recent departure from the NASCAR on Fox booth and looks ahead to what may be next for the network's team. He also keys in to what life working alongside a former rival was really like. Both Bowyer and Dale Jr. discuss what it is like going from the view out the front windshield of a 200mph stock car to the elevated window of a television booth and how that adjustment has gone. From production meetings, wearing suits to forgetting notes before the biggest race, Bowyer, as always, has the whole room in stitches. He even admits to some of his short-comings and a mistake his network made in not showing Dale's nostalgic Nova during the pre-race show at Darlington Raceway. What does the Kansas native think of the sport now and the direction it's headed? He shares those thoughts and more from the technical side to activation between sponsors and race fans. With his young son Cash Bowyer sitting on the studio couch, Dad opens up about racing with his little boy and shares some fun about what it's like to be alongside other racecar driver dads like Kyle Busch and Kyle Larson in the local dirt track scene. Ask Jr. gets Dale to open up about the recent premiere and excitement surrounding the launch of season two of Lost Speedways on Peacock TV. He also shares his thoughts with race fans about double-header weekends and where it may or may not work? The two-time Daytona 500 winner also speaks to the recent ramping up of the Charter market in the NASCAR Cup Series and admits how out of his range the prices have become. Oh yeah... and about that boat Dale Jr? Mike and Dale try to find middle ground about the great boat debate of 2021. They also share what had steam coming out of their ears this weekend at the track and the golf course. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Can you contain Clint Bowyer? Dale Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis attempt to do so in a fun conversation with the NASCAR driver turned broadcaster.Bowyer discusses Jeff Gordon's recent departure from the NASCAR on Fox booth and looks ahead to what may be next for the network's team. He also keys in to what life working alongside a former rival was really like. Both Bowyer and Dale Jr. discuss what it is like going from the view out the front windshield of a 200mph stock car to the elevated window of a television booth and how that adjustment has gone. From production meetings, wearing suits to forgetting notes before the biggest race, Bowyer, as always, has the whole room in stitches. He even admits to some of his short-comings and a mistake his network made in not showing Dale's nostalgic Nova during the pre-race show at Darlington Raceway.What does the Kansas native think of the sport now and the direction it's headed? He shares those thoughts and more from the technical side to activation between sponsors and race fans.With his young son Cash Bowyer sitting on the studio couch, Dad opens up about racing with his little boy and shares some fun about what it's like to be alongside other racecar driver dads like Kyle Busch and Kyle Larson in the local dirt track scene.Ask Jr. gets Dale to open up about the recent premiere and excitement surrounding the launch of season two of Lost Speedways on Peacock TV. He also shares his thoughts with race fans about double-header weekends and where it may or may not work? The two-time Daytona 500 winner also speaks to the recent ramping up of the Charter market in the NASCAR Cup Series and admits how out of his range the prices have become.Oh yeah... and about that boat Dale Jr? Mike and Dale try to find middle ground about the great boat debate of 2021. They also share what had steam coming out of their ears this weekend at the track and the golf course. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

One of the most outspoken drivers in NASCAR history lets it fly with Dale Earnhardt Jr. in part two of this much-anticipated conversation. "Mr. Excitement" Jimmy Spencer opens up to Dale Jr. and co-host Mike Davis about the big 2003 incident with fellow driver Kurt Busch that left Busch bloodied and Spencer suspended. We find out that even after 18-years, the feelings are still strong about what happened after the Michigan race. Jimmy and the gang share some laughs about junkyard races in Pennsylvania and the ultimate "No Bull" prank that Dale Earnhardt pulled on him. Dale Jr. gets Jimmy and Mike Davis to reminisce and share hilarious stories of their time working in NASCAR together from almost getting Mike fired during his first race and the time he got punched out at a Jimmy Spencer autograph session. The two long-time friends also share their favorite Henry Benfield prank stories. The conversation turns emotional when Jimmy shares details of the impact his sister – who passed from cancer – had on his life. He also reveals to Dale Jr. that he suffered many concussions that left him with broken helmets and fears the effects of the head injuries have started to surface. A once outspoken and opinionated broadcaster, Jimmy shares why he no longer is on the TV screen and what he’s been up to lately. In Ask Jr., Leah and fans get to the bottom of what it was like for Dale Jr. to host the NBC pre-race show with country superstar Brad Paisley. He also shares his thoughts on NASCAR going back to Nashville and why he may have been too critical. Dale and Mike get into a spirited debate throughout the show about their venture into buying a pontoon boat and how recent developments have Davis soured. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

One of the most outspoken drivers in NASCAR history lets it fly with Dale Earnhardt Jr. in part two of this much-anticipated conversation. "Mr. Excitement" Jimmy Spencer opens up to Dale Jr. and co-host Mike Davis about the big 2003 incident with fellow driver Kurt Busch that left Busch bloodied and Spencer suspended. We find out that even after 18-years, the feelings are still strong about what happened after the Michigan race.Jimmy and the gang share some laughs about junkyard races in Pennsylvania and the ultimate "No Bull" prank that Dale Earnhardt pulled on him. Dale Jr. gets Jimmy and Mike Davis to reminisce and share hilarious stories of their time working in NASCAR together from almost getting Mike fired during his first race and the time he got punched out at a Jimmy Spencer autograph session. The two long-time friends also share their favorite Henry Benfield prank stories.The conversation turns emotional when Jimmy shares details of the impact his sister – who passed from cancer – had on his life. He also reveals to Dale Jr. that he suffered many concussions that left him with broken helmets and fears the effects of the head injuries have started to surface. A once outspoken and opinionated broadcaster, Jimmy shares why he no longer is on the TV screen and what he’s been up to lately.In Ask Jr., Leah and fans get to the bottom of what it was like for Dale Jr. to host the NBC pre-race show with country superstar Brad Paisley. He also shares his thoughts on NASCAR going back to Nashville and why he may have been too critical.Dale and Mike get into a spirited debate throughout the show about their venture into buying a pontoon boat and how recent developments have Davis soured. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

After 20 years, it's time to clear the air. Dale Earnhardt Jr. invites former NASCAR driver and TV personality Jimmy Spencer to the studio for an interview to discuss animosity that had been under the surface for years. In the first of this two-part interview, Earnhardt opens up about the critical comments that Spencer had after Jr.'s 2001 Daytona win that raised a lot of eyebrows in the racing world. Spencer, a polarizing figure in NASCAR, opens up about his pathway from a junkyard in Pennsylvania to the pinnacle of American Motorsport. He shares never before told stories of his family roots in racing and a special relationship that led to an early peek behind the curtains of America's top racing league. Spencer reveals details about his relationship with Bill France and how he once gave Spencer 10-thousand dollars to not race at Daytona. The former NASCAR Modified Champion talks about making it to the big leagues and how big leaguers like Buddy Baker and Bobby Allison shaped his successful career. Jimmy also talks about run-ins and good times with Dale Earnhardt. Dale Jr. and his co-host Mike Davis talk about going in together on a pontoon boat, a recap of a JR Motorsports family yard sale, and their recent family camping adventures that ended in soggy memories. Ask Jr presented by Xfinity is back and so are the fan questions. From SRX to RFK, the fans spur some interesting thoughts from Dale Jr. That and more on this edition of the Dale Jr. Download. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

After 20 years, it's time to clear the air. Dale Earnhardt Jr. invites former NASCAR driver and TV personality Jimmy Spencer to the studio for an interview to discuss animosity that had been under the surface for years.In the first of this two-part interview, Earnhardt opens up about the critical comments that Spencer had after Jr.'s 2001 Daytona win that raised a lot of eyebrows in the racing world. Spencer, a polarizing figure in NASCAR, opens up about his pathway from a junkyard in Pennsylvania to the pinnacle of American Motorsport. He shares never before told stories of his family roots in racing and a special relationship that led to an early peek behind the curtains of America's top racing league. Spencer reveals details about his relationship with Bill France and how he once gave Spencer 10-thousand dollars to not race at Daytona. The former NASCAR Modified Champion talks about making it to the big leagues and how big leaguers like Buddy Baker and Bobby Allison shaped his successful career. Jimmy also talks about run-ins and good times with Dale Earnhardt.Dale Jr. and his co-host Mike Davis talk about going in together on a pontoon boat, a recap of a JR Motorsports family yard sale, and their recent family camping adventures that ended in soggy memories. Ask Jr presented by Xfinity is back and so are the fan questions. From SRX to RFK, the fans spur some interesting thoughts from Dale Jr.That and more on this edition of the Dale Jr. Download. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ward Burton – a social media darling, snake wrangler extraordinaire, southern linguistic aficionado, and one of The Dale Jr. Download’s most highly-requested guests – sits down at the table for a deep dive into his career and life with Dale Earnhardt Jr. After Ward’s brother Jeff Burton’s appearance on the show in 2019, the crew has eagerly been anticipating this conversation with Ward. Dale Jr. and co-host Mike Davis quickly learn that Jeff's episode has recently been on Ward’s mind as well. Find out what realization Ward came to with his brother ahead of this interview. The three Burton brothers experienced three completely different upbringings in South Boston, Virginia. Hear Ward’s perspective on his life as a child, why he was sent to military school and the impact their parents divorce had on each brother. Ward details where his life turned once he became an adult and how a few years later, he ended up living alone in the woods for two years. Find out where he stayed, how he ate, where he bathed, and why he finds peace outdoors. Upon his return to society, racing became an interest of Ward’s. Learn how he got into racing, why it quickly became a priority in his life and the difference between his path and Jeff’s. Hear about the night Ward beat Jeff and what that meant to the eldest Burton brother. As Ward ascended the racing ranks, he tells Dale Jr. about his late model days, moving to the Busch Series and the race at Charlotte that garnered him the attention of the sport. Hear how his first Cup Series opportunity came about and the decision behind leaving his first team to partner with Bill Davis Racing. Then Ward shares about his time driving for Bill Davis, when they peaked and what ultimately led to the team’s downfall. The two Daytona 500 winners trade memories of the emotion winning that race brought them and what it feels like in the moment. While Ward won the 2002 running, hear why he believes he would have been a player in the 2001 Daytona 500 finish and what he admits his team did to gain an advantage that day. For the first time, Dale Jr. and Ward discuss their infamous run-in at Bristol Motor Speedway in 2002. Dale first shares his side of the story and Ward recalls what was running through his mind that night. Then he provides insight into his decision not to throw his helmet and why he wishes his car restarted. Next, Ward tells Dale and Mike about getting fired from Bill Davis Racing and why his loyalty cost him a shot at other rides in the sport through the years. He shares what he learned through that experience and what he needed at that time in his career to continue racing. Then he recalls his decision to call it quits. Now Ward enjoys other endeavors in his life, including helping his son Jeb Burton grow his racing career. Ward gets deep talking about times helping Jeb brought him to tears. Lastly, he explains how racing has given his full-time life a voice. Hear why he started a conservation organization and the emotional rollercoaster he went through growing the Ward Burton Wildlife Foundation. In a special edition of Ask Jr. Presented by Xfinity, Dale takes questions from Xfinity Series drivers. Hear who asked a question, what Dale Jr. says about Matt Kenseth on and off the track, and what advice he has for young racers. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ward Burton – a social media darling, snake wrangler extraordinaire, southern linguistic aficionado, and one of The Dale Jr. Download’s most highly-requested guests – sits down at the table for a deep dive into his career and life with Dale Earnhardt Jr.After Ward’s brother Jeff Burton’s appearance on the show in 2019, the crew has eagerly been anticipating this conversation with Ward. Dale Jr. and co-host Mike Davis quickly learn that Jeff's episode has recently been on Ward’s mind as well. Find out what realization Ward came to with his brother ahead of this interview.The three Burton brothers experienced three completely different upbringings in South Boston, Virginia. Hear Ward’s perspective on his life as a child, why he was sent to military school and the impact their parents divorce had on each brother.Ward details where his life turned once he became an adult and how a few years later, he ended up living alone in the woods for two years. Find out where he stayed, how he ate, where he bathed, and why he finds peace outdoors.Upon his return to society, racing became an interest of Ward’s. Learn how he got into racing, why it quickly became a priority in his life and the difference between his path and Jeff’s. Hear about the night Ward beat Jeff and what that meant to the eldest Burton brother.As Ward ascended the racing ranks, he tells Dale Jr. about his late model days, moving to the Busch Series and the race at Charlotte that garnered him the attention of the sport. Hear how his first Cup Series opportunity came about and the decision behind leaving his first team to partner with Bill Davis Racing. Then Ward shares about his time driving for Bill Davis, when they peaked and what ultimately led to the team’s downfall.The two Daytona 500 winners trade memories of the emotion winning that race brought them and what it feels like in the moment. While Ward won the 2002 running, hear why he believes he would have been a player in the 2001 Daytona 500 finish and what he admits his team did to gain an advantage that day.For the first time, Dale Jr. and Ward discuss their infamous run-in at Bristol Motor Speedway in 2002. Dale first shares his side of the story and Ward recalls what was running through his mind that night. Then he provides insight into his decision not to throw his helmet and why he wishes his car restarted.Next, Ward tells Dale and Mike about getting fired from Bill Davis Racing and why his loyalty cost him a shot at other rides in the sport through the years. He shares what he learned through that experience and what he needed at that time in his career to continue racing. Then he recalls his decision to call it quits.Now Ward enjoys other endeavors in his life, including helping his son Jeb Burton grow his racing career. Ward gets deep talking about times helping Jeb brought him to tears. Lastly, he explains how racing has given his full-time life a voice. Hear why he started a conservation organization and the emotional rollercoaster he went through growing the Ward Burton Wildlife Foundation.In a special edition of Ask Jr. Presented by Xfinity, Dale takes questions from Xfinity Series drivers. Hear who asked a question, what Dale Jr. says about Matt Kenseth on and off the track, and what advice he has for young racers. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Former Dale Earnhardt Inc. Executive VP and GM Ty Norris sits down with Dale Earnhardt Jr. for a conversation packed with honesty and emotion about their time together at DEI and beyond. Along with co-host Mike Davis, Dale Jr. first gets into Ty’s current role as President of Trackhouse Racing. Ty explains what he has been doing to build this new team with Justin Marks and their vision for the organization. Ty shares his career path leading to his prominent roles in the sport, how he aspired to be a sports writer and worked at Dover International Speedway for years before getting an opportunity with RJ Reynolds in his first public relations role. Then he details building a relationship with Dale Sr. and how The Intimidator saved his job at one point. After RJ Reynolds, Ty explains what he learned about race team culture while working for Felix Sabates as the team’s GM – a role he said he was nowhere near qualified for. Ty served as a spotter for multiple drivers in his career but hear how his first time spotting for Kyle Petty went. Then Ty transitioned to working as a loyal lieutenant for Dale Sr. at DEI. Hear how Dale laid out his vision and what kind leader he was as Ty assisted him in building the organization. After Dale’s death in 2001, Ty explains why he described the company as splintered and who he thinks could have saved it. Dale Jr. weighs in on when he lost faith in DEI following his father’s vision. Hear the story of what Dale Jr. did when he and teammate Michael Waltrip hadn’t been paid in months and how it ultimately led to Ty’s dismissal from the organization after being offered a bad deal. Davis inquires about when Ty and Dale Jr. believe DEI was in its golden years and what made the team so successful. Ty compares the company’s trajectory to the sports rise and how that got to the team’s heads. Find out what Bill France Jr. told Ty that changed his approach to help lead the team and how it unfolded. Learn about Ty’s business relationship with Teresa Earnhardt before and after Dale Sr.’s death in 2001. Ty explains his perspective on her leadership and trust issues, and his experience working closely with her. As Dale Jr.’s spotter early in his career, Ty was on the roof for the 2001 Daytona 500. Hear about the finish from his vantage point, what he was thinking in the closing laps and what he anticipated unfolding before the unthinkable happened. The table conversation shifts to Ty’s role as EVP and GM at Michael Waltrip Racing. Ty played an integral part in the 2013 Richmond race scandal and was suspended as a result. He tells all about what happened that night, taking accountability for his actions and explaining deeper innerworkings involving many teams in that race. Hear why he thinks NASCAR had to do something after that event and his reaction to taking the harshest penalty in the sport’s history. Ty leaves us with more stories from his time at DEI. Hear why so much beer was delivered to Dale Jr.’s house. Why Dale Jr. tried to fire a guy on his team that he didn’t want to invite to a party. The time when Ty visited Dale’s house after a party one morning and the scene that he and Dale Sr. saw. Then Dale Jr. tells the story about the greatest conversation he ever had with his dad. Hear what happened when Dale Jr. wrecked at Charlotte and went home while his team fixed the car at the shop. Ty fills in details about the story that Dale Jr. didn’t remember, including hearing Dale stand up to his dad. It’s an open and honest conversation about the good, bad and ugly of Ty’s career. Both Dale and Ty tell stories of The Intimidator’s faults that show he was an imperfect human, like us all. In a special edition of Ask Jr. Presented by Xfinity, Dale Jr. fields questions from JR Motorsports employees, discussing big wins for the team, good vs. great drivers and someone’s freakish strength. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Former Dale Earnhardt Inc. Executive VP and GM Ty Norris sits down with Dale Earnhardt Jr. for a conversation packed with honesty and emotion about their time together at DEI and beyond.Along with co-host Mike Davis, Dale Jr. first gets into Ty’s current role as President of Trackhouse Racing. Ty explains what he has been doing to build this new team with Justin Marks and their vision for the organization.Ty shares his career path leading to his prominent roles in the sport, how he aspired to be a sports writer and worked at Dover International Speedway for years before getting an opportunity with RJ Reynolds in his first public relations role. Then he details building a relationship with Dale Sr. and how The Intimidator saved his job at one point.After RJ Reynolds, Ty explains what he learned about race team culture while working for Felix Sabates as the team’s GM – a role he said he was nowhere near qualified for. Ty served as a spotter for multiple drivers in his career but hear how his first time spotting for Kyle Petty went.Then Ty transitioned to working as a loyal lieutenant for Dale Sr. at DEI. Hear how Dale laid out his vision and what kind leader he was as Ty assisted him in building the organization. After Dale’s death in 2001, Ty explains why he described the company as splintered and who he thinks could have saved it. Dale Jr. weighs in on when he lost faith in DEI following his father’s vision.Hear the story of what Dale Jr. did when he and teammate Michael Waltrip hadn’t been paid in months and how it ultimately led to Ty’s dismissal from the organization after being offered a bad deal.Davis inquires about when Ty and Dale Jr. believe DEI was in its golden years and what made the team so successful. Ty compares the company’s trajectory to the sports rise and how that got to the team’s heads. Find out what Bill France Jr. told Ty that changed his approach to help lead the team and how it unfolded.Learn about Ty’s business relationship with Teresa Earnhardt before and after Dale Sr.’s death in 2001. Ty explains his perspective on her leadership and trust issues, and his experience working closely with her.As Dale Jr.’s spotter early in his career, Ty was on the roof for the 2001 Daytona 500. Hear about the finish from his vantage point, what he was thinking in the closing laps and what he anticipated unfolding before the unthinkable happened. The table conversation shifts to Ty’s role as EVP and GM at Michael Waltrip Racing. Ty played an integral part in the 2013 Richmond race scandal and was suspended as a result. He tells all about what happened that night, taking accountability for his actions and explaining deeper innerworkings involving many teams in that race. Hear why he thinks NASCAR had to do something after that event and his reaction to taking the harshest penalty in the sport’s history.Ty leaves us with more stories from his time at DEI. Hear why so much beer was delivered to Dale Jr.’s house. Why Dale Jr. tried to fire a guy on his team that he didn’t want to invite to a party. The time when Ty visited Dale’s house after a party one morning and the scene that he and Dale Sr. saw.Then Dale Jr. tells the story about the greatest conversation he ever had with his dad. Hear what happened when Dale Jr. wrecked at Charlotte and went home while his team fixed the car at the shop. Ty fills in details about the story that Dale Jr. didn’t remember, including hearing Dale stand up to his dad.It’s an open and honest conversation about the good, bad and ugly of Ty’s career. Both Dale and Ty tell stories of The Intimidator’s faults that show he was an imperfect human, like us all. In a special edition of Ask Jr. Presented by Xfinity, Dale Jr. fields questions from JR Motorsports employees, discussing big wins for the team, good vs. great drivers and someone’s freakish strength. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. welcomes his brother Kerry Earnhardt on for a long-awaited conversation at the table about Kerry’s childhood, meeting his father and living with Dale Jr. Along with co-host Mike Davis, the crew first discusses NASCAR’s inaugural weekend racing at Circuit of the Americas in Austin, Texas, and shares their opinions on racing in the rain. Hear what Dale Jr. thought about the lack of visibility the drivers faced, changes he’d like to see NASCAR make when racing in the rain and his reaction to what the drivers said afterwards. North Carolina’s governor announced a proposed plan to provide $10 million to Charlotte, Rockingham and North Wilkesboro speedways last week. Dale Jr. weighs in on his ideal vision for North Wilkesboro’s future, why it may have renewed purpose now and the shift in thinking on where NASCAR wants to race. Kerry Earnhardt then enters the studio and fills in the gaps about his childhood that Dale Jr. never knew. The eldest Earnhardt son details his family situation from a young age, when Dale Sr. left the picture and what life was like growing up with no knowledge of his other family. Hear how he found out about his Earnhardt side, how he met his grandmother and why it took so long to meet his dad in person. Learn how long it took Kerry to build up the courage to go out back of Mammaw’s house and greet his dad. Hear how the interaction went and what happened at the front door when Kerry went to see his dad and meet Dale and Kelley for the first time. Then Kerry details how his young adult life went, sharing about being too young when he first got married and had kids. He continued to grow closer to his Earnhardt side around the same time, eventually living with Dale Jr. in the doublewide trailer across from their dad’s shop. Find out what Dale did in the middle of the night that pissed Kerry off. Who caused the phone bill to be so damn high? They explain. When Kerry didn’t pay his share of a bill once, you won’t believe what Dale Jr. did and how Kerry responded. Stories about working together at the dealership start rolling next and we get both sides of the story about Dale Jr. getting fired. Plus, hear about their days racing street stocks and late models together. Find out how involved their dad was working on their cars and how much success they found on track Then Kerry details how he ascended up the racing ranks quickly, going from Concord to Daytona. Hear the legendary story of what Kerry did at Daytona one time and how Dale Jr. was relieved of his spotting duties for his brother. Plus, a special story about Kerry’s Victory Lane celebration at Pocono. As Kerry then secured an opportunity to race at Dale Earnhardt Inc., find out how it all came shockingly crashing down the night of his father’s death. Find out what Kerry has been up to since moving on from his racing career, including details about the legal battle he faced trying to use the rights to his last name with his Earnhardt Outdoors brand. The guys then crack open some cold ones to end the show and promote the launch of Kerry’s new beer. In Ask Jr. Presented by Xfinity, Dale talks about convincing Mike Helton to run his 2014 Daytona 500 winning paint scheme and answers a question about how teams will cheat given the Next Gen car. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. welcomes his brother Kerry Earnhardt on for a long-awaited conversation at the table about Kerry’s childhood, meeting his father and living with Dale Jr.Along with co-host Mike Davis, the crew first discusses NASCAR’s inaugural weekend racing at Circuit of the Americas in Austin, Texas, and shares their opinions on racing in the rain. Hear what Dale Jr. thought about the lack of visibility the drivers faced, changes he’d like to see NASCAR make when racing in the rain and his reaction to what the drivers said afterwards.North Carolina’s governor announced a proposed plan to provide $10 million to Charlotte, Rockingham and North Wilkesboro speedways last week. Dale Jr. weighs in on his ideal vision for North Wilkesboro’s future, why it may have renewed purpose now and the shift in thinking on where NASCAR wants to race.Kerry Earnhardt then enters the studio and fills in the gaps about his childhood that Dale Jr. never knew. The eldest Earnhardt son details his family situation from a young age, when Dale Sr. left the picture and what life was like growing up with no knowledge of his other family. Hear how he found out about his Earnhardt side, how he met his grandmother and why it took so long to meet his dad in person.Learn how long it took Kerry to build up the courage to go out back of Mammaw’s house and greet his dad. Hear how the interaction went and what happened at the front door when Kerry went to see his dad and meet Dale and Kelley for the first time.Then Kerry details how his young adult life went, sharing about being too young when he first got married and had kids. He continued to grow closer to his Earnhardt side around the same time, eventually living with Dale Jr. in the doublewide trailer across from their dad’s shop. Find out what Dale did in the middle of the night that pissed Kerry off. Who caused the phone bill to be so damn high? They explain. When Kerry didn’t pay his share of a bill once, you won’t believe what Dale Jr. did and how Kerry responded. Stories about working together at the dealership start rolling next and we get both sides of the story about Dale Jr. getting fired. Plus, hear about their days racing street stocks and late models together. Find out how involved their dad was working on their cars and how much success they found on trackThen Kerry details how he ascended up the racing ranks quickly, going from Concord to Daytona. Hear the legendary story of what Kerry did at Daytona one time and how Dale Jr. was relieved of his spotting duties for his brother. Plus, a special story about Kerry’s Victory Lane celebration at Pocono.As Kerry then secured an opportunity to race at Dale Earnhardt Inc., find out how it all came shockingly crashing down the night of his father’s death. Find out what Kerry has been up to since moving on from his racing career, including details about the legal battle he faced trying to use the rights to his last name with his Earnhardt Outdoors brand. The guys then crack open some cold ones to end the show and promote the launch of Kerry’s new beer.In Ask Jr. Presented by Xfinity, Dale talks about convincing Mike Helton to run his 2014 Daytona 500 winning paint scheme and answers a question about how teams will cheat given the Next Gen car. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In Part 2 of Dale Earnhardt Jr.’s conversation with championship winning crew chief Andy Petree, they dive into Petree’s time at Richard Childress Racing and his relationship with Dale Earnhardt. Before that, Dale Jr. and co-host Mike Davis cover a lot from Dale’s busy week. Dale took a long-awaited pilgrimage to Dawsonville, Georgia to interview the Elliott family. After Chase Elliott’s appearance on the Download in 2019, Dale and Mike took heat for comments made about Dawsonville. Dale clears the air, shares details about his trip and explains why he visited. It was not a happy morning in the Earnhardt household. Find out what big problems Dale came across in his home that have him stressed. He then discusses his weekend working on restoring a Nova Wagon that he posted about on social media. Find out where he got it from and what his plans are for it. Dale also made a trip to Nazareth, Pennsylvania last week to speak with Marco Andretti. Hear about his time with Marco and what peculiar passion Dale reveals. Then, a hint at what is coming soon on Lost Speedways season two. Part two of Dale and Mike’s conversation with Andy Petree picks up with Petree discussing leaving Leo Jackson and Harry Gant’s team. Hear his reason for departing, why it was one of the most difficult things he has ever had to do and what Gant revealed to him years later. Petree goes into detail about his transition to taking the ‘premiere crew chief job in the sport’ for Dale Earnhardt at Richard Childress Racing. Find out how the first meeting with Dale and Childress went and the buzzword that motivated the trio. Once at RCR, Andy shares the reaction from the team seeing him walk in and the resistance he initially faced. Early on, a ‘come to Jesus’ meeting between Dale, Richard and Andy forced the driver and crew chief to bond. Hear why they needed that and what happened later in the season when Andy brought the first car built under his direction to the race track. In 1994, Andy got to race Dale Sr.’s Busch Series car at Martinsville Speedway. Find out how the deal came together and the rival crew chief who performed the role for Petree. Both Dale Jr. and Andy were present at a test at Talladega Superspeedway in the mid-90s and both got time behind the wheel. Hear the advice Dale Sr. gave both of them and how Dale Jr. took it literally. Petree ultimately made the decision to leave the No. 3 team three years into his tenure as crew chief. Listen as he explains the one time offer he had to contemplate, the risk he was taking by leaving and if he regrets the choice he made. In his role as owner, Andy explains the challenges he faced and what ultimately happened to the organization. Then, he discusses leaving the sport for a handful of years before returning as a broadcaster. Hear how he got the opportunity and, what it was like jumping back into a competition role at Richard Childress Racing after ESPN left the sport. In Ask Jr. Presented by Xfinity, Dale shares an interesting Next Gen car analogy, talks about the deep thought he put behind joining Twitter and tells us why he wasn’t always a fan of in-car cameras. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In Part 2 of Dale Earnhardt Jr.’s conversation with championship winning crew chief Andy Petree, they dive into Petree’s time at Richard Childress Racing and his relationship with Dale Earnhardt. Before that, Dale Jr. and co-host Mike Davis cover a lot from Dale’s busy week. Dale took a long-awaited pilgrimage to Dawsonville, Georgia to interview the Elliott family. After Chase Elliott’s appearance on the Download in 2019, Dale and Mike took heat for comments made about Dawsonville. Dale clears the air, shares details about his trip and explains why he visited.It was not a happy morning in the Earnhardt household. Find out what big problems Dale came across in his home that have him stressed. He then discusses his weekend working on restoring a Nova Wagon that he posted about on social media. Find out where he got it from and what his plans are for it. Dale also made a trip to Nazareth, Pennsylvania last week to speak with Marco Andretti. Hear about his time with Marco and what peculiar passion Dale reveals. Then, a hint at what is coming soon on Lost Speedways season two.Part two of Dale and Mike’s conversation with Andy Petree picks up with Petree discussing leaving Leo Jackson and Harry Gant’s team. Hear his reason for departing, why it was one of the most difficult things he has ever had to do and what Gant revealed to him years later.Petree goes into detail about his transition to taking the ‘premiere crew chief job in the sport’ for Dale Earnhardt at Richard Childress Racing. Find out how the first meeting with Dale and Childress went and the buzzword that motivated the trio. Once at RCR, Andy shares the reaction from the team seeing him walk in and the resistance he initially faced.Early on, a ‘come to Jesus’ meeting between Dale, Richard and Andy forced the driver and crew chief to bond. Hear why they needed that and what happened later in the season when Andy brought the first car built under his direction to the race track.In 1994, Andy got to race Dale Sr.’s Busch Series car at Martinsville Speedway. Find out how the deal came together and the rival crew chief who performed the role for Petree.Both Dale Jr. and Andy were present at a test at Talladega Superspeedway in the mid-90s and both got time behind the wheel. Hear the advice Dale Sr. gave both of them and how Dale Jr. took it literally.Petree ultimately made the decision to leave the No. 3 team three years into his tenure as crew chief. Listen as he explains the one time offer he had to contemplate, the risk he was taking by leaving and if he regrets the choice he made.In his role as owner, Andy explains the challenges he faced and what ultimately happened to the organization. Then, he discusses leaving the sport for a handful of years before returning as a broadcaster. Hear how he got the opportunity and, what it was like jumping back into a competition role at Richard Childress Racing after ESPN left the sport.In Ask Jr. Presented by Xfinity, Dale shares an interesting Next Gen car analogy, talks about the deep thought he put behind joining Twitter and tells us why he wasn’t always a fan of in-car cameras. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. sits down with long-time crew chief, car owner, and broadcaster Andy Petree for part one of a conversation filled with epic tales about Petree’s rich history and innovative practices in the sport. Before Petree joins them at the table, Dale Jr. and co-host Mike Davis relive a busy weekend for Dale. First, he tells all about his trip to Darlington Raceway to pace the field with his restored Chevrolet Nova that his dad once raced. He talks about the whole experience including telling old racing stories with family during the car ride down, seeing the industry’s reaction in the garage, and what it was like getting on track. Both Dale and Mike then address the disappointment of NASCAR on FOX not showing the Nova on track. Dale Jr. fills everyone in about his trip to the Nashville Fairgrounds last Friday. He clears some things up about his future racing plans there and Speedway Motorsports’ efforts to bring NASCAR back. Hear what the Nashville community needs to know about Marcus Smith’s plans. Next, Andy Petree enters and the stories about his career in racing start rolling. He shares what initially interested him about racing and his plans to drive a car he built with a friend before a NASCAR Hall of Famer walked in and took the seat. Hear what happened next and how it set Petree’s career path. Another NASCAR Hall of Famer helped Andy get his first job in NASCAR, performing a role he had no experience in. Find out what happened and how that team ultimately won the Cup championship that year. Petree’s path then paired him with Benny and Phil Parsons. Hear what tricks he had up his sleeve when he won his first Cup race as a crew chief with Phil in 1988. Crew chiefs often search for physical advantages on the cars but mental advantages prove just as important. Listen for the stories about mind games he played with his drivers to make them believe they had an upper hand. You won’t believe the results. Andy was Harry Gant’s crew chief when he won four races in a row in 1991. Find out how the car was built differently than most. Hear what competitive advantages Gant had and the rulebook loopholes Petree attacked. Then, the story of how one ‘competitive advantage’ ultimately led Petree to take it off the car after qualifying during race weekend for fear of being caught. Part 2 of Dale Jr.’s conversation with Petree continues next week as they dive into his years working with Dale Sr. for Richard Childress Racing. In Ask Jr. Presented by Xfinity, Dale details the ride-a-longs he gave the I AM ATHLETE crew last month and their reactions. He and Mike then discuss the changes expected with the Next Gen cars. Finally, hear what Dale thinks about the potential for street course races in NASCAR.  To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. sits down with long-time crew chief, car owner, and broadcaster Andy Petree for part one of a conversation filled with epic tales about Petree’s rich history and innovative practices in the sport.Before Petree joins them at the table, Dale Jr. and co-host Mike Davis relive a busy weekend for Dale. First, he tells all about his trip to Darlington Raceway to pace the field with his restored Chevrolet Nova that his dad once raced. He talks about the whole experience including telling old racing stories with family during the car ride down, seeing the industry’s reaction in the garage, and what it was like getting on track. Both Dale and Mike then address the disappointment of NASCAR on FOX not showing the Nova on track.Dale Jr. fills everyone in about his trip to the Nashville Fairgrounds last Friday. He clears some things up about his future racing plans there and Speedway Motorsports’ efforts to bring NASCAR back. Hear what the Nashville community needs to know about Marcus Smith’s plans.Next, Andy Petree enters and the stories about his career in racing start rolling. He shares what initially interested him about racing and his plans to drive a car he built with a friend before a NASCAR Hall of Famer walked in and took the seat. Hear what happened next and how it set Petree’s career path.Another NASCAR Hall of Famer helped Andy get his first job in NASCAR, performing a role he had no experience in. Find out what happened and how that team ultimately won the Cup championship that year.Petree’s path then paired him with Benny and Phil Parsons. Hear what tricks he had up his sleeve when he won his first Cup race as a crew chief with Phil in 1988.Crew chiefs often search for physical advantages on the cars but mental advantages prove just as important. Listen for the stories about mind games he played with his drivers to make them believe they had an upper hand. You won’t believe the results.Andy was Harry Gant’s crew chief when he won four races in a row in 1991. Find out how the car was built differently than most. Hear what competitive advantages Gant had and the rulebook loopholes Petree attacked.Then, the story of how one ‘competitive advantage’ ultimately led Petree to take it off the car after qualifying during race weekend for fear of being caught.Part 2 of Dale Jr.’s conversation with Petree continues next week as they dive into his years working with Dale Sr. for Richard Childress Racing.In Ask Jr. Presented by Xfinity, Dale details the ride-a-longs he gave the I AM ATHLETE crew last month and their reactions. He and Mike then discuss the changes expected with the Next Gen cars. Finally, hear what Dale thinks about the potential for street course races in NASCAR.  To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. welcomes American badass, accomplished racer and good-time haver Bentley Warren onto the program to learn more about his colorful career on and off the race track. Ahead of the interview, Dale Jr. shares the story behind Isla receiving a go kart as a birthday gift with co-host Mike Davis and the crew. What happened after the video Amy posted stopped? Dale fills us in and details Isla’s third birthday. Plus, the guys try to figure out what to do for their wives on Mother’s Day this weekend. How did Dale end up talking with Washington Football Team’s first round draft pick Jamin Davis just a day after the team drafted him over the weekend? He tells us about that and the reason why coach Ron Rivera made Dale part of the welcoming committee. Dale also reveals some of the things he has shot it straight with team owner Dan Snyder over the years. Then Warren enters the studio to tell all about his life that’s seemingly fresh out of a movie scene. Dale shares how he came to know Bentley and his connection to the Oswego Classic. Oswego holds a special place in Warren’s heart and he explains exactly why, including a spite he had with the track for a short period of time. Most racers have scars and death-defying stories to go along with them. Bentley is no different. Hear how he was badly burned while racing an IndyCar in Argentina, what happened in the hospital afterwards and his recovery process. In a completely separate racing story, he details how he convinced a doctor to not amputate his foot. Earnhardt Jr. and Davis then dive deeper into his racing career. He discusses all the different kinds of cars he has raced and how he made it to Indianapolis Motor Speedway. Hear his reaction to walking through Gasoline Alley for the first time and seeing the car for the before taking it out onto the track and qualifying for, and competing in, the "Greatest Spectacle in Racing" twice. Bentley at one point in his life ran outlaw races illegally. Hear how he flew under the radar in these events and what ultimately happened after he got injured. No good old-school racing story is complete without some run-ins with the law. Hear about Bentley’s unique relationship with many chiefs of police, how he dragged raced an officer and why he left his Oswego Classic after party in the back of a cop car. Now, Warren runs multiple successful businesses, most notably his bar Bentley’s Saloon in Arundel, Maine. Hear why he got into business while still racing. Plus, learn about the legendary Saloon that Dale Jr. is dying to visit, what’s unique about it and Bentley’s role in the establishment. In Ask Jr. Presented by Xfinity, Dale fields questions about his plans to run an Xfinity Series race in 2021, his reaction to the Texas All-Star Race format and the time he played the role as a spotter.   To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. welcomes American badass, accomplished racer and good-time haver Bentley Warren onto the program to learn more about his colorful career on and off the race track.Ahead of the interview, Dale Jr. shares the story behind Isla receiving a go kart as a birthday gift with co-host Mike Davis and the crew. What happened after the video Amy posted stopped? Dale fills us in and details Isla’s third birthday. Plus, the guys try to figure out what to do for their wives on Mother’s Day this weekend.How did Dale end up talking with Washington Football Team’s first round draft pick Jamin Davis just a day after the team drafted him over the weekend? He tells us about that and the reason why coach Ron Rivera made Dale part of the welcoming committee. Dale also reveals some of the things he has shot it straight with team owner Dan Snyder over the years.Then Warren enters the studio to tell all about his life that’s seemingly fresh out of a movie scene. Dale shares how he came to know Bentley and his connection to the Oswego Classic. Oswego holds a special place in Warren’s heart and he explains exactly why, including a spite he had with the track for a short period of time.Most racers have scars and death-defying stories to go along with them. Bentley is no different. Hear how he was badly burned while racing an IndyCar in Argentina, what happened in the hospital afterwards and his recovery process. In a completely separate racing story, he details how he convinced a doctor to not amputate his foot.Earnhardt Jr. and Davis then dive deeper into his racing career. He discusses all the different kinds of cars he has raced and how he made it to Indianapolis Motor Speedway. Hear his reaction to walking through Gasoline Alley for the first time and seeing the car for the before taking it out onto the track and qualifying for, and competing in, the "Greatest Spectacle in Racing" twice.Bentley at one point in his life ran outlaw races illegally. Hear how he flew under the radar in these events and what ultimately happened after he got injured.No good old-school racing story is complete without some run-ins with the law. Hear about Bentley’s unique relationship with many chiefs of police, how he dragged raced an officer and why he left his Oswego Classic after party in the back of a cop car.Now, Warren runs multiple successful businesses, most notably his bar Bentley’s Saloon in Arundel, Maine. Hear why he got into business while still racing. Plus, learn about the legendary Saloon that Dale Jr. is dying to visit, what’s unique about it and Bentley’s role in the establishment.In Ask Jr. Presented by Xfinity, Dale fields questions about his plans to run an Xfinity Series race in 2021, his reaction to the Texas All-Star Race format and the time he played the role as a spotter.  To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. and his former Hendrick Motorsports crew chief Greg Ives are reunited on this episode to tell the story of how Ives made it in the sport and share previously unheard reflections on their time working together. Before Ives joins the program, Dale Jr. and co-host Mike Davis react to the weekend’s events at Talladega Superspeedway. Hear what Dale told race winner Brad Keselowski about tying his track wins record. As a known “big ass spoiler” critic, Dale weighs in on Joey Logano’s comments following his flip. What direction does he hope to see superspeedway racing go? The answer may surprise you. Isla Earnhardt will turn three-years-old this week. What birthday gift did her dad buy her that may have her making left turns soon? Hear what bug Dale may have been bitten by. Next, Ives sits down at the table and the former teammates go all the way back to his childhood. Learn about Ives’ family’s involvement in racing, when he first took an interest and how he snuck into the track as a kid. As he began racing more and finding success, college remained the goal for the Bark River, Michigan, native. Find out why he initially pursued medical school. Then he shares why his driving career didn’t work out and how falling in love with the mechanical side of racing quickly changed his plans. Dale Jr. is often asked to explain how someone can make it in racing and Ives serves as the perfect example for him to share. Hear the steps Ives took to establish himself and gain experience in the sport before getting to NASCAR. An interaction at a family reunion ultimately set Ives up for the rest of his life. He details what happened, getting a call from Hendrick Motorsports and his first interview with the organization. Then hear what he had to do to make it to Daytona in order to meet the No. 24 team during Speedweeks. Ives then talks about getting a job offer from Hendrick Motorsports and how once there, doors opened quickly and his willingness to volunteer elevated his career. He shares how he became Jimmie Johnson’s lead engineer during his five consecutive championship run and the influence Chad Knaus had on him. When Ives began contemplating his next career move, learn why he committed to staying in the HMS family and how he became a model for the working relationship between the Hendrick Cup program and JR Motorsports. Dale Jr. shares his perspective on the partnerships’ early days and where it is at today. Multiple victories and a championship with Chase Elliott later, Mr. Hendrick called Ives with his big break at the Cup level. At the request of Dale Jr., hear how Ives was selected as his next crew chief. Dale details the process behind picking a crew chief and what he was looking for after Steve Letarte left. Ives then discusses what it was like coming into the No. 88 team. When Dale suffered another concussion in 2016 and missed most of the season, Ives was thrown one of the greatest challenges of his career. He and Dale openly discuss the warning signs both of them saw and what Ives was thinking a year later when Dale decided to retire. Two weeks following Ives’ latest victory with Alex Bowman at Richmond Raceway, hear Ives discuss the ups and downs of the last three plus seasons with Bowman. They both applaud Bowman’s maturation process and the changed mindset that Ives believes is helping elevate the team. Lastly, Bowman will run a Darlington throwback scheme resembling a late model scheme Ives ran in the 90s. Hear the story behind the car, the races it ran and how Bowman shocked Ives when revealing it to him during a team meeting. In Ask Jr. Presented by Xfinity, Dale tackles topics including his thoughts on the current state of superspeedway racing and how drivers and crew chiefs study film.  To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. and his former Hendrick Motorsports crew chief Greg Ives are reunited on this episode to tell the story of how Ives made it in the sport and share previously unheard reflections on their time working together.Before Ives joins the program, Dale Jr. and co-host Mike Davis react to the weekend’s events at Talladega Superspeedway. Hear what Dale told race winner Brad Keselowski about tying his track wins record. As a known “big ass spoiler” critic, Dale weighs in on Joey Logano’s comments following his flip. What direction does he hope to see superspeedway racing go? The answer may surprise you.Isla Earnhardt will turn three-years-old this week. What birthday gift did her dad buy her that may have her making left turns soon? Hear what bug Dale may have been bitten by.Next, Ives sits down at the table and the former teammates go all the way back to his childhood. Learn about Ives’ family’s involvement in racing, when he first took an interest and how he snuck into the track as a kid.As he began racing more and finding success, college remained the goal for the Bark River, Michigan, native. Find out why he initially pursued medical school. Then he shares why his driving career didn’t work out and how falling in love with the mechanical side of racing quickly changed his plans.Dale Jr. is often asked to explain how someone can make it in racing and Ives serves as the perfect example for him to share. Hear the steps Ives took to establish himself and gain experience in the sport before getting to NASCAR.An interaction at a family reunion ultimately set Ives up for the rest of his life. He details what happened, getting a call from Hendrick Motorsports and his first interview with the organization. Then hear what he had to do to make it to Daytona in order to meet the No. 24 team during Speedweeks.Ives then talks about getting a job offer from Hendrick Motorsports and how once there, doors opened quickly and his willingness to volunteer elevated his career. He shares how he became Jimmie Johnson’s lead engineer during his five consecutive championship run and the influence Chad Knaus had on him.When Ives began contemplating his next career move, learn why he committed to staying in the HMS family and how he became a model for the working relationship between the Hendrick Cup program and JR Motorsports. Dale Jr. shares his perspective on the partnerships’ early days and where it is at today.Multiple victories and a championship with Chase Elliott later, Mr. Hendrick called Ives with his big break at the Cup level. At the request of Dale Jr., hear how Ives was selected as his next crew chief. Dale details the process behind picking a crew chief and what he was looking for after Steve Letarte left.Ives then discusses what it was like coming into the No. 88 team. When Dale suffered another concussion in 2016 and missed most of the season, Ives was thrown one of the greatest challenges of his career. He and Dale openly discuss the warning signs both of them saw and what Ives was thinking a year later when Dale decided to retire.Two weeks following Ives’ latest victory with Alex Bowman at Richmond Raceway, hear Ives discuss the ups and downs of the last three plus seasons with Bowman. They both applaud Bowman’s maturation process and the changed mindset that Ives believes is helping elevate the team.Lastly, Bowman will run a Darlington throwback scheme resembling a late model scheme Ives ran in the 90s. Hear the story behind the car, the races it ran and how Bowman shocked Ives when revealing it to him during a team meeting.In Ask Jr. Presented by Xfinity, Dale tackles topics including his thoughts on the current state of superspeedway racing and how drivers and crew chiefs study film.  To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. welcomes NFL All-Pro wide receiver Brandon Marshall onto the show for a conversation intertwining both athletes’ careers and lives after competing professionally. As two recently retired competitors, they answer whether or not they miss suiting up to play and race. Then Brandon expands upon the dynamics of playing wide receiver in the NFL and his mentality taking big hits and making big plays. What do football players compare themselves to in NASCAR? Hear the answer that surprises Dale Jr. and co-host Mike Davis. Could Brandon Marshall be on the comeback trail? He shares what position he would play if he tried to return. Plus, hear why he credits his strength that propelled him to great heights among all receivers. Life after stepping away from full-time competition is a critical juncture in an athlete’s life. Both Marshall and Earnhardt Jr. have recently faced that crossroads and emerged from it with new purpose. Brandon explains the moves he made before leaving the game that set up his post-career transition. Then, the two broadcasters touch upon what it took to make it in the TV world and how they approach criticizing their former competitors behind the microphone.   Jay Cutler threw touchdowns to Marshall when he played for both the Denver Broncos and Chicago Bears. Mike asks Brandon whether the criticism Cutler receives is fair. Marshall provides insight into working with Cutler and how he impacted his life to this day. Plus, why he thought they could have won multiple Super Bowls together in Denver. When the duo reunited in Chicago, Marshall explains why they wanted to get back together and how divine intervention played a role in leading him to the Bears. Every athlete searches for advantages in their respective sport. Dale Jr. inquires about what professional football players do with their equipment to find an edge and how playing conditions impact their performance. After being diagnosed with Borderline Personality Disorder in 2011, Brandon has been transparent about his experience in an effort to help others with mental health. He shares his story with Dale Jr., including why he initially refused help, what he was like at his worst and the breakthroughs that allowed him to stop pointing the finger at others. The 2012 Pro Bowl MVP then talks about starting House of Athlete, where he’s helping other people with their mental fitness. Plus, its specific focus of working on the mental side of being an athlete. Hear how he broke the mental health stigma in the NFL and his hopes to see it further ingrained into the professional sports environment. Next comes a question we’ve all wanted an answer to – who are the biggest $hit talkers in the NFL? Hear Brandon’s unique response and how he describes the battle between receivers and defensive backs. Brandon’s legendary 21-reception game in 2009 is still an NFL record. He shares details about that game, why he didn’t realize what he was doing and how the feat almost fell short. In Ask Jr. Presented by Xfinity, Dale suggests what Richmond Raceway could do to improve the racing and shares his favorite Office characters and moments. Plus, the story of why he missed an opportunity to visit the set.   To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. welcomes NFL All-Pro wide receiver Brandon Marshall onto the show for a conversation intertwining both athletes’ careers and lives after competing professionally.As two recently retired competitors, they answer whether or not they miss suiting up to play and race. Then Brandon expands upon the dynamics of playing wide receiver in the NFL and his mentality taking big hits and making big plays. What do football players compare themselves to in NASCAR? Hear the answer that surprises Dale Jr. and co-host Mike Davis.Could Brandon Marshall be on the comeback trail? He shares what position he would play if he tried to return. Plus, hear why he credits his strength that propelled him to great heights among all receivers. Life after stepping away from full-time competition is a critical juncture in an athlete’s life. Both Marshall and Earnhardt Jr. have recently faced that crossroads and emerged from it with new purpose. Brandon explains the moves he made before leaving the game that set up his post-career transition. Then, the two broadcasters touch upon what it took to make it in the TV world and how they approach criticizing their former competitors behind the microphone.  Jay Cutler threw touchdowns to Marshall when he played for both the Denver Broncos and Chicago Bears. Mike asks Brandon whether the criticism Cutler receives is fair. Marshall provides insight into working with Cutler and how he impacted his life to this day. Plus, why he thought they could have won multiple Super Bowls together in Denver. When the duo reunited in Chicago, Marshall explains why they wanted to get back together and how divine intervention played a role in leading him to the Bears.Every athlete searches for advantages in their respective sport. Dale Jr. inquires about what professional football players do with their equipment to find an edge and how playing conditions impact their performance. After being diagnosed with Borderline Personality Disorder in 2011, Brandon has been transparent about his experience in an effort to help others with mental health. He shares his story with Dale Jr., including why he initially refused help, what he was like at his worst and the breakthroughs that allowed him to stop pointing the finger at others.The 2012 Pro Bowl MVP then talks about starting House of Athlete, where he’s helping other people with their mental fitness. Plus, its specific focus of working on the mental side of being an athlete. Hear how he broke the mental health stigma in the NFL and his hopes to see it further ingrained into the professional sports environment. Next comes a question we’ve all wanted an answer to – who are the biggest $hit talkers in the NFL? Hear Brandon’s unique response and how he describes the battle between receivers and defensive backs. Brandon’s legendary 21-reception game in 2009 is still an NFL record. He shares details about that game, why he didn’t realize what he was doing and how the feat almost fell short. In Ask Jr. Presented by Xfinity, Dale suggests what Richmond Raceway could do to improve the racing and shares his favorite Office characters and moments. Plus, the story of why he missed an opportunity to visit the set.   To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Josh Berry won his first career NASCAR Xfinity Series race at Martinsville Speedway! Dale Earnhardt Jr. dedicates the entire show to reliving this emotional and heartfelt victory for JR Motorsports. Before Josh joins the show, Dale Jr. and co-host Mike Davis share what seeing Berry win meant to them and the company. Dale talks about Josh’s rise through the racing ranks, his success with the JRM late model program, and how the opportunity to put him in an Xfinity Series car came to fruition. Dale gets deep talking about the pressure to perform and how he handled it during his career. He shares what he learned from seeing Chase Elliott 'enjoy the opportunity' and how he thinks Berry is currently handling it. After the No. 8 car crossed the finish line on Sunday, Dale openly admits to crying tears of joy. He talks through the reasons for those emotions overflowing and makes a revelation we didn’t see coming. Then Josh joins the show and the crew hears what it has been like since capturing the biggest win of his racing career. Dale relives how he discovered Berry as a driver in a very unconventional way. Berry shares his origin story, discussing how losing his mom at a young age completely changed his life. Then how he and his dad racing helped them overcome the tragic loss. Josh shares how he ascended from racing at the local level to getting bigger opportunities. Plus, he explains how his path to this victory involved a decade of work in the shop. Find out why the 30-year-old almost gave up on his chances of making it in NASCAR last year while wrestling with big life and career decisions. Then hear how everything changed a day after coming to that realization. Six races into his Xfinity Series stint in 2021, Josh talks about feeling like a highlight reel and why he was down on himself after his crash in the grass at Atlanta Motor Speedway. Hear what he did over the off-weekends to reset and prepare for Martinsville Speedway. Mike asks Josh to breakdown the finish of the race. Hear what was going through Berry’s mind as he got passed by Ty Gibbs and how he got back around him. Then Dale tells us why he’d give the free pass to someone using the chrome horn in that situation. Dale Jr. admits that he couldn’t watch the finish to the race and talks through the emotions he was wrestling with as the checkered flag neared. Josh reminisces about his feelings in the final laps and what the victory felt like afterward. Josh sticks around for Ask Jr. Presented by Xfinity. Fans inquire about the post-race phone call between Dale and Josh, who would win in a head-to-head late model race and Dale explains his comments about JR Motorsports’ Cup Series interest.  To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Josh Berry won his first career NASCAR Xfinity Series race at Martinsville Speedway! Dale Earnhardt Jr. dedicates the entire show to reliving this emotional and heartfelt victory for JR Motorsports.Before Josh joins the show, Dale Jr. and co-host Mike Davis share what seeing Berry win meant to them and the company. Dale talks about Josh’s rise through the racing ranks, his success with the JRM late model program, and how the opportunity to put him in an Xfinity Series car came to fruition.Dale gets deep talking about the pressure to perform and how he handled it during his career. He shares what he learned from seeing Chase Elliott 'enjoy the opportunity' and how he thinks Berry is currently handling it.After the No. 8 car crossed the finish line on Sunday, Dale openly admits to crying tears of joy. He talks through the reasons for those emotions overflowing and makes a revelation we didn’t see coming.Then Josh joins the show and the crew hears what it has been like since capturing the biggest win of his racing career. Dale relives how he discovered Berry as a driver in a very unconventional way.Berry shares his origin story, discussing how losing his mom at a young age completely changed his life. Then how he and his dad racing helped them overcome the tragic loss. Josh shares how he ascended from racing at the local level to getting bigger opportunities. Plus, he explains how his path to this victory involved a decade of work in the shop.Find out why the 30-year-old almost gave up on his chances of making it in NASCAR last year while wrestling with big life and career decisions. Then hear how everything changed a day after coming to that realization.Six races into his Xfinity Series stint in 2021, Josh talks about feeling like a highlight reel and why he was down on himself after his crash in the grass at Atlanta Motor Speedway. Hear what he did over the off-weekends to reset and prepare for Martinsville Speedway.Mike asks Josh to breakdown the finish of the race. Hear what was going through Berry’s mind as he got passed by Ty Gibbs and how he got back around him. Then Dale tells us why he’d give the free pass to someone using the chrome horn in that situation.Dale Jr. admits that he couldn’t watch the finish to the race and talks through the emotions he was wrestling with as the checkered flag neared. Josh reminisces about his feelings in the final laps and what the victory felt like afterward.Josh sticks around for Ask Jr. Presented by Xfinity. Fans inquire about the post-race phone call between Dale and Josh, who would win in a head-to-head late model race and Dale explains his comments about JR Motorsports’ Cup Series interest.  To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Legendary NASCAR pit reporter Dick Berggren joins Dale Earnhardt Jr. for a conversation that covers Berggren’s racing career, rise as a journalist and pit reporter, and New England racing history preserver. It’s a special episode as Dale Earnhardt Jr. leads off the program with a big announcement, that includes Berggren himself. After sharing the exciting news, Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis reveal it’s a two-interview episode as Bill Lester joins later in the show. Berggren enters the studio as if he was fresh off of TV from pit road, wearing his iconic cap and all. He explains the story behind his hat and how Ken Squier influenced his decision to wear it. Dale Jr. first explores Berggren’s racing career. Hear how he got involved racing in his native New England and why it influenced him to get a PhD in psychology. Then hear why he pursued a job as a college professor and what happened when he brought his race car on campus once. As he transitioned to a journalism career, he details the phone call that led him to becoming Stock Car Racing magazine’s editor. He shares the story of how he helped it turn around and how it helped grow his career. Plus, he explains how he got his start in photography and what motivated him to write about racing. A magazine rivalry? Berggren shares the story of two rival publications from his early days in the sport. As the editor for the magazine, he talks about seeing Cup drivers read his work and why he took so much joy from working around his heroes in racing. One crash ended Dick’s racing career. He shares details of why seeing people everywhere while flying through the air made him quit racing forever.  How did Berggren get his start as an announcer and reporting in the pits? He explains how he got his first announcing gig at Arundel Speedway in Maine and what the Easter bunny had to do with it. Then, find out which famous Daytona 500 marked his MRN reporting debut. Hear how he developed respect and gained credibility among the characters in the garage. In a conversation surrounding racing’s legendary voices, Berggren shares his Mount Rushmore of announcers and brings Dale Jr. to broadcasting school as Dick shares his approach to the craft and makes suggestions to help Dale grow. Did Berggren ever dread an interview? Find out his answer and why it’s a name you may recognize. After leaving NASCAR on FOX, Dick channeled his passion into developing the North East Motor Sports Museum located at New Hampshire Motor Speedway. He explains why he decided to build the museum and how it all came together as a way to honor the region’s rich motorsports history. Afterwards, Bill Lester joins Dale Jr. to talk about his book “Winning in Reverse.” Bill shares his unconventional path to racing’s highest ranks, how he overcame obstacles and why he stepped out of his comfort zone in his Truck Series return last month at Atlanta Motor Speedway. In Ask Jr., Dale reacts to the rain tire test at Martinsville Speedway, Daniel Ricciardo’s special deal if he earns an F1 podium and what Marcus Smith and Marcus Lemonis may be up to.  To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Legendary NASCAR pit reporter Dick Berggren joins Dale Earnhardt Jr. for a conversation that covers Berggren’s racing career, rise as a journalist and pit reporter, and New England racing history preserver. It’s a special episode as Dale Earnhardt Jr. leads off the program with a big announcement, that includes Berggren himself. After sharing the exciting news, Earnhardt Jr. and co-host Mike Davis reveal it’s a two-interview episode as Bill Lester joins later in the show.Berggren enters the studio as if he was fresh off of TV from pit road, wearing his iconic cap and all. He explains the story behind his hat and how Ken Squier influenced his decision to wear it. Dale Jr. first explores Berggren’s racing career. Hear how he got involved racing in his native New England and why it influenced him to get a PhD in psychology. Then hear why he pursued a job as a college professor and what happened when he brought his race car on campus once. As he transitioned to a journalism career, he details the phone call that led him to becoming Stock Car Racing magazine’s editor. He shares the story of how he helped it turn around and how it helped grow his career. Plus, he explains how he got his start in photography and what motivated him to write about racing. A magazine rivalry? Berggren shares the story of two rival publications from his early days in the sport. As the editor for the magazine, he talks about seeing Cup drivers read his work and why he took so much joy from working around his heroes in racing.One crash ended Dick’s racing career. He shares details of why seeing people everywhere while flying through the air made him quit racing forever. How did Berggren get his start as an announcer and reporting in the pits? He explains how he got his first announcing gig at Arundel Speedway in Maine and what the Easter bunny had to do with it. Then, find out which famous Daytona 500 marked his MRN reporting debut. Hear how he developed respect and gained credibility among the characters in the garage. In a conversation surrounding racing’s legendary voices, Berggren shares his Mount Rushmore of announcers and brings Dale Jr. to broadcasting school as Dick shares his approach to the craft and makes suggestions to help Dale grow. Did Berggren ever dread an interview? Find out his answer and why it’s a name you may recognize. After leaving NASCAR on FOX, Dick channeled his passion into developing the North East Motor Sports Museum located at New Hampshire Motor Speedway. He explains why he decided to build the museum and how it all came together as a way to honor the region’s rich motorsports history.Afterwards, Bill Lester joins Dale Jr. to talk about his book “Winning in Reverse.” Bill shares his unconventional path to racing’s highest ranks, how he overcame obstacles and why he stepped out of his comfort zone in his Truck Series return last month at Atlanta Motor Speedway. In Ask Jr., Dale reacts to the rain tire test at Martinsville Speedway, Daniel Ricciardo’s special deal if he earns an F1 podium and what Marcus Smith and Marcus Lemonis may be up to.  To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Following the first NASCAR Cup Series dirt race in over 50 years, Speedway Motorsports Inc. CEO Marcus Smith joins Dale Earnhardt Jr. after hosting the dirt race weekend at Bristol Motor Speedway. Smith delves into many exciting projects surrounding his portfolio of race tracks including the latest on Nashville Fairgrounds Speedway, Atlanta Motor Speedway, plus promoting NASCAR’s inaugural trip to Circuit of the Americas. Dale Jr. along with co-host Mike Davis have a lot of questions about what went down in Bristol and what could be coming down the pipeline for Smith and SMI. Smith details the next-level weather challenges Bristol faced over the weekend. He explains how his team adapted and overcame the curveball Mother Nature threw at them in their first attempt to host the Cup Series on dirt. He then explains the origins of the idea of covering Bristol with dirt, why he initially turned it down, and how it eventually all came together. Plus, what lessons were learned from Bristol’s original dirt attempt in the early 2000s? He shares those and why some dirt from that track was used again. Crafting a brand-new dirt track was no easy task and Smith details the process of preparing the surface and the intricate details that made it work. Then, Dale Jr. shares his hopes for when the dirt is removed from the surface later this spring. The dirt race weekend will return in 2022 and Smith explains how that decision came together over the weekend and the unique way it was announced during Monday’s Cup race. Now a year into the pandemic, Smith reflects on the circumstances his company has faced trying to host large-scale entertainment events. He shares what he believed the pandemic taught the sport and how things will look once a sense of normalcy returns. After Dale Jr. and Smith took a trip to Nashville for a visit with the mayor, Smith explains the progress his team is making in their effort to get the contract to renovate Nashville Fairgrounds Speedway. He lays out what his plans are, how noise concerns will be addressed, and why this project will be beneficial for Music City. Marcus addresses what the future looks like for Atlanta Motor Speedway and what he hopes to see happen in the state of Georgia that hopefully could transform the speedway property. This leads to a discussion about shifting the schedule around for his speedways, why changes were made for 2021, and what could possibly change in future years. How did SMI take interest in hosting a race at Circuit of the Americas in Austin, TX? Smith explains and shares how Texas Motor Speedway reacted. Smith leaves us with some major news drops including a proposed innovation for Bristol Motor Speedway and why a favorite track of Dale Jr.’s can’t be written off quite yet. In Ask Jr. Presented by Xfinity, Dale talks about his reactions to the Bristol dirt action, testing with a radio in his race car, and his thoughts on iRacing’s Chicago Street Course.  To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Following the first NASCAR Cup Series dirt race in over 50 years, Speedway Motorsports Inc. CEO Marcus Smith joins Dale Earnhardt Jr. after hosting the dirt race weekend at Bristol Motor Speedway.Smith delves into many exciting projects surrounding his portfolio of race tracks including the latest on Nashville Fairgrounds Speedway, Atlanta Motor Speedway, plus promoting NASCAR’s inaugural trip to Circuit of the Americas.Dale Jr. along with co-host Mike Davis have a lot of questions about what went down in Bristol and what could be coming down the pipeline for Smith and SMI.Smith details the next-level weather challenges Bristol faced over the weekend. He explains how his team adapted and overcame the curveball Mother Nature threw at them in their first attempt to host the Cup Series on dirt.He then explains the origins of the idea of covering Bristol with dirt, why he initially turned it down, and how it eventually all came together. Plus, what lessons were learned from Bristol’s original dirt attempt in the early 2000s? He shares those and why some dirt from that track was used again.Crafting a brand-new dirt track was no easy task and Smith details the process of preparing the surface and the intricate details that made it work. Then, Dale Jr. shares his hopes for when the dirt is removed from the surface later this spring.The dirt race weekend will return in 2022 and Smith explains how that decision came together over the weekend and the unique way it was announced during Monday’s Cup race.Now a year into the pandemic, Smith reflects on the circumstances his company has faced trying to host large-scale entertainment events. He shares what he believed the pandemic taught the sport and how things will look once a sense of normalcy returns.After Dale Jr. and Smith took a trip to Nashville for a visit with the mayor, Smith explains the progress his team is making in their effort to get the contract to renovate Nashville Fairgrounds Speedway. He lays out what his plans are, how noise concerns will be addressed, and why this project will be beneficial for Music City.Marcus addresses what the future looks like for Atlanta Motor Speedway and what he hopes to see happen in the state of Georgia that hopefully could transform the speedway property. This leads to a discussion about shifting the schedule around for his speedways, why changes were made for 2021, and what could possibly change in future years.How did SMI take interest in hosting a race at Circuit of the Americas in Austin, TX? Smith explains and shares how Texas Motor Speedway reacted.Smith leaves us with some major news drops including a proposed innovation for Bristol Motor Speedway and why a favorite track of Dale Jr.’s can’t be written off quite yet.In Ask Jr. Presented by Xfinity, Dale talks about his reactions to the Bristol dirt action, testing with a radio in his race car, and his thoughts on iRacing’s Chicago Street Course.  To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. invites father-son duo Dave and Ryan Blaney to the table to learn more about the Blaney racing legacy and hear about Ryan’s Cup Series victory on Sunday at Atlanta Motor Speedway. First, Dale Jr. and co-host Mike Davis address an eventful Xfinity Series race for JR Motorsports in Atlanta. Commenting publicly for the first-time following Noah Gragson backing into Daniel Hemric’s car on pit road and his team’s involvement in a post-race altercation, Dale explains his stance exclusively on the Download. He shares his reaction to both cars over shooting their pit stall late in Saturday’s race and the actions each team took to complete the pit stop. Was it done intentionally? Hear what Dale thinks, what he said to Noah and how he felt hearing Gragson’s jab at Hemric after the fight. Plus, co-team owner Dale shares more insight into the 22-year-old’s approach to racing and how Noah reacts to controversial situations. This and more from Atlanta including his thoughts on Justin Allgaier’s impressive win and Josh Berry’s car being destroyed by the grass. There’s no better time to be joined by the Blaney’s than following Ryan’s first win of 2021. He shares how he enjoyed it and why the focus is shifting quicker than usual to the next cup race. Dave’s father Lou Blaney was the first Blaney to climb behind the wheel of a race car. Hear how his interest in racing started and how it blazed a trail for his family. Did you know a Blaney was drafted by the Los Angeles Lakers? Hear the story of how Dave’s brother Dale turned away from a professional basketball career to race. As a Sprint Car Hall of Fame member, Dave’s most success in racing came in a sprint car. Hear him reminisce on his biggest triumphs on the World of Outlaws tour and how the demanding schedule kept him away from home and his young children. When Ryan showed an interest in racing, Dave was ready to teach his son the ropes. However, it wasn’t always a pleasant experience. Find out how hard Dave pushed Ryan and what Ryan thought of his dad’s approach. Not every driver that races has the “it” factor. However, Ryan does and Dave noticed it early on. He tells the story of the night when he knew Ryan could make a career in racing. During his 2012 Xfinity Series debut race at Richmond, Ryan’s strong run put him on the industry’s radar. Hear what Dale noticed about him in that race and how it ended up leading to conversations and opportunities with Team Penske and Brad Keselowski. Many remember Dave leading when the 2012 Daytona 500 went under a red flag following the jet fuel fire. Dale and Dave laugh about that night and reflect on the bizarre situation, and how it almost handed Dave the victory. In his 2019 appearance on the podcast, Ryan admitted he got a speeding ticket and never told his dad. Well, he rehashes the story on this episode and we hear Dave’s reaction for the first time. What did Ryan experience after spinning Dale Jr. out at Martinsville in 2017? He shares what fans said to him leaving the track that day and Dale can’t believe it. Lastly, heading into the Bristol dirt race, the table discusses their expectations, the length of the event and track changes that fans should expect on Sunday. Dave leaves us with funny stories about what Dale Jr. and Dale Sr. have said to him after a couple of run-ins with both of them respectively. In Ask Jr. presented by Xfinity, Dale shares his experience broadcasting the 12 Hours of Sebring and why T.J. Majors is surprisingly stronger than he looks.  To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dale Earnhardt Jr. invites father-son duo Dave and Ryan Blaney to the table to learn more about the Blaney racing legacy and hear about Ryan’s Cup Series victory on Sunday at Atlanta Motor Speedway.First, Dale Jr. and co-host Mike Davis address an eventful Xfinity Series race for JR Motorsports in Atlanta. Commenting publicly for the first-time following Noah Gragson backing into Daniel Hemric’s car on pit road and his team’s involvement in a post-race altercation, Dale explains his stance exclusively on the Download.He shares his reaction to both cars over shooting their pit stall late in Saturday’s race and the actions each team took to complete the pit stop. Was it done intentionally? Hear what Dale thinks, what he said to Noah and how he felt hearing Gragson’s jab at Hemric after the fight.Plus, co-team owner Dale shares more insight into the 22-year-old’s approach to racing and how Noah reacts to controversial situations. This and more from Atlanta including his thoughts on Justin Allgaier’s impressive win and Josh Berry’s car being destroyed by the grass.There’s no better time to be joined by the Blaney’s than following Ryan’s first win of 2021. He shares how he enjoyed it and why the focus is shifting quicker than usual to the next cup race.Dave’s father Lou Blaney was the first Blaney to climb behind the wheel of a race car. Hear how his interest in racing started and how it blazed a trail for his family.Did you know a Blaney was drafted by the Los Angeles Lakers? Hear the story of how Dave’s brother Dale turned away from a professional basketball career to race.As a Sprint Car Hall of Fame member, Dave’s most success in racing came in a sprint car. Hear him reminisce on his biggest triumphs on the World of Outlaws tour and how the demanding schedule kept him away from home and his young children.When Ryan showed an interest in racing, Dave was ready to teach his son the ropes. However, it wasn’t always a pleasant experience. Find out how hard Dave pushed Ryan and what Ryan thought of his dad’s approach.Not every driver that races has the “it” factor. However, Ryan does and Dave noticed it early on. He tells the story of the night when he knew Ryan could make a career in racing.During his 2012 Xfinity Series debut race at Richmond, Ryan’s strong run put him on the industry’s radar. Hear what Dale noticed about him in that race and how it ended up leading to conversations and opportunities with Team Penske and Brad Keselowski.Many remember Dave leading when the 2012 Daytona 500 went under a red flag following the jet fuel fire. Dale and Dave laugh about that night and reflect on the bizarre situation, and how it almost handed Dave the victory.In his 2019 appearance on the podcast, Ryan admitted he got a speeding ticket and never told his dad. Well, he rehashes the story on this episode and we hear Dave’s reaction for the first time.What did Ryan experience after spinning Dale Jr. out at Martinsville in 2017? He shares what fans said to him leaving the track that day and Dale can’t believe it.Lastly, heading into the Bristol dirt race, the table discusses their expectations, the length of the event and track changes that fans should expect on Sunday.Dave leaves us with funny stories about what Dale Jr. and Dale Sr. have said to him after a couple of run-ins with both of them respectively.In Ask Jr. presented by Xfinity, Dale shares his experience broadcasting the 12 Hours of Sebring and why T.J. Majors is surprisingly stronger than he looks.  To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices