By ZECH YODER
Every race fan should subscribe to these podcasts
If you are like me, I spend a lot of time in my vehicle, whether it is driving to and from work, the gym, or just running errands. While driving or engaged in other activities such as working out or mowing the lawn, I enjoy listening to podcasts. As you might have noticed, there is a podcast (or 20) for every topic imaginable.
This week, I would like to talk about motorsports podcasts and share with you my top three in no particular order.
The Dale Jr. Download
The Dale Jr. Download is hosted by former NASCAR Cup Series driver Dale Earnhardt Jr. and Dirty Mo Media’s Mike Davis. The show airs three times per week on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday. The Tuesday show is a recap of the previous weekend of racing, the Wednesday show is a guest interview, and the Thursday show is a recap of the guest show and a look forward to the weekend in racing.
As I have expressed in previous columns, Dale Earnhardt Jr. is an invaluable asset to NASCAR. He is committed to growing the sport and puts a great deal of thought and introspection into his on-air opinions and comments. Further, given his experience as a driver, owner, TV analyst, and fan, Earnhardt Jr. is able to understand and explain issues in a way many cannot. The weekly interview session features a wide array of guests within and without motorsports, and Earnhardt Jr. has an abiding dedication to understanding the sport and his father’s legacy through every interview he conducts.
Speed Street
Speed Street is a podcast focused on the IndyCar Series that is hosted by IndyCar driver and Noblesville native Connor Daly and local comedian Joey Mulinaro. Speed Street is published once a week and features analysis of IndyCar, including insights and anecdotes from Daly’s on-track experiences.
Daly is honest and forthcoming with his analysis and opinions, providing IndyCar fans with an insider perspective of his racing experience. Mulinaro captures the fan perspective, often vocalizing the thoughts and questions of a race fan. Additionally, Speed Street features a guest segment, which has included racing drivers Josef Newgarden, Jimmie Johnson, Colton Herta, and Logan Sargeant.
Finally, as fans of motorsports, Daly and Mulinaro discuss the happenings of other major racing series such as NASCAR, Formula 1, and Daly’s cross-motorsports opportunities.
Beyond the Grid
Beyond the Grid is a weekly podcast hosted by Tom Clarkson, a prominent Formula 1 journalist, in which he conducts interviews with members of the Formula 1 community.
If you are a fan of Formula 1, Beyond the Grid is must. Clarkson’s interviews are quizzical and light-hearted. His superb preparation and pointed questions draw out intriguing answers and unexpected stories from his guests. To many Americans, myself included, the Formula 1 world is … well … quite foreign. Understanding the road to Formula 1 and the demands it places on all participants within the industry is fascinating. Two episodes I particularly enjoyed: April 6, 2022 – Nigel Mansell and Dec. 8, 2021 – Kimi Raikkonen.
Finally, my honorable mention: Door Bumper Clear, a podcast hosted by spotters from NASCAR. Crass, self-deprecating, and loud, Door Bumper Clear will likely bring a smile to your face. They have great discussions about racing, though I recommend you avoid listening to it with children.
There are many other great podcasts that I have not mentioned and some that I am unaware of. What are your top three?
Zech Yoder is a local resident, an attorney at Adler Attorneys in Noblesville, and a lifelong race fan.