Hypercritical by Professional Awesome Racing

Latest Episodes:

EP.71 Parts Engineering Part 2 Feb 01, 2025

Show notes

Summary

In this episode of Hypercritical Radio, the hosts delve into the engineering of grassroots tech and car parts, discussing the intricacies of designing and manufacturing custom components. They explore the importance of understanding engine mounts, torque, and load and the challenges faced when swapping engines and transmissions. The conversation also touches on common issues with adapter plates and the significance of proper measurements in engineering design. Throughout the episode, the hosts share insights and experiences highlighting the complexities of automotive engineering.

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Website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠professionalawesome.com⁠⁠⁠⁠

EP.70 The Art of Designing Quality Parts Jan 17, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of Hypercritical Radio, the hosts delve into the intricacies of engineering and product design, particularly in the automotive aftermarket. They discuss the importance of thorough testing, the collaboration between engineers and mechanics, and the common pitfalls faced in the industry. The conversation emphasizes the need for iterative design, learning from mistakes, and the value of community feedback. The hosts also share personal anecdotes and insights on how to create quality parts while maintaining affordability and usability.

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Website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠professionalawesome.com⁠⁠⁠⁠

Ep.69 Track Day Essentials: What Every New Driver Should Know Dec 22, 2024

Show notes

In this episode, the hosts discuss essential preparations and modifications for new drivers heading to the racetrack. They emphasize the importance of safety gear, brake system maintenance, and the impact of driver behavior on brake performance. The conversation also covers cooling system maintenance and the significance of choosing the right tires for track performance. The hosts share personal anecdotes and insights throughout the discussion, making it a valuable resource for novice and experienced track drivers. In this conversation, the hosts discuss various aspects of modifying cars for track performance, focusing on suspension, tires, safety enhancements, and the importance of data acquisition. They debate the merits of different suspension setups, including coilovers and cup kits, and emphasize proper installation and configuration to avoid performance issues. The conversation also touches on the significance of cooling systems and aerodynamics in enhancing track performance and the importance of data acquisition tools for improving driving skills and vehicle performance.

Our Socials Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.instagram.com/professionalawesomeracing/ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Facebook Group: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.facebook.com/groups/2950472345184860 ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠professionalawesome.com⁠⁠⁠

EP.68 Navigating Mental Health in Racing Nov 15, 2024

Show notes

In this episode, Devin and Brian discuss the intersection of mental health and racing, sharing personal experiences and insights on how mental health challenges, such as ADHD, impact performance on the track. They explore strategies for managing mental health during race days, the importance of consistency in racing, and the role of support systems and sponsorships. The conversation emphasizes the need for self-reflection and personal growth and the importance of enjoying the racing process rather than solely focusing on outcomes.

Brian’s Links

Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/funwithfrozie/

This episode is presented by Fuel Lab ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.fuelab.com/ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Our Socials Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.instagram.com/professionalawesomeracing/ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Facebook Group: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.facebook.com/groups/2950472345184860 ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠professionalawesome.com⁠⁠

EP.67 The Art of Suspension: Insights from Fortune Auto Nov 04, 2024

Show notes

In this episode, Mike Lewin engages in a detailed discussion with Zack Peterson from Fortune Auto about the intricacies of suspension systems. They explore the evolution of suspension technology, the importance of proper setup, and the role of data in developing effective suspension solutions. The conversation also touches on common misconceptions in the aftermarket suspension world, the value of upgrading systems, and the engineering behind performance. Throughout the discussion, they emphasize the practical benefits of understanding the cost-benefit analysis when selecting suspension components and the modularity that allows for customization in performance vehicles, making it easier for enthusiasts to make informed decisions.

Zack’s Link

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/suspension_zack/

Fortune Auto: https://fortune-auto.com/

This episode is presented by Fuel Lab ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.fuelab.com/ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Our Socials Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.instagram.com/professionalawesomeracing/ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Facebook Group: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.facebook.com/groups/2950472345184860 ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠professionalawesome.com⁠⁠

EP.66 "I'm the idiot putting a transaxle in an S2000." Chasing Ultralight Weight w/Brook Oct 21, 2024

Show notes

Devin and Brooke Hammersmith discuss the intricacies of building a lightweight S2000 for time attack racing in this episode. They explore the philosophy behind lightweight versus power, the challenges of aftermarket parts, and the costs associated with building a competitive car. Brooke shares his journey of weight reduction techniques, the importance of community in car building, and his aspirations to compete internationally. The conversation also touches on alternative car choices and the evolution of time attack racing.

Brock’s Link

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/splin_mota/

Spleen Mota: https://www.splinmota.com/

This episode is presented by Fuel Lab ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.fuelab.com/ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Our Socials Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.instagram.com/professionalawesomeracing/ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Facebook Group: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.facebook.com/groups/2950472345184860 ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠professionalawesome.com⁠⁠

EP.65 Baseline With A Data Acquistiion System, NOW! w/ Micah McMahan Sep 13, 2024

Show notes

In this episode, Devin and Micah discuss the importance of proper oil system management, the necessity of data logging for engine health, and practical tips for hobbyist mechanics. They emphasize the significance of instrumentation and proactive measures to prevent costly engine failures. The conversation also covers incremental upgrades for building a car and the value of understanding your vehicle's systems.

Take Aways

Fuel Lab provides essential automotive performance products.
Proper oil system management can prevent engine damage.
Instrumentation is crucial for monitoring engine health.
Data logging helps identify potential issues before they escalate.
Incremental upgrades can lead to better performance without breaking the bank.
Understanding your vehicle's systems is critical to effective maintenance.
Regularly check fluid levels to avoid catastrophic failures.
Air pockets in oil systems can cause severe damage.
Investing in data acquisition can save money in the long run.
Basic mechanical knowledge is essential for hobbyists.

This episode is presented by Fuel Lab ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.fuelab.com/ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Our Socials Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.instagram.com/professionalawesomeracing/ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Facebook Group: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.facebook.com/groups/2950472345184860 ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠professionalawesome.com⁠⁠

Ep.64 "Make It Make Sense" Sponsorships With The VP of Fuelab Aug 03, 2024

Show notes

Today, Devin talks to Tanner, the Vice President of Fuelab. The conversation centers on automotive sponsorships, focusing on time attack and drifting. Key points include building long-term sponsor relationships, clear communication, marketing value of different cars, and creating engaging content. Devin and Tanner emphasize enthusiasm for brands, personable communication, and dealing with gatekeepers. They rank racing disciplines, noting off-road racing's success and challenges in grassroots time attack and autocross. The role of technology, like ECUs and tires, is also discussed. Overall, the emphasis is on creating content that resonates with the audience and provides ROI for sponsors.

This episode is presented by Fuel Lab ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.fuelab.com/ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Our Socials Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.instagram.com/professionalawesomeracing/ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Facebook Group: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.facebook.com/groups/2950472345184860 ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠professionalawesome.com⁠⁠

Ep.63 Let's Fight about Real Time Attack w/Amir From RSFuture and Kevin Burke Jul 19, 2024

Show notes

The conversation revolves around the definition and spirit of time attack in the context of different classes and rule sets. Amir argues that time attack is an engineering challenge that pushes the boundaries of car performance, while Kevin emphasizes the importance of driver development. They also touch on the perception of time attack in Japan versus the US. Amir argues that there should be a distinction between cars that are truly dedicated to time attack and those that are not. He believes that the effort and resources put into building a time attack car should be recognized and that the sport should not be diluted by including cars that do not meet the same level of preparation. Kevin, on the other hand, believes that there is room for both types of cars in the sport and that the focus should be on growing and promoting time attack as a whole. They also touch on the role of money and resources in time attack and the passion and dedication required to succeed. Kevin argues that newer cars have inherent advantages and are easier to get into, while Amir emphasizes the importance of effort, dedication, and education in building a successful time attack car

Amir’s Links

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rsfuture_amir/

RS Future: https://www.rsfuture.com/

Kevin’s Links

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_schmevin_/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@KevinBurkeRacing

This episode is presented by Fuel Lab ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.fuelab.com/ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Our Socials Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.instagram.com/professionalawesomeracing/ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Facebook Group: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.facebook.com/groups/2950472345184860 ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠professionalawesome.com⁠⁠

Ep.62 Steve Olson, Racing Motorcycles Isn’t Easy Jul 06, 2024

Show notes

Today, we had the pleasure of speaking with Steve Olson, a seasoned motorcycle racing and bike preparation professional. Steve's expertise lies in prepping motorcycles for beginners and competitive riders, and he shares some of the intricate internal work that goes into crafting a track bike. He challenges the notion of 'If it’s OEM, you better have a good reason for throwing it out' and takes us back to the 'good old days' of motorcycle racing when securing sponsors was a more straightforward task. We also delve into the fascinating speed differentials between a liter (1000cc) bike and some of the fastest cars around Gingerman and the unique challenges that motorcycle racing presents. Steve’s Links Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/solson441/ Turn One Racing: https://www.youtube.com/@KevinBurkeRacing Sportbike Tracktime: https://www.sportbiketracktime.com/ This episode is presented by Fuel Lab ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.fuelab.com/ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Our Socials Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.instagram.com/professionalawesomeracing/ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Facebook Group: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.facebook.com/groups/2950472345184860 ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠professionalawesome.com⁠⁠

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