In Wheel Time Podcast

Latest Episodes:

Exploring Car Paint: The Art and Journey with Randy Borchiding Sep 29, 2025

Show notes

Randy Borchiding's colorful journey from model car enthusiast to custom paint specialist unfolds with charm and practical wisdom. What started with Testors spray cans and a childhood model contest victory evolved into a full-fledged career creating custom colors for show-stopping vehicles.
Randy pulls back the curtain on his early days, revealing how he built his first professional paint booth using nothing more than PVC pipes, plastic sheeting, and box fans with air conditioning filters. "Don't feel like you can't accomplish something just literally in your garage because you don't have a $50,000 box," he encourages, sharing how cars painted in this humble setup went on to compete at prestigious shows like the Grand National Roaster Show.
The science behind the art proves fascinating as Randy explains the critical role of temperature in modern urethane painting. Working in environments below 50 degrees can leave paint jobs permanently sticky or mushy – a costly lesson he learned firsthand. His process for creating custom colors evolved organically from customer requests to modify OEM shades, resulting in approximately 50 signature colors that he can reproduce consistently.
Currently preparing a hot pink 1968 Roadrunner (aptly named "Ransberry") for the upcoming SEMA show, Randy shares the pressure and timeline of readying show cars for major events. His other project, a 1968 Oldsmobile convertible, demonstrates his versatility – maintaining period-correct aesthetics while incorporating modern performance with an LS3 engine disguised to look like an original Oldsmobile powerplant.
The episode also features Jeff's Motor Minute discussing NASCAR's potential horsepower increase to 750 for the 2026 season, followed by Don's enthusiastic review of the 2025 Mazda MX5 Miata Anniversary Edition. Despite having just 181 horsepower, the Miata's exceptional power-to-weight ratio delivers thrilling performance with remarkable efficiency.
Subscribe to the In Wheel Time Car Talk Show for more automotive insights, expert interviews, and honest reviews every Saturday from 10-noon Central Time on inwheeltime.com, YouTube, and Facebook.

Be sure to subscribe for more In Wheel Time Car Talk!

The Lupe' Tortilla Restaurants
Lupe Tortilla in Katy, Texas
Gulf Coast Auto Shield
Paint protection, tint, and more!
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

---- -----
Want more In Wheel Time car talk any time?
Be sure to subscribe on your favorite podcast provider for the next episode of In Wheel Time Podcast and check out our multiplatform broadcast every Saturday, 9aCT simulcasting on YouTube, Facebook, Twitter, Twitch and InWheelTime.com.
In Wheel Time Podcast can be heard on you mobile device from providers such as:
Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music Podcast, Spotify, SiriusXM Podcast, iHeartRadio podcast, TuneIn + Alexa, Podcast Addict, Castro, Castbox, YouTube Podcast and more on your mobile device.
Follow InWheelTime.com for the latest updates!
Twitter: https://twitter.com/InWheelTime
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/inwheeltime/
https://www.youtube.com/inwheeltime
https://www.Facebook.com/InWheelTime
For more information about In Wheel Time Podcast, email us at
info@inwheeltime.com

Dirt, Gravel, and Glory: The Alcan 5000 Rally Adventure Sep 26, 2025

Show notes

Mercedes and Andy Lilienthal take us on an exhilarating journey through North America's longest road rally - the Alcan 5000. Covering a staggering 5,500 miles from Seattle to Alaska, this husband-wife team pushed their 2026 Honda Passport Trail Sport to its limits across punishing terrain and secured an impressive second-place overall finish.
The conversation reveals the fascinating format of this epic adventure: daily time-speed-distance rally segments connected by long-distance travel through some of the continent's most remote regions. While competitors in the "unlimited" class relied on sophisticated rally computers, the Lilienthals triumphed in their "seat of pants" class using nothing more than a $6 calculator, a kitchen timer, and raw mathematical calculations.
Their Honda Passport proved the perfect companion, conquering approximately 900 miles of dirt and gravel without a single flat tire. The couple details how they tackled optional "extreme control" routes that earned them the "Go Farther Award," including an expedition to the Arctic Circle through mud-drenched paths and treacherous conditions that left their vehicle "caked full of mud."
Beyond the mechanical challenges, the couple shares insights into the human element of rally competition - how they navigate the pressure-cooker environment as partners, their strategies for effective communication under stress, and the camaraderie formed with competitors from around the world. With good humor, Andy admits that Mercedes "sits on the right of the car because she's always right."
Having competed in both summer and winter Alcan rallies, the Lilienthals offer perspective on the additional challenges winter brings, from survival concerns in temperatures reaching -50°F to blizzard conditions and closed highways. Their experiences highlight the remarkable resilience required when facing nature's most extreme conditions.
Whether you're a rally enthusiast, an adventure seeker, or simply curious about extraordinary automotive challenges, this conversation captures the spirit of pushing boundaries and finding joy in the journey. Follow the Lilienthals' continuing adventures through their Crankshaft Culture platforms and perhaps consider registering for the 2026 summer Alcan 5000 Rally yourself - if you dare.

Be sure to subscribe for more In Wheel Time Car Talk!

Navigating Tariff Turmoil and the 2025 Toyota Grand Highlander Review Sep 25, 2025

Show notes

Buckle up for a deep dive into the automotive industry's latest battle with tariffs that could reshape how we buy and maintain our vehicles. Automakers and suppliers have formally urged the Trump administration to reconsider unpredictable tariff expansions, warning that these policies make investing in America increasingly difficult. The financial impact? A potential $4,600 price increase per vehicle within three years, according to the Center for Automotive Research—a sobering prospect when average new car prices already hover around $50,000.
The conversation takes a personal turn as we explore the emotional versus practical considerations of keeping older vehicles. One host shares the dilemma of his daughter's beloved 2007 Ford Focus with 185,000 miles—is the sentimental value worth the maintenance costs and logistics of storing it for occasional use? This sparks a broader discussion about how consumers might adapt to rising costs, including a potential revival of salvaging parts from junkyards as repair expenses climb due to tariff-affected components.
Our Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid review showcases why this three-row SUV deserves attention despite its $52,610 starting price. With actual adults fitting comfortably in the third row (thanks to its six-inch length increase over the standard Highlander), impressive fuel economy averaging 29.7 mpg over 475 miles, and what we call "the best-looking front fascia" in Toyota's lineup, it delivers substantial value for families needing space without sacrificing efficiency. We also cover the latest automotive recalls, auction results from Hemmings, and an update on Tony Stewart's remarkable recovery after a 300+ mph NHRA crash.
Ready to join the conversation? Connect with us at info@inwheeltime.com or tune into our live broadcast every Saturday from 10 AM to noon Central Time on inwheeltime.com, YouTube, and Facebook for more automotive insights, reviews, and industry analysis.

Be sure to subscribe for more In Wheel Time Car Talk!

Leaf Peepers and Wine Sippers: Safety Helmets: '25 Grand Highlander Sep 24, 2025

Show notes

Autumn reveals a side of Texas many travelers never experience. While summer heat dominates conversations about the Lone Star State, fall transforms Texas into a wonderland of outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and natural beauty.
Our journey begins in East Texas, where maples explode with vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows that rival New England's famous foliage. The Sabine River region offers perfect fall temperatures for camping, hiking, and outdoor recreation without summer's oppressive heat. Moving westward, we explore the Texas Hill Country Wine Trail stretching from Fredericksburg to Johnson City. Fall means harvest festivals, grape stomps, and perfect weather for tasting award-winning reds and whites while enjoying weekend live music performances at numerous wineries.
For more adventurous travelers, we venture to Big Bend Country, where fall transforms an otherwise scorching landscape into a comfortable destination for hiking, river trips, and world-class stargazing. The region's International Dark Sky designation makes it perfect for witnessing the Milky Way in breathtaking clarity. Our final destination takes us to mysterious Caddo Lake on the Texas-Louisiana border, where ancient bald cypress trees draped with Spanish moss create an almost mystical autumn atmosphere perfect for kayaking and boat tours.
We also examine the fascinating evolution of racing helmet technology, from simple leather caps to today's carbon fiber and Kevlar marvels, and review the 2025 Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid, which combines impressive fuel economy with genuine three-row comfort thanks to its extended dimensions.
Whether you're planning your next road trip or simply dreaming of autumn adventures, join us to discover why fall might be the perfect season to explore Texas. What's your favorite fall destination in the Lone Star State? Share your experiences in the comments!

Be sure to subscribe for more In Wheel Time Car Talk!

Speed, Dirt, and Rivalries: Inside American Racing Culture Sep 23, 2025

Show notes

The battle between dirt and asphalt tracks, the delicate ecosystem of regional racing, and the high-stakes fall racing season take center stage in this revealing conversation with motorsports commentator Rodney Rodriguez.
As Texas transitions into fall, circle track racing enters its most exciting phase with championship battles heating up and big money events drawing competitors from across state lines. Rodriguez highlights the SuperTex 600 at Rocket Raceway Park—a minimal-rules competition offering a potential $25,000 prize—as an example of grassroots racing at its finest, where "you can damn near run anything you have" from bombers to modifieds.
Behind this excitement lurks a troubling industry trend: historic venues like Devil's Bowl Speedway closing permanently, forcing racers to travel greater distances while remaining tracks fail to coordinate effectively. The podcast reveals how personal rivalries and business pressures prevent track operators from collaborating on schedules, ultimately hurting car counts and fan attendance. As Rodriguez explains, "Tracks intentionally scheduled on top of each other...that cuts your car count down, that cuts your fan count, it divides the racers."
The conversation expands to critique both NASCAR's Next Gen car for being "too smart" and diminishing competition, and IndyCar's abbreviated season that causes the series to "fall off the map" despite having exceptional racing. These industry-wide challenges reflect a motorsport landscape at a crossroads—balancing tradition with innovation while fighting for audience attention.
Whether you're a dedicated race fan or simply curious about the culture of American motorsports, this episode offers invaluable insights into the passion, economics, and challenges shaping racing's future. Ready to experience the thrill of fall racing season? This conversation is your perfect starting line.

Be sure to subscribe for more In Wheel Time Car Talk!

Highway to Cybersecurity: Safeguarding Cars in the Digital Age Sep 22, 2025

Show notes

The digital threat landscape for the automotive industry has never been more dangerous. Legendary FBI operative and cybersecurity expert Eric O'Neill joins us to reveal how cyber attackers are targeting major manufacturers with devastating results. Right now, Jaguar Land Rover's production sits paralyzed by a ransomware attack that's already lasted three weeks with no end in sight.
These aren't isolated incidents. Just last year, a similar attack against CDK Global crippled 15,000 US dealerships, causing nearly a billion dollars in losses. What's truly alarming is how these breaches ripple through the entire automotive ecosystem - from manufacturers to suppliers to your personal data. Eric breaks down exactly how these attacks happen, why they're so difficult to prevent, and what makes the $18 trillion cybercrime industry so dangerously effective.
But it's not just corporations at risk. Eric shares chilling stories of how ordinary people fall victim to sophisticated "phishing" scams through simple text messages that evolve into friendship before turning predatory. The conversation takes a terrifying turn as he explains how elderly victims are "fattened up" before having their life savings stolen through elaborate confidence schemes.
We also explore automotive safety from a different angle with Jeff's exploration of racing helmet evolution - from simple leather caps to today's carbon fiber marvels with potential heads-up display integration. And for those seeking autumn adventures, Marrs provides some Texas fall travel tips, from the colorful foliage of Lost Maple State Natural Area to the wine trails of the Texas Hill Country.
Want to protect yourself in this digital battlefield? Eric's upcoming book "Spies, Lies and Cybercrime" teaches you to think like a spy to recognize attacks before they happen. Visit ericoneil.net to pre-order and sign up for his free weekly newsletter with essential cybersecurity tips. Your digital safety might depend on it.

Be sure to subscribe for more In Wheel Time Car Talk!

The HEMI Hideout: John Hovis Shares His Collecting Journey Sep 19, 2025

Show notes

Step into the extraordinary world of the Hemi Hideout as we chat with owner John Hovis about his remarkable journey from car enthusiast to curator of one of the most impressive automotive sanctuaries in Texas.
Surrounded by vintage neon signs and classic cars, John reveals how what began as a personal "man cave" evolved into a destination venue that now hosts everything from corporate events to weddings. His collection of 24 vehicles—half powered by legendary Hemi engines—forms the heart of this automotive paradise, but it's the community spirit that truly defines the space. Every rental fee is matched by John and donated to local charities, transforming his passion project into a force for good.
The conversation takes a fascinating turn as John explains the hideout's innovative geothermal cooling system, which uses heat exchangers submerged 21 feet deep in an on-site pond. While this eco-friendly approach might not pay for itself during his lifetime, it reflects the forward-thinking approach that permeates everything about this unique venue.
We shift gears to discuss the current state of electric vehicles in America, sharing personal experiences with charging infrastructure challenges and the practical limitations of EV ownership. Despite improvements in charging technology, our real-world stories highlight why many Americans—including dedicated car enthusiasts—remain hesitant to make the switch from gasoline to fully electric vehicles.
Whether you're fascinated by classic cars, interested in alternative energy solutions, or simply enjoy authentic conversations among passionate automotive enthusiasts, this episode offers an intimate look at how car culture continues to evolve while staying true to its roots. Tune in to experience the unique charm of the Hemi Hideout and the people who make the automotive community so special.

Be sure to subscribe for more In Wheel Time Car Talk!

The Lemon Lawyer on Navigating Lemon Laws Sep 18, 2025

Show notes

Ever wondered what happens when your brand-new dream car turns into a mechanical nightmare? Hovanes Margarian, known as "The Lemon Lawyer," pulls back the curtain on the fascinating world of automotive consumer protection law in this eye-opening conversation.
From his unique garage-turned-law-office where client vehicles undergo inspection alongside his personal collection (including a Ferrari SF90 Spider), Margarian reveals the inner workings of lemon law cases that have defined his 20-year career. With remarkable candor, he explains how manufacturers often make strategic decisions about settling claims based not just on case merit, but on their own financial timing and broader liability concerns.
The conversation delivers surprising insights that every car owner should know. Margarian explains why class action settlements frequently serve manufacturers better than consumers, offering modest compensation while extinguishing potentially valuable individual refund claims. He also shares how the timeline from claim to resolution can vary dramatically depending on a manufacturer's willingness to acknowledge defects.
Beyond legal strategies, the episode takes fascinating detours into automotive technology and history. Jeff explores car innovations directly descended from NASA's space program – from memory foam seats to anti-lock brakes – while Mike guides us through the 178-mile stretch of Route 66 that winds through Texas, highlighting iconic stops like Cadillac Ranch and the official midpoint between Chicago and Los Angeles.
Whether you're dealing with a problematic vehicle or simply fascinated by the intersection of automotive culture and consumer rights, this episode delivers valuable knowledge wrapped in entertaining conversation. Follow Hovanes on Instagram @Hovanes.Margarian_ESQ for more automotive legal insights and subscribe to hear more from the In Wheel Time team.

Be sure to subscribe for more In Wheel Time Car Talk!

Space Tech Hits the Road, Route 66 through Texas and the Lexus LX600 Sep 17, 2025

Show notes

Ever wondered why your car's technology feels so advanced? The answer might be orbiting above your head. We dive into the fascinating world where NASA innovations have transformed everyday driving experiences, from the anti-lock brakes that keep you safe to the head-up display projecting vital information onto your windshield.
These aerospace technologies weren't just adapted for automobiles—they revolutionized them. Space shuttle landing systems became the foundation for modern anti-lock braking. Fighter jet displays evolved into the windshield projections in luxury vehicles. The same composite materials that withstand the harshness of space now form lightweight, durable car components. Even your car's precise fuel injection and improved tire technology trace back to solutions originally designed for rockets and lunar rovers.
Beyond the technological marvels, we take you on a journey down the historic Route 66 through Texas. Though only 178 miles long in the Lone Star State, this stretch packs incredible attractions—from the iconic Cadillac Ranch near Amarillo to the exact midpoint between Chicago and Los Angeles in Adrian. We explore art deco architecture at the Dew Drop Inn, vintage gas stations, and the neon-lit motor courts that capture the golden era of American road trips.

We wrap up with an in-depth review of the 2025 Lexus LX 600, a $121,000 luxury SUV combining opulent features with impressive capability, including a powerful turbocharged V6 that rivals V8 performance. Want to learn more about how space exploration changed your daily drive? Email us at info@inwheeltime.com with your thoughts and questions!

Be sure to subscribe for more In Wheel Time Car Talk!

Car Dealership Discrimination Scandal, Recalls and Market Shifts Sep 16, 2025

Show notes

The automotive world still has a discrimination problem, and this episode dives deep into a shocking case that cost two Missouri dealerships $275,000 in settlement fees. When Landmark Dodge Ram and Landmark Chrysler Jeep were caught refusing to hire women for sales positions and men for office roles, the EEOC stepped in with a lawsuit that revealed disturbing practices and attitudes. Former HR employees testified that management claimed "women didn't have the respect necessary" for car sales and that training them was "a waste of time."
Beyond this central story, we tackle the automotive recall landscape, including Ford's massive 1.5 million vehicle recall for rearview camera issues affecting models from 2015-2019. Numerous other manufacturers face similar challenges, from improperly sealed windshields to potential vehicle rollaways. The industry is experiencing significant market shifts too – Stellantis has canceled its electric Ram 1500 pickup citing slowing EV demand, while Tesla's once-loyal customer base is eroding as owners defect to legacy brands.
Our popular Sold Cars Roundup guessing game delivers surprises with classic vehicles selling for unexpected prices. A 1965 Pontiac Bonneville fetched $21,000, while a 1930 Ford Model A went for just $10,000, and a 1966 Ford F100 commanded an impressive $30,450. Meanwhile, lawmakers are finally addressing the catalytic converter theft epidemic with the PART Act, requiring VINs to be stamped on these valuable components. Whether you're interested in industry ethics, market trends, or simply love classic cars, this episode offers insights that go beyond typical automotive coverage.
Ready to hear more automotive insights and entertaining discussions? Join our live show every Saturday morning and follow us on your favorite podcast platform to never miss an episode.

Be sure to subscribe for more In Wheel Time Car Talk!

Our TOPPODCAST Picks

Follow Us

Stay Connected

Related Podcasts

Links

Stay Connected